Fractional CO₂ laser is among the most effective treatments available for skin resurfacing and acne scarring — long established in dermatology and supported by published clinical reviews. At Dr. Raghda El-Shafei's clinic we use a current-generation fractional CO₂ system — the FONS-SVR — to treat scars, wrinkles, enlarged pores and stretch marks, with a plan defined after examining and assessing your skin type.
What is fractional CO₂ laser?
The carbon dioxide laser works at a wavelength of 10,600 nm, and the key is the word "fractional": the device does not treat the entire skin surface at once. Instead it splits the beam into thousands of microscopic columns that penetrate the skin while leaving the tissue between them intact. That untreated tissue speeds healing, while the delivered heat stimulates fresh collagen and elastin production over the weeks that follow — which is what produces genuine improvement in texture and scarring, rather than temporary brightening.
⚡ The system used in the clinic
What does fractional CO₂ laser treat?
How many sessions will I need?
This varies by case and is decided after examination. Broadly:
- Acne scars: usually more than one session, spaced so the skin can complete its collagen-building cycle between treatments.
- Resurfacing and wrinkles: improvement can begin after the first session, with results accumulating across the course.
- Skin tags and warts: usually a single session per lesion using the surgical handpiece.
It is important to know that fractional laser results are not immediate — collagen takes weeks to build, and the final result appears months after the last session. Patience is part of the treatment.
What happens during a session?
🌸 Aftercare — the part that determines your result
Redness and a sunburn-like warmth for a period afterwards are normal, followed by light peeling. Following these instructions is what separates an excellent result from complications:
- Sunscreen is essential — the single most important instruction. Avoiding direct sun matters greatly in preventing post-treatment pigmentation.
- Do not pick or peel the skin — let peeling happen on its own; scratching or forcing it causes lasting marks.
- Moisturise consistently with the product your dermatologist prescribes, as the skin barrier needs support.
- Use a very gentle cleanser and lukewarm water, and avoid acids or retinol until your dermatologist allows them.
- No make-up during the first days, as directed by your dermatologist.
- Avoid swimming pools, saunas and strenuous exercise for the period your dermatologist specifies.
- Follow any prescribed topical treatment, and contact the clinic immediately if anything unexpected occurs.
⚠️ Who is fractional CO₂ laser not suitable for?
The device is powerful and effective, but it is not right for every case. The consultation determines this. Situations that require postponement or an alternative include:
- Active inflammation, skin infection or an active herpes outbreak in the treatment area
- Recent use of certain oral acne medications — you must tell your dermatologist
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- A tendency to form hypertrophic or keloid scars
- Severely inflamed active acne — this is treated first, before considering scar treatment
- Inability to commit to sun protection after the session