/ Skin Resurfacing / Fraxis CO₂
LASER & LIGHT • SKIN RESURFACING
Fraxis CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
A fractional ablative laser treatment designed to remodel the skin by creating controlled microscopic treatment zones, commonly used for acne scarring, skin texture, fine lines and selected signs of photoageing.
TREATMENT SNAPSHOT
Best for
Acne scarring, texture, fine lines & photoaged skin
Typical course
Often 1–3 treatments
Treatment spacing
Several weeks to months apart
Downtime
Moderate
Results timeline
Progressive over weeks to months
Maintenance
Individual
Treatment category
Fractional CO₂ / Ablative Laser Resurfacing
Typical cost
Varies by treatment area and intensity
Comfort
Moderate to high
Treatment intensity, downtime and results vary according to treatment area, settings, skin type and individual healing response.
In this guide
What it is
Best for
When it may not fit
Treatment intensity
Treatment snapshot
Results and downtime
Cost
Alternatives
Supporting skincare
FAQs
Reviews
What is Fraxis CO₂?
Fraxis CO₂ is a fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing treatment. CO₂ laser energy is absorbed by water within the skin, creating controlled microscopic columns of thermal injury while leaving areas of surrounding skin untreated. This fractional pattern allows the skin to repair and remodel while stimulating new collagen formation. Treatment intensity can be adjusted according to the concern, treatment area, skin type and desired balance between results and downtime. Fraxis is one fractional CO₂ laser platform. Other fractional CO₂ systems use the same broad treatment principle but may differ in energy delivery, treatment pattern and protocols.
Best for
Selected acne scars
Uneven skin texture
Fine lines and photoaged skin
Selected enlarged pores and superficial scars
Additional benefits people may notice
Smoother-looking skin
Improved skin quality
More refined texture
Fraxis CO₂ is primarily considered for skin resurfacing rather than as a pigmentation treatment. It may help selected acne scars, uneven texture, fine lines, photoaged skin, selected enlarged pores and superficial scars. Different acne scar types can respond differently, and combination treatment may be needed depending on scar morphology.
Treatment intensity matters
Not every fractional CO₂ treatment is performed at the same intensity. Energy, treatment density, number of passes and treatment area can all influence the balance between results, downtime and risk.
A lighter treatment may involve
Less downtime
More subtle results
Potentially more treatment sessions
A more intensive treatment may involve
Greater resurfacing
More downtime
More noticeable recovery
Increased importance of careful patient selection and aftercare
When fractional CO₂ may not be the first choice
Fractional CO₂ can provide significant skin resurfacing, but greater treatment intensity also means more downtime and a different risk profile than gentler treatments. Extra consideration is important in people with higher Fitzpatrick skin types, a history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, active skin infection, active inflammatory acne, recent tanning or conditions that may affect healing. For acne scarring, the scar type matters. Deep ice-pick scars or tethered rolling scars may require scar-specific treatments such as TCA CROSS or subcision rather than relying on fractional resurfacing alone. People seeking minimal downtime may prefer a less intensive treatment such as RF microneedling, depending on the concern and expected outcome. Professional assessment is important to determine whether fractional CO₂ is appropriate and what treatment intensity is suitable.
Example treatment journey
01 — Consultation
02 — Preparation
03 — Treatment
04 — Recovery
05 — Results
The concern, scar type, skin type, medical history, previous treatments and tolerance for downtime are assessed. The skin is cleansed and topical anaesthetic is commonly used. Additional preparation may be recommended depending on the treatment plan and individual risk factors. Fractional CO₂ laser energy creates controlled microscopic treatment zones across the selected area. Treatment settings are adjusted according to the treatment goal, skin characteristics and desired treatment intensity. Redness, swelling, warmth and a rough or crusted skin texture are expected during early healing. The skin may peel or shed as treated areas recover. Initial improvement becomes visible as the skin heals, while collagen remodelling continues over the following weeks and months.
What results can you expect?
Potential improvements may include smoother skin texture, improvement in selected acne scars, softening of fine lines, reduced appearance of selected enlarged pores, improved appearance of photoaged skin and gradual improvement in overall skin quality. Results depend on scar type, scar severity, treatment intensity, number of sessions, skin type, healing response and previous treatments. Outcomes should not be guaranteed.
What is the downtime?
Fractional CO₂ generally involves more downtime than non-ablative treatments such as RF microneedling or gentle laser treatments. Temporary effects commonly include redness, swelling, warmth, sensitivity, rough or crusted skin, peeling or shedding and temporary colour changes. Visible recovery may commonly take several days to around a week or longer, depending on treatment intensity and individual response. Residual redness can sometimes persist beyond the initial healing period.
