Fractional CO2 Laser in Seoul

How it works

A carbon dioxide laser (10,600 nm) vaporises microscopic columns of skin while leaving the skin between them intact. These untreated bridges speed healing, while the wounded columns trigger collagen remodelling over the following months. Depth and density are adjusted to scar type and skin tone.

Who it's for

It is commonly used for acne scars, surgical or traumatic scars, rough texture and wrinkles. It is often combined with subcision for tethered scars. People who need minimal downtime may prefer non-ablative or RF microneedling options.

What to expect at The Heal Sinsa

Every visit to The Heal Dermatology Sinsa Main Branch, on the 7th floor of Sinsa Square near Sinsa Station, starts with a 1:1 consultation with a Korean board-certified dermatologist and imaging-based skin analysis. Your doctor checks whether Fractional CO2 Laser actually suits your concern, explains alternatives honestly, and chooses conservative settings. Treatment is done in a private single room, and English or Traditional Chinese support is available on request. Before your visit, note your current medicines, skincare products, allergies and previous procedures so the doctor can plan safely. Pricing is confirmed after consultation; see pricing and payment. Availability of specific devices varies by branch – confirm at consultation.

Sessions & downtime

Sessions: often 2–4, about 4–8 weeks apart for scars
Treatment time: about 20–40 minutes plus numbing
Comfort: topical numbing is applied; heat and stinging are expected
Downtime: redness, swelling and fine crusting typically 5–10 days; pinkness can last weeks
Results: gradual collagen remodelling over about 3–6 months

Risks & who should avoid

Risks include prolonged redness, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (more common in darker or tanned skin), infection, cold sore reactivation and, rarely, scarring. Avoid during pregnancy, with active infection or active acne flares, recent isotretinoin use (discuss timing with your dermatologist), a history of keloids, or if you cannot avoid sun during healing. If you notice increasing pain, spreading redness, blistering, discharge or fever after treatment, contact the clinic promptly and read what to do if complications occur.

Planning around your trip to Seoul

Fractional CO2 needs the longest planning of the lasers: allow at least a week in Seoul after treatment for the first check and avoid flying with fresh crusting if you can. Avoid saunas and swimming during healing. Read treatment before a flight and how many days to plan, and visit international patients or getting here before you book.

How long is the downtime after fractional CO2 laser?

Most people have redness, swelling and fine crusting for about 5–10 days, depending on the depth used. Pinkness can persist for several weeks. Your dermatologist will explain wound care and when makeup and sunscreen can be resumed.

Is fractional CO2 safe for Asian skin?

It can be used in Asian skin, but post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is more likely, so conservative density, careful sun avoidance and sometimes pre-treatment skincare are used. A dermatologist will decide whether CO2 or a gentler option is more appropriate.

How many sessions are needed for acne scars?

Many people need two to four sessions spaced four to eight weeks apart, often combined with other techniques. Scars improve gradually rather than disappearing completely, and the final result is judged several months after the last session.

Treated by Korean board-certified dermatologists

At The Heal Dermatology, every consultation and procedure is performed or directly supervised by a dermatology specialist (피부과 전문의). Why board certification matters · Meet our doctors · International patient guide · All treatments

Branches: Sinsa (Main) · Jamsil · Dongdaemun · Mapo-Gongdeok

This page is general medical information and does not replace an in-person consultation. Suitability, number of sessions and results vary by individual.

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