Laser resurfacing is one of the most popular skin resurfacing treatments available in Singapore, and if you have heard of a positive fractional CO2 laser review or two, there is a reason for this. Fractional laser can treat several skin conditions including acne scars and wrinkles, it’s a great option for those looking for a long-lasting solution to their skin concerns.
What can Fractional CO2 Laser help with?
The treatment consists of a laser directed at the skin which causes micro-injuries, triggering a healing reaction and accelerating the production of collagen.
There are two types of fractional CO2 laser treatments: Ablative, which removes the top layers of tissue and requires longer downtime, and non-ablative, which is gentler, requires less downtime but has more gradual results.
Fractional CO2 lasering is proven to be effective in treating:
- Pigmentation
- Acne scars and other forms of scarring
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Age or sunspots
- Stretchmarks
- Uneven skin tone or texture
The reason fractional CO2 lasering has become such a popular treatment is down to its fantastic benefits which also include:
- Stimulating collagen production for a youthful, radiant complexion.
- Effective pigmentation and scar treatment
- Fully customisable to every individual by controlling the intensity of the treatment
How much does Fractional Laser treatments cost?
The fractional laser cost has become highly competitive in Singapore, making the treatment much more accessible. The average fractional CO2 laser session costs between $400 – $700, depending on the size of the treatment area.
When deciding to have the treatment it is important to do your research beforehand. Read online clinic reviews and find out the qualifications of the aesthetic doctor you are considering choosing.
When you have made your choice, ensure you have a consultation and speak openly to your doctor about your goals and expectations for the treatment. This will help them determine the right treatment plan for you.
What are the results like?
There are a lot of factors which impact how long it takes to see results for each individual.
With ablative lasering (the more intense of the two) you will see some results as soon as your skin heals – this can take up to 2 weeks but allow 3 to 6 months to see the full effects. If you opt for the more gentle, non-ablative laser, you will require multiple treatments before seeing a significant improvement to your skin.
To maintain the results, visit your aesthetic doctor regularly. Further treatments may be recommended to complement your anti-ageing or acne scar treatments to give you firmer, bouncier and radiant-looking skin.
What reviews are saying about Fractional CO2 Laser
“Fractional CO2 lasering is a game-changer when it comes to treating scarring and pigmentation.”
“The procedure is fantastic! It has reduced my wrinkles and has left my skin looking much younger.”
“I feel fabulous and love the results on my acne scars – it’s the best investment I’ve made.”
Final thoughts
Fractional CO2 lasering is just one of the many laser treatment options for acne scars in Singapore that can improve a whole range of skin conditions. From IPL to pulsed dye lasers, each treatment has different specialities. The fastest way to work out which laser resurfacing treatment is best for you is to book a consultation with a reputable aesthetic doctor who will give you their recommendations to help you achieve your skin goals.
Looking for an aesthetic doctor for your acne scars? Schedule an appointment with any doctor on our list of aesthetic doctors in Singapore to find one that is compatible with you.
What to Expect During a Fractional CO2 Laser Session
Understanding what happens during a fractional CO2 laser session helps set realistic expectations and reduces anxiety before your first appointment. Here is a step-by-step overview of a typical treatment visit:
- Consultation and assessment: Your doctor will examine your skin, confirm your scar type and skin tone, and discuss expected outcomes, downtime, and risks. Photos are usually taken for before-and-after comparison.
- Numbing cream application: A topical anaesthetic cream is applied to the treatment area and left for 30 to 45 minutes. This significantly reduces discomfort during the procedure.
- Laser treatment: The doctor passes the fractional CO2 handpiece across the skin in a grid pattern. Each pass takes a few minutes depending on the treatment area size. You will feel a warm, prickling sensation despite the numbing cream.
- Immediate aftercare: A cooling gel or soothing mask is applied to calm the skin. The doctor will advise on post-treatment skincare and sun protection.
- Discharge: You will leave the clinic with reddened skin — similar in appearance to moderate sunburn. This is normal and expected.
The entire session typically takes 60 to 90 minutes including numbing time. The laser treatment itself is usually 15 to 30 minutes depending on the size of the area treated.
Who is a Good Candidate for Fractional CO2 Laser?
Fractional CO2 laser works best for patients with atrophic acne scars — particularly rolling scars and boxcar scars — on lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–IV). It is generally not recommended for very dark skin tones due to the elevated risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Good candidates are those who can commit to the post-treatment downtime (5 to 10 days of redness and peeling for ablative treatment), are not currently on isotretinoin, have no active breakouts in the treatment area, and have realistic expectations about progressive improvement over multiple sessions rather than a single dramatic result.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fractional CO2 Laser in Singapore
How many fractional CO2 laser sessions will I need?
Most patients require 3 to 5 sessions spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart. The exact number depends on the depth and density of your acne scars, your skin’s healing response, and the laser settings used. Your doctor will reassess after each session and advise whether additional treatment is warranted. Lighter scarring may show significant improvement in 2 to 3 sessions, while deep or widespread scarring may benefit from 5 to 6 rounds.
Is fractional CO2 laser safe for Asian skin?
Fractional CO2 laser can be used safely on Asian skin tones, but requires careful calibration of laser parameters to minimise the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Experienced doctors in Singapore are well-versed in treating Asian skin with fractional lasers and typically use conservative settings with longer recovery intervals between sessions. Non-ablative fractional CO2 variants carry a lower PIH risk and may be preferred for medium to darker skin tones.
