CO₂ FRACTIONAL LASER
Fractional laser – description of operation
The fractional CO₂ laser is a modern and highly effective method of skin rejuvenation and treatment of various imperfections. It causes a strictly controlled photothermal skin injury. The laser can work only within the epidermis (in which case the treatment is referred to as laser microdermabrasion), but it can also reach deeper layers of the dermis.
The light of the ablative CO₂ laser penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the water it contains. As a result of the photothermal reaction, the water in the tissue is rapidly heated and evaporated, creating microscopic columns within the skin. This activates a cascade of regenerative processes — collagen fibres contract and the process of replenishing the resulting micro-damage begins through the formation of new collagen fibres.
During this process, heat is also released, which damages neighbouring cells. As we age, we lose approximately 1% of the collagen in our skin each year, a process that accelerates significantly in women during and after menopause. Less collagen results in visible skin sagging, wrinkles and sun damage, while increased collagen means firmer, smoother, younger-looking skin.
The key principle of fractional laser therapy is that it does not damage the entire skin surface. Instead, it creates micro-columns of damage surrounded by healthy, intact tissue. This significantly accelerates regeneration and increases the safety of the treatment.
What is fractional CO₂ laser treatment?
Fractional CO₂ laser treatment involves spot irradiation of the skin with a laser beam, creating microscopic columns of thermal damage. Before the procedure, the skin is anaesthetised. The laser radiation is absorbed by water contained in the skin cells, leading to controlled removal of epidermal layers and stimulation of the deeper dermal layers to produce new collagen.
How to prepare for the procedure?
Proper preparation increases both safety and effectiveness:
One month before the procedure:
Avoid retinol and its derivatives (e.g. vitamin A creams, oral isotretinoin).
Avoid aggressive exfoliating treatments such as microdermabrasion or deep chemical peels.
Do not tan the skin (neither in the sun nor in a tanning bed).
One week before the procedure:
Discontinue herbs and medications that increase photosensitivity (e.g. St John’s wort, calendula).
Avoid aspirin and other anticoagulants if possible to reduce the risk of bruising.
On the day of treatment:
The skin should be clean, without make-up or creams.
If the area is hairy (e.g. men’s facial skin), gently shave just before the procedure.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will not irritate the treated area.
What does the procedure look like? Does it hurt?
Procedure:
A local anaesthetic cream is applied and left on the skin for approximately 30–40 minutes. The specialist then applies the laser handpiece and performs a series of laser shots on the selected area. Thousands of microscopic “craters” are created, surrounded by healthy tissue. Facial treatment usually takes from several to several dozen minutes (e.g. full face approx. 30 minutes). The client’s eyes are protected with special goggles.
Pain sensations:
Thanks to anaesthesia, the procedure is generally comfortable. Clients mainly feel warmth and a mild burning sensation, similar to intense sun exposure. In sensitive individuals, additional skin cooling may be used. Immediately after the laser shots, spot burning and mild discomfort may occur, but this subsides within minutes.
Immediately after the procedure:
The skin is intensely red, with possible mild swelling and pinpoint bleeding. These are normal reactions. The skin is cooled and a soothing cream is applied. Symptoms usually subside within 2–3 days, and full healing occurs within approximately one week.
How many treatments are needed?
The CO₂ laser produces visible results after a single treatment, but a series is recommended for optimal effects:
Typically 3–5 treatments at intervals of 4–6 weeks.
For standard rejuvenation (wrinkles, firming), 2–4 treatments are often sufficient.
For deeper scars or extensive stretch marks, 4–5 treatments are recommended.
The exact number is determined individually by the specialist. A booster treatment after 6–12 months may be recommended to maintain results.
When are results visible?
0–7 days: Redness and peeling occur as healing begins.
1–2 weeks: Skin becomes smoother and brighter; wrinkles and pores start to reduce.
4–6 weeks: Visible firming, more even skin tone, reduced wrinkles and scars.
3–6 months: Full collagen remodelling and final results; scars and stretch marks become significantly shallower and lighter.
Results vary depending on age, health and lifestyle.
Post-treatment care
Proper aftercare is essential:
Cooling and soothing: Use cold compresses for the first 1–2 days.
Regenerating creams: Apply recommended products with panthenol or allantoin gently.
Do not remove scabs: Allow them to fall off naturally.
Sun protection: Apply SPF 50 daily for at least 4 weeks and avoid sun exposure.
Avoid irritation: No sauna, swimming pool, hot baths or intense exercise for about a week.
Make-up: Avoid for 24 hours; then use light, preferably mineral cosmetics.
Follow-up: Attend scheduled check-ups and report any concerning symptoms.
Are the effects permanent?
The effects are long-lasting because the treatment rebuilds skin structure:
Scars: Once reduced, they do not return to their original appearance.
Stretch marks: Treated marks remain less visible permanently, although new ones may form with future skin stretching.
Wrinkles and firmness: Ageing continues, but the skin remains firmer and younger-looking for years, especially with proper care.
