Treatment

What is CO2 Fractional Laser?

CO2 fractional laser uses a 10,600 nm carbon dioxide beam split into fine dots. It vaporizes microscopic columns of skin and heats the surrounding dermis, which drives strong collagen remodeling. Common devices in Korea include Lutronic's eCO2.

Apgujeong dermatologists use it for deeper acne scars, chickenpox scars and rough sun-damaged skin when non-ablative options have plateaued.

How it works

Each laser spot removes a small column of tissue. The skin heals from the untouched skin around each column over 5 to 7 days, tightening and smoothing the area. Settings vary from light resurfacing to deep scar work.

Who it suits

Deep acne scars
Chickenpox and surgical scars
Wrinkles around eyes and mouth
Sun-damaged texture

Who should skip it or wait

Active acne or infection
Recent isotretinoin use
Darker skin types without test spots
Keloid history
Anyone who cannot avoid sun for weeks

Side effects and risks

Redness lasting several weeks
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Infection
Cold sore flare
Rare scarring

Aftercare

Apply prescribed ointment and keep the skin moist
Do not pick crusts
Avoid makeup until crusts are gone
Strict sun protection for 2 months
Take antiviral medication if prescribed

Planning around your trip

CO2 needs about a week of crusting, so do it early in a 2-week stay and avoid flying out before the crusts have shed.

Dermatology clinics near Apgujeong

ID Hospital (아이디병원)
Aesthetic Clinic, 6 min walk from Sinsa Station
Wooridul Hospital (우리들병원)
Aesthetic Clinic, 6 min walk from Cheongdam Station
CHAUM Clinic ((의)성광의료재단 차움의원)
Aesthetic Clinic, 9 min walk from Apgujeongrodeo Station
Nanoori Hospital (나누리병원)
Aesthetic Clinic, 12 min walk from Hakdong Station
VIEVIS NAMUH Hospital (비에비스나무병원)
Aesthetic Clinic, 5 min walk from Eonju Station
Sangsang Clinic (상상의원)
Aesthetic Clinic, 5 min walk from Sinsa Station
Doctors Dermatology Clinic (닥터스피부과의원)
Dermatology, 6 min walk from Sinsa Station
Teunteun Hospital (튼튼병원)
Aesthetic Clinic, 5 min walk from Cheongdam Station

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

CO2 Fractional Laser price in Apgujeong

₩100,000–₩200,000
per session (scar area or light full face), VAT extra

Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: Korea Experience price guide (Jan 2026). Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.

CO2 Fractional Laser questions

How long will I look red after CO2?

Crusts shed in about a week, but pinkness can last 2 to 6 weeks and is covered with makeup.

Is CO2 safe for Asian skin?

It is used widely in Korea, but darker skin has a higher risk of temporary pigmentation. Doctors use lower density settings and prescribe brightening creams.

Can I fly right after CO2 laser?

Flying is not dangerous, but cabin air dries open skin. Keep ointment on and wait until crusts shed if you can.

Does CO2 fractional hurt?

It stings and feels hot. Strong numbing cream helps, and deep scar work may use local injections.

How is CO2 laser different from mole removal with CO2?

Mole removal uses a focused beam to vaporize one spot. Fractional CO2 spreads tiny dots across the whole area to resurface it.

How many CO2 sessions do deep scars need?

Most patients do 1 to 3 sessions, 1 to 3 months apart, depending on scar depth and how well the skin recovers.

Questions before you visit?

Laser · CO2 프락셔널 레이저

CO2 Fractional Laser in Apgujeong

Quick facts