Can I combine fractional CO2 laser with other treatments?
Yes — combination therapy is commonly used in Singapore for acne scars. Fractional CO2 laser is frequently paired with subcision (to release tethered scar tissue), dermal fillers (to add volume under depressed scars), or pico laser (to address residual pigmentation). Your doctor will design a sequenced protocol based on your specific scar types. Combination approaches often deliver better results than any single treatment alone.
What is the downtime after fractional CO2 laser?
Ablative fractional CO2 laser typically involves 5 to 10 days of visible downtime — redness, swelling, and skin peeling. Most people are comfortable returning to work after 7 days, provided they can tolerate wearing minimal makeup. Non-ablative variants have shorter downtime of 2 to 3 days. During recovery, keep the skin moisturised, avoid sun exposure, and use SPF 50 every morning once the initial healing phase has passed.
How to Prepare for Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment
Good preparation improves outcomes and reduces the risk of complications. Follow these steps in the weeks before your treatment:
- Stop isotretinoin: If you are on or have recently completed a course of oral isotretinoin (Accutane), inform your doctor. Most doctors require a waiting period of 6 to 12 months after finishing isotretinoin before performing ablative laser treatments.
- Avoid sun exposure: In the 2 to 4 weeks before treatment, minimise sun exposure and apply SPF 50 daily. Tanned or sun-damaged skin is at higher risk of hyperpigmentation and uneven healing.
- Stop active skincare ingredients: Discontinue retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and other exfoliants at least one week before your session to reduce skin sensitivity.
- Avoid waxing and threading: Do not wax, thread, or use depilatory creams on the treatment area for at least two weeks beforehand.
- Arrange for downtime: Plan your treatment around your schedule. Most people take 5 to 7 days off social or professional commitments for ablative fractional CO2 treatment. Book your session before a long weekend if possible.
Post-Treatment Care: How to Maximise Your Results
The healing phase after fractional CO2 laser is as important as the treatment itself. How you care for your skin during recovery directly affects your results.
- Keep skin moisturised: Apply a bland, fragrance-free moisturiser every few hours during the first 3 to 5 days. Keeping the skin moist during the peeling phase reduces discomfort and supports faster healing.
- Do not pick at peeling skin: The skin will naturally shed over 5 to 7 days. Picking accelerates scarring and risks infection. Let the skin exfoliate on its own schedule.
- Use SPF 50 every morning: Sun protection is critical from day 7 onwards once the initial crust has resolved. UV exposure on healing laser-treated skin dramatically increases hyperpigmentation risk.
- Avoid heat and sweat: Skip the gym, saunas, steam rooms, and hot showers for the first week. Heat increases swelling and prolongs redness.
- Reintroduce actives gradually: Wait until your doctor gives the all-clear before reintroducing retinoids, vitamin C, or exfoliants — usually after 2 to 3 weeks.
How long before I see the final results of fractional CO2 laser?
Surface skin texture improves within 2 to 4 weeks as the healing skin reveals a smoother surface. However, the deeper benefit of fractional CO2 laser — collagen remodelling and dermal restructuring — continues for 3 to 6 months after each session. Most patients see their best results at the 3-month mark after completing their final session. Taking consistent before-and-after photos at each visit helps track progressive improvement that can be difficult to see day-to-day.
Is fractional CO2 laser better than pico laser for acne scars?
They work differently and often complement each other. Fractional CO2 laser creates controlled micro-ablations that physically resurface the skin and stimulate deep collagen production — it is most effective for atrophic scars with significant depth. Pico laser uses ultra-short energy pulses to shatter pigment and stimulate collagen without ablating the skin surface — it is better suited for pigmentation, shallow textural issues, and patients who cannot afford downtime. Many doctors in Singapore use both in sequence: fractional CO2 for structural improvement, followed by pico laser for residual pigmentation and surface refinement.
Fractional CO2 Laser vs Other Acne Scar Treatments: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between fractional CO2 laser and other scar treatments can feel confusing. Here is a practical comparison to help you understand the trade-offs:
| Treatment | Best For | Downtime | Cost Per Session |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fractional CO2 Laser (Ablative) | Deep rolling & boxcar scars | 5–10 days | $300 – $1,200 |
| Fractional CO2 Laser (Non-ablative) | Mild–moderate scars, sensitive skin | 2–3 days | $200 – $800 |
| Pico Laser | Pigmentation, shallow texture | 1–2 days | $300 – $800 |
| Subcision | Tethered rolling scars | 3–5 days | $300 – $600 |
| Microneedling RF | Mild–moderate scars, dark skin | 2–4 days | $300 – $900 |
For most patients with moderate to severe atrophic acne scars in Singapore, fractional CO2 laser remains the gold-standard starting point — particularly when combined with subcision for tethered scars. Always consult a qualified, MOH-licensed aesthetic doctor to determine the most appropriate and effective protocol for your specific scar profile and skin type.
Does fractional CO2 laser hurt, and what does the pain feel like?
With topical numbing cream applied beforehand, most patients rate the discomfort as manageable — typically described as a warm, stinging sensation or a series of quick pricks across the skin. Ablative settings feel more intense than non-ablative ones. Immediately after the session, the skin feels hot, similar to a bad sunburn, which typically subsides within a few hours with the help of a cooling fan or gel applied by the clinic. Over-the-counter pain relief may be recommended for the first evening if sensitivity is significant.