Ablative fractional resurfacing · Myeongdong, Seoul

CO2 fractional laser in Myeongdong, Seoul

A strong ablative fractional laser for deeper acne scars, enlarged pores and textured skin — more downtime, more remodelling per session.

Same price as locals
English-speaking team
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Laser treatment room at Umi Clinic, Myeongdong, Seoul — **2–4 sessions** Scars soften over 3–6 months

Quick answer

What is a CO2 fractional laser?

A CO2 fractional laser is an ablative fractional laser(10,600 nm) that vaporises microscopic columns of skin in a grid pattern, leaving healthy skin between them. The skin heals from these untouched bridges, producing new epidermis and a strong collagen-remodelling response that smooths scars and texture.

It is one of the most effective lasers for atrophic acne scars such as boxcar and rolling scars. Many Seoul patients combine it with subcision for tethered scars.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Yoon Jong-woo , Medical Director, Umi Clinic (Korean-licensed physician) · Updated October 2026. Results vary by person; the doctor explains risks, side effects and alternatives at consultation.

Session: 20–40 min plus numbing
Numbing: Topical cream, 45–60 min
Downtime: About 5–7 days of redness and crusting
Results: Gradual over 3–6 months
Sessions: Typically 2–4, 4–8 weeks apart
Pricing: Same price as locals

Your visit

How CO2 fractional works at Umi

Every visit is doctor-led and explained in English, from the first skin check to aftercare.

Consult & skin check
The doctor maps scar types, skin tone and healing history to set depth and density.
Numbing
Numbing cream for 45–60 minutes; cool air is used during treatment.
Fractional CO2 passes
The laser creates tiny micro-channels; deeper scars receive targeted passes.
Aftercare
Gentle cleansing, healing ointment or regeneration cream, no make-up for a few days, strict SPF.

Before & after

How CO2 fractional rebuilds scarred skin

Micro-columns of ablation trigger strong wound healing, so new collagen gradually lifts depressed scars and refines the surface.

Illustration of the mechanism — not a patient photo. Individual results vary; real before-and-after photos can be reviewed at consultation.

Days 1–7

Redness, swelling and fine crusting as micro-wounds close.

Weeks 2–4

Pinkness fades; skin looks fresher and tighter.

Months 3–6

Collagen remodelling softens scars and pores.

Is it right for you?

Who CO2 fractional suits best

Good fit if you…

Have moderate to deep atrophic acne scars
Have significant texture or enlarged pores
Can allow about a week of visible healing
Want strong results in fewer sessions

Consider another option if…

You are pregnant or breastfeeding
You used isotretinoin in the last 6 months
You have active acne, herpes or infection on the face
You tend to form keloids or have a very recent tan

Recovery & results

What to expect, step by step

Days 1–3
Redness, swelling and a warm, tight feeling; keep skin moist with the prescribed ointment.
Days 4–7
Tiny dark crusts flake off; make-up can usually resume around day 5–7.
Weeks 2–8
Pinkness gradually fades; some people get temporary darkening that is managed with care.
3–6 months
Scars and texture continue to improve; next session as advised.

FAQ

CO2 fractional questions

How long is the downtime?

Plan for about a week of redness and crusting, and a few more weeks of pinkness. Treating early in a longer Seoul stay is ideal.

Is CO2 fractional painful?

With numbing cream and cooling it is generally tolerable, felt as heat and prickling. The skin feels like a sunburn for a day or two afterwards.

Can CO2 laser cause pigmentation?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can occur, especially in darker skin or with sun exposure. Conservative settings, pre-care and strict sun protection reduce the risk.

How is it different from CO2 laser resurfacing?

Fractional treatment ablates only tiny columns, so it heals faster. Full or more aggressive resurfacing removes more skin with longer recovery.

Do foreigners pay more?

No. International patients pay the same price as local patients at Umi Clinic.

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