CO2 Fractional Laser in Korea 2026: Prices, Recovery & Best Seoul Clinics
If you are looking for serious skin resurfacing that targets acne scars, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and uneven texture, CO2 fractional laser in Korea is one of the most effective treatments available today. Korean dermatology clinics have been at the forefront of laser technology for decades, and Seoul offers world-class fractional CO2 treatments at a fraction of the price you would pay in the United States, Europe, or Australia. In this guide, we break down how the treatment works, what devices Korean clinics use, current 2026 pricing, a detailed recovery timeline, and the best foreigner-friendly clinics in Seoul.
What Is CO2 Fractional Laser?
CO2 fractional laser is an ablative resurfacing treatment that uses a carbon dioxide laser beam (wavelength 10,600 nm) to create thousands of microscopic columns — called micro-thermal zones (MTZs) — in the skin. Unlike traditional full-surface CO2 ablation, the fractional approach treats only a fraction of the skin at a time (typically 15 to 40 percent per session), leaving surrounding tissue intact. This untreated skin acts as a reservoir for rapid healing.
How it works step by step:
- Micro-column creation — The laser vaporizes tiny vertical channels through the epidermis and into the dermis.
- Controlled thermal damage — Heat from the laser coagulates surrounding tissue, triggering the body's wound-healing response.
- Collagen remodeling — Over the following weeks and months, the body replaces damaged collagen with new, healthy collagen fibers, resulting in smoother, firmer skin.
- Skin renewal — The epidermis regenerates from the edges of each micro-column inward, typically completing surface healing within 5 to 7 days.
CO2 fractional laser is considered the gold standard for treating deep acne scars, surgical scars, enlarged pores, fine lines, and sun-damaged skin. Many Korean dermatologists report that 1 to 2 sessions of fractional CO2 can achieve results comparable to traditional full-face ablative resurfacing — but with significantly shorter downtime.
CO2 Laser Types and Devices Used in Korean Clinics
Korean dermatology clinics use some of the most advanced CO2 fractional laser devices in the world. Here are the most common systems you will encounter:
eCO2 Plus (Lutronic)
Manufactured by Lutronic, a leading Korean medical device company, the eCO2 Plus is one of the most widely used fractional CO2 systems in Korea. It features patented Controlled Chaos Technology (CCT), which fires micro-beams in a pseudo-random pattern to minimize heat buildup between adjacent treatment spots. This reduces thermal damage to surrounding tissue and allows for faster recovery. The system supports both random and regular beam patterns, and clinicians can adjust scan shape, size, and depth in real time.
Fraxel Re:pair (Solta Medical)
The Fraxel Re:pair is the ablative member of the Fraxel family, manufactured by Solta Medical (USA). It is FDA-cleared and uses the same 10,600 nm CO2 wavelength. The Fraxel Re:pair is particularly well-known for treating deep wrinkles, severe acne scarring, stretch marks, and photoaging. It is one of the more aggressive fractional CO2 devices and typically produces dramatic results in a single session.
CORE CO2 and Other Systems
Several other fractional CO2 platforms are available across Seoul clinics, including the CORE CO2, Mosaic eCO2, and various ultrapulse CO2 systems. While the underlying laser wavelength and fractional principle remain the same, each device differs in beam delivery algorithms, scanning speed, and energy distribution. Your dermatologist will select the device best suited to your skin concerns and downtime tolerance.
CO2 Fractional Laser Prices in Seoul (2026)
One of the biggest advantages of getting CO2 fractional laser in Korea is the price. Treatments in Seoul cost roughly 50 to 70 percent less than comparable procedures in the US, UK, or Australia. Below is a breakdown of typical 2026 pricing in Seoul.
| Treatment Area | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full face | ₩300,000 – ₩700,000 | $230 – $540 | Most popular option |
| Partial face (cheeks or nose) | ₩150,000 – ₩400,000 | $115 – $310 | Targeted scar treatment |
| Acne scars (localized) | ₩200,000 – ₩500,000 | $155 – $385 | Depth-dependent pricing |
| Neck | ₩200,000 – ₩400,000 | $155 – $310 | Often bundled with face |
| Full face + neck | ₩400,000 – ₩1,000,000 | $310 – $770 | Package discount common |
| Stretch marks / body scars | ₩300,000 – ₩600,000 | $230 – $460 | Per area pricing |
| Mole or spot removal (per unit) | ₩10,000 – ₩30,000 | $8 – $23 | Simple ablation |
Prices as of February 2026. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD. Actual costs vary by clinic, device, treatment depth, and number of sessions. Contact clinics directly for current pricing.