Skin type matters
Because fractional CO₂ creates controlled thermal injury within the skin, the risk of post-inflammatory pigment changes can vary according to skin type, treatment intensity and individual pigment response. Higher Fitzpatrick skin types and people with a history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation require particularly careful assessment and treatment planning.
Recovery and results vary significantly according to treatment intensity, skin type, treatment area and individual healing response.
COST
Indicative treatment cost
Varies by treatment area and intensity
Fractional CO₂ pricing can vary considerably according to the size of the treatment area, treatment intensity, clinic location, device used and practitioner experience. When comparing costs, consider the overall treatment plan rather than the price of a single session, as treatment intensity and number of sessions can differ significantly.
Treatment area
Larger areas may cost more
Technology
Intensity and device settings matter
Location
Prices vary between clinics
Practitioner experience
Expertise can influence pricing
Other approaches that may be considered
The most appropriate option depends on the pigment type, skin type, treatment history and individual risk profile.
Secret RF / RF Microneedling
May be considered when improving acne scarring and texture with less surface disruption and generally less downtime.
Subcision
A scar-specific treatment commonly considered for selected tethered rolling acne scars.
TCA CROSS
A targeted treatment commonly considered for selected ice-pick scars.
Microneedling
A non-energy-based approach that may be considered for milder texture and scarring concerns.
Supporting skincare
Post-treatment support
• Gentle post-treatment skincare
• Broad-spectrum sun protection
• Barrier-supporting moisturiser where appropriate
• Avoiding irritating active skincare until advised
Gentle post-treatment skincare and broad-spectrum sun protection are particularly important while the skin barrier recovers following fractional CO₂ treatment.
Patients should follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by their treating practitioner and avoid introducing potentially irritating active skincare until advised. Detailed aftercare should be personalised by the treating clinic.
Frequently asked questions
What is fractional CO₂ laser?
What does Fraxis CO₂ treat?
Is Fraxis CO₂ good for acne scars?
How many treatments are needed?
How long is the downtime?
Is fractional CO₂ more intensive than RF microneedling?
Can darker skin types have CO₂ laser?
Does CO₂ laser tighten skin?
Is Fraxis the same as every CO₂ laser?
Last updated: August 2026
Fraxis CO₂ Reviews
Treatment Map reviews are coming soon. Future reviews will be more useful when they distinguish scar type, treatment intensity, downtime and treatment area.
Results
Ratings coming soon
Downtime
Ratings coming soon
Comfort
Ratings coming soon
Value for money
Ratings coming soon
Have you tried this treatment?
Review submissions will open soon.
Not sure whether fractional CO₂ is right for your skin?
Your skin type, scar pattern, treatment goals and tolerance for downtime all matter. Start with your concerns to understand which resurfacing approaches may be worth considering.
Build My Treatment Plan
/ Skin Resurfacing / Fraxis CO₂
LASER & LIGHT • SKIN RESURFACING
Fraxis CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
A fractional ablative laser treatment designed to remodel the skin by creating controlled microscopic treatment zones, commonly used for acne scarring, skin texture, fine lines and selected signs of photoageing.
TREATMENT SNAPSHOT
Best for
Acne scarring, texture, fine lines & photoaged skin
Typical course
Often 1–3 treatments
Treatment spacing
Several weeks to months apart
Downtime
Moderate
Results timeline
Progressive over weeks to months
Maintenance
Individual
Treatment category
Fractional CO₂ / Ablative Laser Resurfacing
Typical cost
Varies by treatment area and intensity
Comfort
Moderate to high
Treatment intensity, downtime and results vary according to treatment area, settings, skin type and individual healing response.
In this guide
What it is
Best for
When it may not fit
Treatment intensity
Treatment snapshot
Results and downtime
Cost
Alternatives
Supporting skincare
FAQs
Reviews
What is Fraxis CO₂?
Fraxis CO₂ is a fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing treatment. CO₂ laser energy is absorbed by water within the skin, creating controlled microscopic columns of thermal injury while leaving areas of surrounding skin untreated. This fractional pattern allows the skin to repair and remodel while stimulating new collagen formation. Treatment intensity can be adjusted according to the concern, treatment area, skin type and desired balance between results and downtime. Fraxis is one fractional CO₂ laser platform. Other fractional CO₂ systems use the same broad treatment principle but may differ in energy delivery, treatment pattern and protocols.
