CO2 Fractional Laser
Controlled micro-columns of thermal injury in the skin, triggering significant collagen remodelling as it heals. One of the more powerful options for acne scarring and texture, and unlike most treatments at Aglow it involves genuine downtime.
Performed by [Name], [Qualification], [Registration number].
At a glance
| Session time | 60 to 90 minutes including numbing |
| Sessions typically needed | 3 to 5, spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart |
| Downtime | 5 to 7 days of visible redness, swelling and flaking |
| Comfort | Numbing applied. Moderate heat sensation during treatment |
| Results visible from | Week 8 onward, remodelling for up to 6 months |
| Maintenance | Reviewed after the protocol |
Who it is for
- Moderate to severe acne scarring
- Significant textural irregularity
- Deep pores
- Certain surgical or injury scars
Who it is not for
- Active acne or infection
- Keloid-prone skin
- Anyone on isotretinoin or within six months of stopping
- Anyone who cannot take a week of downtime
- Anyone unwilling to commit to strict sun avoidance and SPF for weeks afterwards
- Pregnancy
- Fresh tan or recent sun exposure
The risk we take seriously
The principal risk of ablative laser on higher-melanin skin is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which can take months to resolve. It is why settings are kept conservative, why we may recommend a pre-treatment preparation phase, and why aftercare compliance genuinely matters here more than with anything else we do.
If we do not think your skin is a good candidate, we will say so and offer microneedling instead.
Aftercare
- Follow the written protocol exactly — this is the treatment where aftercare determines the outcome
- Strict sun avoidance for 4 weeks, SPF 50 reapplied throughout
- Gentle cleanser and prescribed barrier cream only
- Do not pick, scrub or exfoliate flaking skin
- No makeup for 7 days
- No gym, steam, sauna or swimming for 7 days
- Sleep slightly elevated for the first two nights to reduce swelling
Frequently asked
How much downtime is there really?
Five to seven days. Redness and swelling for two days, rough flaking skin for three to five more. Presentable with makeup around day seven.
Does it hurt?
Numbing is applied for 45 minutes beforehand. During treatment most people describe intense heat and prickling, rating it five to six out of ten.
How many sessions will I need?
Three to five, spaced six to eight weeks apart, for scarring.
How soon will I see results?
Initial improvement around week four, with real change from week eight and collagen remodelling continuing for up to six months after the final session.
Is it safe for Indian skin?
It can be, with conservative settings, proper assessment and disciplined aftercare. The main risk is post-inflammatory pigmentation. We assess candidacy honestly and will recommend an alternative if the risk is not worth it.
What should I avoid before coming in?
Stop retinol and acids for a week. Strict sun avoidance for two weeks. No fresh tan. Tell us about all medication, particularly isotretinoin.
Related concerns
Related treatments
Results vary from person to person. Some concerns need a dermatologist rather than a Wellness treatment we'll say so at consultation.
Every visit at Aglow starts with an honest answer.
A free 15 to 30 minute skin assessment a plain explanation, a protocol and a session count whether or not you book on the day.