For comparison: A single session of fractional CO2 laser for full face typically costs $1,500 to $3,000 in the United States and $1,000 to $2,500 in Australia. Seoul prices represent savings of 60 to 80 percent.
Most clinics recommend 2 to 3 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart for optimal results on acne scars. For skin rejuvenation and pore tightening, a single session can deliver noticeable improvement.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Here is what a typical CO2 fractional laser appointment looks like at a Seoul clinic:
1. Consultation (15-20 minutes) Your dermatologist will examine your skin, discuss your concerns, and determine the appropriate device, energy level, and treatment depth. Most foreigner-friendly clinics provide this consultation in English.
2. Numbing (30-45 minutes) A topical anesthetic cream (usually lidocaine-based) is applied to the treatment area. Some clinics also offer local anesthetic injections for deeper treatments or sensitive areas.
3. Laser treatment (15-30 minutes) The dermatologist passes the laser handpiece over the treatment area in a systematic pattern. You will feel heat and a prickling sensation, though the numbing cream significantly reduces discomfort. The skin will show a grid-like pattern of tiny dots where the laser has penetrated.
4. Post-treatment care (15-20 minutes) The clinic applies a soothing mask, cooling treatment, or regenerative serum (such as stem cell growth factors or LED therapy) to calm the skin. You will receive aftercare instructions and products before leaving.
Total time at the clinic: Approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
Side Effects and Recovery Timeline
CO2 fractional laser involves real downtime. Here is a detailed day-by-day recovery timeline so you can plan your Seoul trip accordingly:
| Day | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 0 (treatment day) | Redness, warmth, mild swelling. Skin looks sunburned. Avoid washing face. |
| Day 1-2 | Swelling peaks. Skin feels tight. Oozing or clear fluid is normal. Avoid washing face if possible; gentle rinse only if needed. |
| Day 3-4 | Swelling subsides. Tiny brown micro-crusts form over treated areas. Apply prescribed healing ointment or regeneration cream. Do not pick or scratch. |
| Day 5-7 | Micro-crusts begin to flake off naturally. New pink skin appears underneath. Gentle face washing with a mild cleanser is now safe. |
| Day 7-10 | Most crusting has resolved. Skin remains pink or slightly red. You can apply mineral makeup for coverage. |
| Day 14-21 | Pinkness gradually fades. Skin texture improvement becomes visible. Strict sun protection is essential. |
| Month 1-3 | Collagen remodeling continues. Progressive improvement in scars, pores, and skin tightness. Full results are typically visible at 3 months. |
Key aftercare rules:
- Do not pick at crusts or peeling skin — this can cause pigmentation
- Avoid direct sunlight and apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily for at least 3 months
- Use only gentle, fragrance-free skincare products during recovery
- Skip retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and vitamin C for at least 2 weeks
- Stay hydrated and prioritize sleep to support healing
Important for travel planning: Plan to stay in Seoul for at least 2 to 3 days after your treatment before flying, as cabin pressure and dry airplane air can irritate healing skin.
