Fractional CO2 Laser Seoul & Gangnam | Pladen Skin Clinic (Sinsa·Cheongdam·Apgujeong)

Fractional CO2 Laser in Seoul, Korea

The fractional CO₂ laser uses a carbon-dioxide (CO₂) laser beam delivered in a fractional pattern: the laser forms microscopic columns of thermal damage in the skin, leaving surrounding tissue intact to accelerate healing.
It’s an ablative resurfacing treatment—meaning it removes layers of damaged skin and stimulates deep collagen renewal. Compared to non-ablative lasers, it offers more dramatic results but also requires more recovery.
Commonly used in Korea for:
Acne scars, surgical scars, texture irregularities
Enlarged pores and rough skin surface
Fine lines, wrinkles, sun-damage/pigmentation and overall skin rejuvenation

Clinics in Seoul—especially in districts like Gangnam, Apgujeong, Myeongdong—are equipped with the latest fractional CO₂ laser systems and have dermatologists experienced in international/foreigner-friendly settings.
Korea’s aesthetic medicine market emphasises high technology, detailed pre-treatment assessment (skin type, risk of pigmentation especially in Asian skin), and thorough after-care protocols.
If you’re based in Gyeonggi-do (near Seoul), logistically it’s convenient to schedule consultation, treatment and follow-up sessions without long travel.

Consultation & assessment:

The dermatologist will assess your skin condition (scar depth, texture issues, pigmentation, skin thickness, tone) and your goals.
They will explain the laser’s settings (energy, density, depth), inform you of downtime and expected outcomes.

On the day of treatment:

The area is cleaned, topical anaesthetic applied to reduce discomfort.
The fractional CO₂ laser is applied: micro‐ablative columns are made, surrounding skin remains intact to help faster healing.
Duration depends on area treated (full face vs partial zone vs targeted spots/scars) and energy settings.

After-care & recovery:

Immediately after: skin is often red, warm, maybe slightly swollen. Tiny “dots” or a grid pattern may be visible.
Over 3-7 days: peeling/flaking of skin, crusts may form, you must follow after-care strictly (no sun, no strong exfoliation).
Makeup may be possible after ~5-7 days (depending on depth).
Full effect (texture improvement, scar softening, new collagen) continues to develop over weeks to months.

Acne scars & atrophic scars: The depth and ablative nature make it one of the stronger options for texture and crater-type scars.
Enlarged pores & rough texture: The resurfacing helps the skin surface become smoother and finer.
Fine lines & wrinkles, sun damage/pigmentation: Especially for skin with cumulative sun exposure or age-related changes.
Skin rejuvenation/tightening: Though not a “lift”, the collagen remodeling contributes to firmer, more radiant skin over time.

Good candidate:

Someone with visible texture issues or scars, realistic about downtime and healing.
Someone whose main issue is skin surface/dermal irregularities rather than major skin sagging or deep structural changes.
Good general health, willing to follow after-care and avoid sun exposure.

Limitations / When to consider alternatives:

If skin laxity or heavy sagging is the main issue, a non-surgical lift (RF, ultrasound) or surgical option might be more appropriate.
If you have very dark skin tone or are prone to post-inflammatory pigmentation, extra caution is needed (Korean clinics mention this risk explicitly).
Downtime and after-care are more significant than non-ablative treatments—expect social downtime, peeling, possible crusting.

According to recent data: cost varies by area treated, severity, device used, clinic reputation. In Seoul, a full-face fractional CO₂ laser session may cost ₩300,000 to ₩700,000 KRW (approx USD 200-500) in some clinics.
Partial treatment (spot scars, small area) may cost ₩150,000 to ₩400,000 KRW.
Package deals (2-4 sessions) may bring better value especially for deeper concerns like scars.
Always ask about what’s included: consultation, anaesthetic, after-care, follow-up visits; that impacts overall cost.

Which laser device / brand is being used? (Ensure it’s a genuine fractional CO₂ system)
What are the energy settings / depth / density planned for my skin condition?
How many sessions are recommended for the concern I have (scars vs texture vs pigmentation)?
What is the expected downtime, and what does after-care entail (cooling, creams, sun avoidance)?
What are risks specific to my skin type (e.g., pigmentation, keloid scarring, prolonged redness)?
What results are realistic for my skin (age, type, concern)? Can you show before/afters of similar cases?
Is the quoted cost inclusive of everything (consultation, anaesthetic, follow-ups) or are there extra charges?
How do you handle complications (e.g., infection, delayed healing, pigmentation)?

Before treatment: Avoid heavy sun exposure/sunning for at least 2-4 weeks pre-treatment. Use sunblock, avoid tanning. (Especially important for Asian skin to reduce pigmentation risk.)
On the day: Arrive with clean face, no heavy makeup. Ask about numbing.
After treatment:
Use gentle skincare only—no harsh exfoliants, scrubs, or strong actives for planned period.
Apply high-SPF sunscreen daily (post procedure skin is more sensitive).
Do not pick at the peeling / crusting skin—let it heal naturally.
Avoid sauna/strong heat, heavy exercise (that causes sweating/heat) for initial days as advised by clinic.
Ensure good hydration, nutrition, sleep to support healing.
Expectations: You may see initial redness and flaking, then smoother skin gradually; results build over weeks to months as collagen remodels.