Best for
Selected acne scars
Uneven skin texture
Fine lines and photoaged skin
Selected enlarged pores and superficial scars
Additional benefits people may notice
Smoother-looking skin
Improved skin quality
More refined texture
Fraxis CO₂ is primarily considered for skin resurfacing rather than as a pigmentation treatment. It may help selected acne scars, uneven texture, fine lines, photoaged skin, selected enlarged pores and superficial scars. Different acne scar types can respond differently, and combination treatment may be needed depending on scar morphology.
Treatment intensity matters
Not every fractional CO₂ treatment is performed at the same intensity. Energy, treatment density, number of passes and treatment area can all influence the balance between results, downtime and risk.
A lighter treatment may involve
Less downtime
More subtle results
Potentially more treatment sessions
A more intensive treatment may involve
Greater resurfacing
More downtime
More noticeable recovery
Increased importance of careful patient selection and aftercare
When fractional CO₂ may not be the first choice
Fractional CO₂ can provide significant skin resurfacing, but greater treatment intensity also means more downtime and a different risk profile than gentler treatments. Extra consideration is important in people with higher Fitzpatrick skin types, a history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, active skin infection, active inflammatory acne, recent tanning or conditions that may affect healing. For acne scarring, the scar type matters. Deep ice-pick scars or tethered rolling scars may require scar-specific treatments such as TCA CROSS or subcision rather than relying on fractional resurfacing alone. People seeking minimal downtime may prefer a less intensive treatment such as RF microneedling, depending on the concern and expected outcome. Professional assessment is important to determine whether fractional CO₂ is appropriate and what treatment intensity is suitable.
Example treatment journey
01 — Consultation
02 — Preparation
03 — Treatment
04 — Recovery
05 — Results
The concern, scar type, skin type, medical history, previous treatments and tolerance for downtime are assessed. The skin is cleansed and topical anaesthetic is commonly used. Additional preparation may be recommended depending on the treatment plan and individual risk factors. Fractional CO₂ laser energy creates controlled microscopic treatment zones across the selected area. Treatment settings are adjusted according to the treatment goal, skin characteristics and desired treatment intensity. Redness, swelling, warmth and a rough or crusted skin texture are expected during early healing. The skin may peel or shed as treated areas recover. Initial improvement becomes visible as the skin heals, while collagen remodelling continues over the following weeks and months.
What results can you expect?
Potential improvements may include smoother skin texture, improvement in selected acne scars, softening of fine lines, reduced appearance of selected enlarged pores, improved appearance of photoaged skin and gradual improvement in overall skin quality. Results depend on scar type, scar severity, treatment intensity, number of sessions, skin type, healing response and previous treatments. Outcomes should not be guaranteed.
What is the downtime?
Fractional CO₂ generally involves more downtime than non-ablative treatments such as RF microneedling or gentle laser treatments. Temporary effects commonly include redness, swelling, warmth, sensitivity, rough or crusted skin, peeling or shedding and temporary colour changes. Visible recovery may commonly take several days to around a week or longer, depending on treatment intensity and individual response. Residual redness can sometimes persist beyond the initial healing period.
Skin type matters
Because fractional CO₂ creates controlled thermal injury within the skin, the risk of post-inflammatory pigment changes can vary according to skin type, treatment intensity and individual pigment response. Higher Fitzpatrick skin types and people with a history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation require particularly careful assessment and treatment planning.
Recovery and results vary significantly according to treatment intensity, skin type, treatment area and individual healing response.
COST
Indicative treatment cost
Varies by treatment area and intensity
Fractional CO₂ pricing can vary considerably according to the size of the treatment area, treatment intensity, clinic location, device used and practitioner experience. When comparing costs, consider the overall treatment plan rather than the price of a single session, as treatment intensity and number of sessions can differ significantly.
Treatment area
Larger areas may cost more
Technology
Intensity and device settings matter
Location
Prices vary between clinics
Practitioner experience
Expertise can influence pricing
Other approaches that may be considered
The most appropriate option depends on the pigment type, skin type, treatment history and individual risk profile.
Secret RF / RF Microneedling
May be considered when improving acne scarring and texture with less surface disruption and generally less downtime.
Subcision
A scar-specific treatment commonly considered for selected tethered rolling acne scars.
TCA CROSS
A targeted treatment commonly considered for selected ice-pick scars.
Microneedling
A non-energy-based approach that may be considered for milder texture and scarring concerns.
