Laser & Lifting · Apgujeong, Seoul
CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Fractional CO2 and Erbium resurfacing for acne scars, deep lines and rough texture, with downtime planned around your schedule.
Laser & Lifting · Apgujeong, Seoul
CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Fractional CO2 and Erbium resurfacing for acne scars, deep lines and rough texture, with downtime planned around your schedule.
Quick answer
Every plan at Oaro Dermatology Clinic begins with a 1:1 skin diagnosis by a board-certified dermatologist, so the dose, device settings and session count are set for your skin rather than a template. Meet our doctors or ask about your own skin .
At a glance
| Procedure time | 30–60 minutes including numbing |
|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | Topical numbing cream; local anaesthetic for deep scar work |
| Downtime | 4–7 days of redness and crusting (fractional); 2–3 days for Erbium |
| Sessions | 1–3 sessions, 6–8 weeks apart |
| Results last | Long term; collagen continues to build for 6 months |
| Performed by | Board-certified dermatologist |
Overview
What is CO2 laser resurfacing?
The carbon dioxide laser emits at 10,600 nm, a wavelength absorbed strongly by water in the skin. When delivered in a fractional pattern, it vaporises thousands of microscopic columns through the epidermis and into the dermis while leaving the surrounding skin intact. Those bridges of healthy tissue allow rapid healing, and the controlled injury sets off a prolonged collagen-building response. The result is a smoother surface, shallower scars and tighter texture, with downtime measured in days rather than the weeks of fully ablative resurfacing.
Erbium lasers work on the same principle at 2,940 nm, where water absorption is even higher. The energy is used up closer to the surface, so an Erbium Fraxel treatment produces less heat, less redness and a shorter recovery, at the cost of a milder effect per session.
How laser resurfacing works at Oaro
Oaro Dermatology Clinic in Apgujeong, Seoul, has both a fractional CO2 laser and an Erbium Fraxel laser on site, which lets your dermatologist match the tool to the problem. Deep, ice-pick or boxcar acne scars generally call for CO2, sometimes with a focused ablative pass on individual scars or subcision beforehand. Fine lines around the eyes and mouth, mild rolling scars and dull texture are often handled with Erbium when you have limited time in Seoul.
Resurfacing is frequently staged with other treatments. Rejuran Healer or PDRN injections immediately after a session may support healing, and a course of Potenza RF microneedling can be used between CO2 sessions for patients who want to limit downtime. Dr. Chang-hyun Kim is a full member of the Korean Society of Acne & Rosacea and the Korean Society for Dermatologic Laser, and sets every parameter personally. The laser and lifting hub lists each laser available.
Why patients choose Oaro
- Diagnosis and treatment by a board-certified dermatologist, not a technician
- Genuine devices and products: Ultherapy, Thermage FLX, Helios Pico, Rejuran, Juvelook
- One treatment plan, written down, with aftercare and follow-up
- Private 1:1 rooms in Cheongdam Tower, 8 minutes from Apgujeong Rodeo Station
- English-friendly coordination and clear, itemised pricing
Treatment goals
Common goals for CO2 laser resurfacing
Flatten acne scars
Fractional CO2 is one of the most effective single treatments for atrophic acne scarring, especially combined with subcision.
Soften deep lines
Perioral and periorbital lines that toxin cannot fully treat may improve as collagen rebuilds.
Smooth sun-damaged texture
Rough, thickened or mottled skin can be refined over one to two sessions.
Treat surgical or traumatic scars
Resurfacing may blend scar edges into the surrounding skin. Book a consultation to have your scars assessed.
Your visit
What to expect
1. Consultation & diagnosis
Your dermatologist classifies scar type and depth, checks for active acne, recent isotretinoin use or a history of keloids, and chooses CO2, Erbium or a combination. Downtime is planned around your travel dates.
2. Treatment
Numbing cream is applied for 40–60 minutes; local anaesthetic may be added for deep scar work. The laser is passed in a grid with density and depth varied by zone. A warm prickling sensation is normal, and cooling air is used throughout.
3. Aftercare & follow-up
A healing ointment and dressing are applied, and detailed written care is recorded in your care notebook. A check at one week confirms healing, and the next session is planned at six to eight weeks.
Cost guide
CO2 laser resurfacing cost in Seoul
Pricing depends on the area, the density of treatment and whether individual scars are treated ablatively.
| Option | Typical range (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Erbium Fraxel, full face, per session | 250,000 – 500,000 |
| Fractional CO2, full face, per session | 350,000 – 800,000 |
| Fractional CO2 with subcision or focal ablation for scars | 600,000 – 1,500,000 |
Exact pricing is confirmed at consultation after examination.
Aftercare
Aftercare
- Apply the prescribed ointment several times daily and keep the skin moist until crusts shed, usually within five to seven days.
- Cleanse with lukewarm water only; no scrubs, acids or retinoids for two weeks.
- Avoid direct sun completely for two weeks, then use SPF 50 daily for three months to prevent pigmentation.
- Do not pick crusts, swim or use saunas until the skin has fully re-epithelialised.
- Pinkness can last several weeks; make-up may be applied once the surface is intact.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Chang-hyun Kim, M.D.
Board-certified dermatologist and Representative Director of Oaro Dermatology Clinic, Cheongdam. Ulthera Certified Treatment Provider, Thermage FLX Master Certified, and full member of the Korean Dermatological Association, the Korean Society for Dermatologic Laser and the Korean Filler Society.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How long is the downtime after fractional CO2?
Expect four to seven days of redness, swelling and fine crusting, followed by a few weeks of fading pinkness.
Is CO2 laser safe for Asian skin?
Yes, with conservative density and strict sun protection; your dermatologist in Apgujeong may pre-treat with brightening agents to lower the risk of hyperpigmentation.
How many sessions will acne scars need?
Most patients see meaningful change after one session and continue with two to three sessions six to eight weeks apart.
CO2 or Erbium: which should I choose?
CO2 gives a stronger result per session; Erbium gives a shorter recovery, and the choice is made at examination.
Can I have CO2 laser while on isotretinoin?
Resurfacing is usually postponed for several months after a course, and your dermatologist will confirm the right timing.
Explore related care
Often considered together
- Potenza RF Microneedling — a lower-downtime option for scars and pores
- Pico Laser — fractional picosecond mode for mild scars and tone
- Rejuran Healer — supports healing after resurfacing
- Rough Skin Texture — a concern resurfacing improves
- Laser Skin Clinic — every laser installed at Oaro
- Contact & Booking — arrange a scar consultation
Private 1:1 consultation
Plan your treatment with a board-certified dermatologist in Apgujeong
Tell us what you would like to change, and we will examine your skin, explain the options and give you a written plan with clear pricing. English-speaking coordinators are available for international patients.