Fractional CO2 Laser — Face

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing — the gold standard in ablative skin rejuvenation. Creates thousands of microscopic treatment channels in the skin, triggering deep collagen remodelling for wrinkle reduction, scar improvement, and overall skin renewal.

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing at Bona Dea delivers the 10,600nm carbon dioxide laser wavelength — the most powerful ablative laser available for skin rejuvenation — in a fractionated pattern. Rather than ablating the entire skin surface (as in traditional full-field CO2 resurfacing), the fractional approach creates a grid of microscopic treatment zones (micro-thermal zones or MTZs), each approximately 100-300 micrometres in diameter, leaving islands of untreated skin between them. This dramatically accelerates healing while still delivering the deep collagen-remodelling stimulus that makes CO2 the benchmark for ablative rejuvenation. Each micro-column of ablated tissue extends through the epidermis and into the dermis, vaporising damaged collagen, pigment irregularities, and scar tissue while triggering a powerful wound-healing response. Over the following 4 to 12 weeks, the body replaces the treated columns with new, organised collagen — tighter, smoother, and more evenly pigmented than the tissue it replaces. A single session can produce visible improvement in fine lines, moderate wrinkles, acne scars (ice pick, boxcar, rolling), sun damage, uneven pigmentation, and overall skin texture. The treatment takes approximately 45 minutes for a full face. Topical anaesthetic is applied 30-45 minutes beforehand, and the physician may use additional nerve block injections for sensitive areas. During treatment, patients feel heat and a prickling sensation with each pass. The physician controls the depth of ablation, density of micro-columns, and energy level — adjusting these parameters for each facial zone and the patient's specific concerns. Downtime is the most significant consideration with fractional CO2. The treated skin will be red, swollen, and weeping for the first 3-5 days, with a crusting phase from days 3-7. Full re-epithelialisation (new skin closure) takes 7-10 days. Background redness may persist for 2-6 weeks depending on treatment intensity. Sun avoidance and rigorous SPF use are essential for 8-12 weeks post-treatment. Bona Dea provides detailed aftercare protocols including prescribed ointments and a follow-up schedule.