Indications for the procedure
Acne scars
Surgical, traumatic and self-harm scars
Skin with signs of ageing
Oily and problematic skin
Stretch marks
Contraindications
Absolute contraindications:
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Cancer and post-oncology recovery
Chronic dermatoses (e.g. psoriasis)
Retinoid therapy (topical or oral within required intervals)
Uncontrolled systemic diseases
Inability to follow post-treatment recommendations
Relative contraindications:
Controlled type 2 diabetes
Autoimmune diseases (e.g. Hashimoto’s)
Steroid therapy
Photosensitivity
After CO₂ laser treatment
Strict adherence to post-treatment recommendations is essential. Skin must be well-lubricated and protected from UV radiation. Avoid scrubs, retinol, anti-ageing products, swimming pools, saunas and jacuzzis for 4–6 weeks. Gentle cleansing and pharmacy-grade skincare are recommended.
Invitation
We invite you to Simply Beauty of Chiswick for professional CO₂ laser treatments — an effective method for skin rejuvenation and the reduction of scars, discoloration and other imperfections.
After CO₂ laser treatment
Strict adherence to post-treatment recommendations is essential. Skin must be well-lubricated and protected from UV radiation. Avoid scrubs, retinol, anti-ageing products, swimming pools, saunas and jacuzzis for 4–6 weeks. Gentle cleansing and pharmacy-grade skincare are recommended.
Invitation
We invite you to Simply Beauty of Chiswick for professional CO₂ laser treatments — an effective method for skin rejuvenation and the reduction of scars, discoloration and other imperfections.
RECOMMENDATIONS BEFORE / AFTER
CO₂ FRACTIONAL LASER
Thank you for your trust and for choosing treatments at Simply Beauty of Chiswick.
All procedures are performed by fully qualified and trained personnel. To achieve the best possible results, it is essential to prepare the skin properly before the procedure. Please read and carefully follow the recommendations below.
During the first consultation, we will explain in detail how to take daily photos of the treated area. Daily photo documentation of the healing process and progress is very important.
4 weeks before the procedure:
Stop using retinoids and vitamin A (creams, ointments, oral medications such as isotretinoin),
Avoid intensive exfoliating treatments such as microdermabrasion or deep chemical peels,
Do not tan your skin – avoid sun exposure, tanning beds and self-tanners,
If you smoke, reduce or stop smoking to improve circulation and skin regeneration.
2 weeks before the procedure:
Continue strict sun protection (SPF 50 cream every day),
Do not perform hair removal (waxing, chemical depilatories) on the treatment area,
Inform us if you are prone to cold sores – antiviral prophylaxis may be required,
Prepare post-treatment skincare products (regenerating cream, gentle cleansing gel, SPF 50 sunscreen).
1 week before the procedure:
Stop taking blood-thinning medications and supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, herbs such as St John’s wort) if approved by your doctor,
Avoid alcohol for 2–3 days before the procedure,
Keep the skin clean and avoid infections (if inflammation or cold sores appear, contact us immediately).
1 day before the procedure:
Wash the skin with a gentle cleanser; do not apply make-up or creams,
Shave the treatment area if necessary (e.g. beard in men),
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will not irritate the skin,
Eat a light meal and hydrate well,
Arrive relaxed to ensure the procedure is as comfortable as possible.
Instructions after the CO₂ Fractional Laser treatment
To ensure proper healing and achieve the best results, please follow these recommendations carefully.
Remember to take photos of the treated area every day, as explained during your consultation.
0–24 hours post-treatment:
Rest – the skin will be red, warm and swollen,
Cool the skin using cold compresses (through gauze; do not apply ice directly),
Do not touch the skin with unwashed hands; do not scratch or rub,
Do not wash the skin for the first 24 hours,
Use only the regenerating cream applied in the clinic,
Avoid sun exposure, hot baths, sauna and physical exertion,
Do not use make-up or any cosmetics other than the protective cream.
1–7 days after treatment:
Wash the skin gently twice a day using your hands and a mild, alcohol- and fragrance-free cleanser,
Apply regenerating cream 3–4 times a day or whenever the skin feels dry,
The skin will peel – do not remove scabs or flaky skin,
Apply SPF 50 every morning, even when staying indoors,
Avoid make-up for at least 5–7 days (or longer if the skin is still peeling),
Avoid swimming pools, saunas and intense physical activity for at least one week.
8–30 days after treatment:
Continue gentle skincare (cleansing, moisturising, SPF protection),
Do not use retinoids, acids or peels until the skin is fully healed,
Apply make-up only when the skin is completely healed (after 7 days or longer),
Avoid sun exposure and sunbathing for a minimum of 4 weeks,
Keep the skin well hydrated at least twice a day,
Attend a follow-up appointment after 4 weeks – we will assess the results and skin condition,
Take daily photos – they help monitor progress and allow comparison during your check-up.
Home care support – CBA system
To achieve optimal results from fractional CO₂ laser treatment, proper daily skincare is essential. At Simply Beauty of Chiswick, we offer specialist CBA (Cleanse – Balance – Apply) home care products designed specifically for skin preparation and post-laser recovery.
Recommended CBA products:
Gentle facial cleansing gels (non-irritating),
Day creams (moisturising and protective),
Night creams (regenerating),
SPF 50 sunscreens (UV protection).
Using these products before and after the procedure significantly improves skin condition, accelerates healing and minimises the risk of complications. Our specialists will help you choose the most suitable products for your skin.