Supporting skincare
Post-treatment support
• Gentle post-treatment skincare
• Broad-spectrum sun protection
• Barrier-supporting moisturiser where appropriate
• Avoiding irritating active skincare until advised
Gentle post-treatment skincare and broad-spectrum sun protection are particularly important while the skin barrier recovers following fractional CO₂ treatment.
Patients should follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by their treating practitioner and avoid introducing potentially irritating active skincare until advised. Detailed aftercare should be personalised by the treating clinic.
Frequently asked questions
What is fractional CO₂ laser?
What does Fraxis CO₂ treat?
Is Fraxis CO₂ good for acne scars?
How many treatments are needed?
How long is the downtime?
Is fractional CO₂ more intensive than RF microneedling?
Can darker skin types have CO₂ laser?
Does CO₂ laser tighten skin?
Is Fraxis the same as every CO₂ laser?
Last updated: August 2026
Fraxis CO₂ Reviews
Treatment Map reviews are coming soon. Future reviews will be more useful when they distinguish scar type, treatment intensity, downtime and treatment area.
Results
Ratings coming soon
Downtime
Ratings coming soon
Comfort
Ratings coming soon
Value for money
Ratings coming soon
Have you tried this treatment?
Review submissions will open soon.
Not sure whether fractional CO₂ is right for your skin?
Your skin type, scar pattern, treatment goals and tolerance for downtime all matter. Start with your concerns to understand which resurfacing approaches may be worth considering.
Build My Treatment Plan
/ Skin Resurfacing / Fraxis CO₂
LASER & LIGHT • SKIN RESURFACING
Fraxis CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
A fractional ablative laser treatment designed to remodel the skin by creating controlled microscopic treatment zones, commonly used for acne scarring, skin texture, fine lines and selected signs of photoageing.
TREATMENT SNAPSHOT
Best for
Acne scarring, texture, fine lines & photoaged skin
Typical course
Often 1–3 treatments
Treatment spacing
Several weeks to months apart
Downtime
Moderate
Results timeline
Progressive over weeks to months
Maintenance
Individual
Treatment category
Fractional CO₂ / Ablative Laser Resurfacing
Typical cost
Varies by treatment area and intensity
Comfort
Moderate to high
Treatment intensity, downtime and results vary according to treatment area, settings, skin type and individual healing response.
In this guide
What it is
Best for
When it may not fit
Treatment intensity
Treatment snapshot
Results and downtime
Cost
Alternatives
Supporting skincare
FAQs
Reviews
What is Fraxis CO₂?
Fraxis CO₂ is a fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing treatment. CO₂ laser energy is absorbed by water within the skin, creating controlled microscopic columns of thermal injury while leaving areas of surrounding skin untreated. This fractional pattern allows the skin to repair and remodel while stimulating new collagen formation. Treatment intensity can be adjusted according to the concern, treatment area, skin type and desired balance between results and downtime. Fraxis is one fractional CO₂ laser platform. Other fractional CO₂ systems use the same broad treatment principle but may differ in energy delivery, treatment pattern and protocols.
Best for
Selected acne scars
Uneven skin texture
Fine lines and photoaged skin
Selected enlarged pores and superficial scars
Additional benefits people may notice
Smoother-looking skin
Improved skin quality
More refined texture
Fraxis CO₂ is primarily considered for skin resurfacing rather than as a pigmentation treatment. It may help selected acne scars, uneven texture, fine lines, photoaged skin, selected enlarged pores and superficial scars. Different acne scar types can respond differently, and combination treatment may be needed depending on scar morphology.
Treatment intensity matters
Not every fractional CO₂ treatment is performed at the same intensity. Energy, treatment density, number of passes and treatment area can all influence the balance between results, downtime and risk.
A lighter treatment may involve
Less downtime
More subtle results
Potentially more treatment sessions
A more intensive treatment may involve
Greater resurfacing
More downtime
More noticeable recovery
Increased importance of careful patient selection and aftercare
When fractional CO₂ may not be the first choice
Fractional CO₂ can provide significant skin resurfacing, but greater treatment intensity also means more downtime and a different risk profile than gentler treatments. Extra consideration is important in people with higher Fitzpatrick skin types, a history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, active skin infection, active inflammatory acne, recent tanning or conditions that may affect healing. For acne scarring, the scar type matters. Deep ice-pick scars or tethered rolling scars may require scar-specific treatments such as TCA CROSS or subcision rather than relying on fractional resurfacing alone. People seeking minimal downtime may prefer a less intensive treatment such as RF microneedling, depending on the concern and expected outcome. Professional assessment is important to determine whether fractional CO₂ is appropriate and what treatment intensity is suitable.
