How does it work?
CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser was the gold standard of resurfacing lasers for many years but had significant side effects, especially in darker skin types and in countries with intense sunlight such as Greece. In order to reduce these adverse effects, scientists “split” the laser beam into thousands of microbeams that, with the help of a high-precision scanner, scan the skin while leaving untreated areas on the surface. These untreated zones cover about 80–90% of the skin surface. In this way, the skin heals extremely quickly—within 3–5 days—without significant side effects. At the same time, the laser energy reaches deeper layers of the skin instead of being concentrated on the surface, activating fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen and elastin production, making the skin firmer and more youthful.

When and where is it applied?
Fractional CO2 Laser is ideal for facial rejuvenation, treatment of mild skin laxity of the face and neck, photoaging, fine and medium facial wrinkles, smoker’s lines, as well as for acne scars, scars in general, and stretch marks. It is also successfully used for skin laxity on the body (e.g., abdomen, thighs, arms) and in some cases of pigmentation.

How is it performed?
The treatment is carried out with the help of a topical anesthetic cream and is practically painless. The laser gradually scans the target area, creating tiny vertical treatment columns with normal skin in between. These microscopic burn columns heal rapidly while stimulating collagen and elastin production by fibroblasts, and the heat diffused to surrounding tissues promotes immediate collagen tightening.

What should I expect after the treatment?
Immediately after treatment, the skin appears red and shows tiny dots corresponding to the vertical treatment columns. During the first two hours, there is a sensation similar to sunburn. During this time, a special mixture containing a small amount of cortisone is applied to soothe the skin. Afterward, a regenerative cream is used until the skin returns to normal. Redness may last 1–3 days and can be covered with makeup. The tiny dot marks usually disappear within about 5 days. From the second day, most patients can return to daily activities with light makeup.

What should I pay attention to after the treatment?
After Fractional CO2 Laser treatment, the skin is very sensitive to sunlight. For this reason, treatments are avoided during summer months, and the use of high-SPF sunscreen is essential the rest of the year. During the first 24 hours, intense physical activity should be avoided, as sweating may cause small breakouts due to swelling of sweat glands. Hands should be kept clean when touching the face to prevent infection. If there is a history of cold sores (herpes labialis), preventive antiviral medication should be taken to avoid reactivation.

How long do the results last and how many sessions are needed?
Results are immediate due to instant collagen tightening, but true skin rejuvenation appears after about four weeks and continues to improve for 3–4 months. The number of sessions depends on the concern and the desired outcome, as effects are cumulative. On average, 2–3 treatments per year are required.