Example treatment journey
01 — Consultation
02 — Preparation
03 — Treatment
04 — Recovery
05 — Results
The concern, scar type, skin type, medical history, previous treatments and tolerance for downtime are assessed. The skin is cleansed and topical anaesthetic is commonly used. Additional preparation may be recommended depending on the treatment plan and individual risk factors. Fractional CO₂ laser energy creates controlled microscopic treatment zones across the selected area. Treatment settings are adjusted according to the treatment goal, skin characteristics and desired treatment intensity. Redness, swelling, warmth and a rough or crusted skin texture are expected during early healing. The skin may peel or shed as treated areas recover. Initial improvement becomes visible as the skin heals, while collagen remodelling continues over the following weeks and months.
What results can you expect?
Potential improvements may include smoother skin texture, improvement in selected acne scars, softening of fine lines, reduced appearance of selected enlarged pores, improved appearance of photoaged skin and gradual improvement in overall skin quality. Results depend on scar type, scar severity, treatment intensity, number of sessions, skin type, healing response and previous treatments. Outcomes should not be guaranteed.
What is the downtime?
Fractional CO₂ generally involves more downtime than non-ablative treatments such as RF microneedling or gentle laser treatments. Temporary effects commonly include redness, swelling, warmth, sensitivity, rough or crusted skin, peeling or shedding and temporary colour changes. Visible recovery may commonly take several days to around a week or longer, depending on treatment intensity and individual response. Residual redness can sometimes persist beyond the initial healing period.
Skin type matters
Because fractional CO₂ creates controlled thermal injury within the skin, the risk of post-inflammatory pigment changes can vary according to skin type, treatment intensity and individual pigment response. Higher Fitzpatrick skin types and people with a history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation require particularly careful assessment and treatment planning.
Recovery and results vary significantly according to treatment intensity, skin type, treatment area and individual healing response.
COST
Indicative treatment cost
Varies by treatment area and intensity
Fractional CO₂ pricing can vary considerably according to the size of the treatment area, treatment intensity, clinic location, device used and practitioner experience. When comparing costs, consider the overall treatment plan rather than the price of a single session, as treatment intensity and number of sessions can differ significantly.
Treatment area
Larger areas may cost more
Technology
Intensity and device settings matter
Location
Prices vary between clinics
Practitioner experience
Expertise can influence pricing
Other approaches that may be considered
The most appropriate option depends on the pigment type, skin type, treatment history and individual risk profile.
Secret RF / RF Microneedling
May be considered when improving acne scarring and texture with less surface disruption and generally less downtime.
Subcision
A scar-specific treatment commonly considered for selected tethered rolling acne scars.
TCA CROSS
A targeted treatment commonly considered for selected ice-pick scars.
Microneedling
A non-energy-based approach that may be considered for milder texture and scarring concerns.
Supporting skincare
Post-treatment support
• Gentle post-treatment skincare
• Broad-spectrum sun protection
• Barrier-supporting moisturiser where appropriate
• Avoiding irritating active skincare until advised
Gentle post-treatment skincare and broad-spectrum sun protection are particularly important while the skin barrier recovers following fractional CO₂ treatment.
Patients should follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by their treating practitioner and avoid introducing potentially irritating active skincare until advised. Detailed aftercare should be personalised by the treating clinic.
Frequently asked questions
What is fractional CO₂ laser?
What does Fraxis CO₂ treat?
Is Fraxis CO₂ good for acne scars?
How many treatments are needed?
How long is the downtime?
Is fractional CO₂ more intensive than RF microneedling?
Can darker skin types have CO₂ laser?
Does CO₂ laser tighten skin?
Is Fraxis the same as every CO₂ laser?
Last updated: August 2026
Fraxis CO₂ Reviews
Treatment Map reviews are coming soon. Future reviews will be more useful when they distinguish scar type, treatment intensity, downtime and treatment area.
Results
Ratings coming soon
Downtime
Ratings coming soon
Comfort
Ratings coming soon
Value for money
Ratings coming soon
Have you tried this treatment?
Review submissions will open soon.
Not sure whether fractional CO₂ is right for your skin?
Your skin type, scar pattern, treatment goals and tolerance for downtime all matter. Start with your concerns to understand which resurfacing approaches may be worth considering.
Build My Treatment Plan