CO2 Laser vs Erbium Laser vs Pico Laser
Choosing the right laser depends on your skin concerns, tolerance for downtime, and desired results. Here is how CO2 fractional stacks up against two other popular laser types available in Korea:
| Feature | CO2 Fractional Laser | Erbium Fractional Laser | Pico Laser |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wavelength | 10,600 nm | 2,940 nm | 532 / 755 / 1,064 nm |
| Type | Ablative | Ablative (less aggressive) | Non-ablative |
| Best for | Deep scars, wrinkles, severe texture | Mild-moderate scars, fine lines | Pigmentation, mild scars, tone |
| Downtime | 5-10 days | 3-5 days | 1-3 days |
| Pain level | Moderate to high | Moderate | Low to mild |
| Sessions needed | 1-3 | 2-4 | 3-6 |
| Collagen stimulation | Strong | Moderate | Mild to moderate |
| Risk of PIH | Higher (especially darker skin) | Moderate | Lower |
| Price in Seoul | $230-$540 (full face) | $200-$450 (full face) | $150-$350 (full face) |
Bottom line: CO2 fractional delivers the most dramatic single-session results for deep scars and significant texture issues, but it comes with the longest recovery. Erbium fractional is a gentler ablative option with shorter downtime. Pico laser is ideal if you want minimal downtime and are primarily concerned with pigmentation or mild scarring. Your Korean dermatologist may also recommend combination protocols — for example, CO2 fractional for deep scars followed by Pico laser sessions for residual pigmentation.
Best Clinics for CO2 Fractional Laser in Seoul
Here are five foreigner-friendly clinics in Seoul with strong reputations for CO2 fractional laser treatments:
1. QD Clinic (Gangnam)
- Location: 433 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul (Sinnonhyeon Station, Line 9, Exit 7)
- Specialty: Laser skin resurfacing, scar treatment, and anti-aging procedures
- English support: Full English consultation available; WhatsApp booking at +82-10-8478-1650
- Why visit: Board-certified dermatologists with extensive experience in CO2 laser treatments for international patients. Located near COEX in the heart of Gangnam.
2. Gangnam YAAN Skin Clinic (Gangnam)
- Location: 5F Deokbong Building, 82-gil Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Bongeunsa Station, Exit 7)
- Specialty: Fractional CO2 laser, skin rejuvenation, and pore treatment
- English support: English-speaking staff available; contact at +82-10-5308-0499
- Why visit: Popular among international patients for their personalized treatment plans and tax refund benefits for foreign visitors.
3. Lijin Skin Clinic (Myeongdong)
- Location: Myeongdong, Jung-gu, Seoul (Myeongdong Station, Line 4)
- Specialty: Fractional CO2 laser, pigmentation treatment, and general dermatology
- English support: English-speaking staff and detailed consultations for international patients
- Why visit: Conveniently located in the tourist-friendly Myeongdong district with competitive pricing and customized treatment plans.
4. The Heal Clinic Sinsa (Apgujeong/Sinsa)
- Location: 3F, 222 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Sinsa Station, Line 3)
- Specialty: Advanced laser treatments including fractional CO2, skin resurfacing, and scar revision
- English support: English consultation available
- Why visit: Located in the prestigious Apgujeong-Sinsa beauty district, known for premium dermatology services and a refined clinic experience.
5. Yonsei Dermatology (Sinchon)
- Location: Sinchon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (Sinchon Station, Line 2)
- Specialty: Medical dermatology, CO2 laser, acne scar treatment
- English support: English-speaking dermatologists available
- Why visit: University-affiliated clinic with board-certified dermatologists who specialize in evidence-based scar treatment protocols. Good option for patients who want a more medical (less cosmetic) approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many CO2 fractional laser sessions do I need? A: For acne scars, most dermatologists recommend 2 to 3 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. For general skin rejuvenation, pore tightening, or fine lines, a single session often produces noticeable improvement. Your dermatologist will create a personalized plan based on your skin condition.
Q: Is CO2 fractional laser safe for darker skin tones? A: CO2 fractional laser can be performed on darker skin tones, but there is a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Korean dermatologists are experienced with Asian skin types and will adjust laser settings accordingly. Discuss your concerns during your consultation and follow aftercare instructions strictly.
Q: How painful is the treatment? A: With topical numbing cream (applied 30 to 45 minutes before the procedure), most patients describe the sensation as a warm prickling or rubber-band snapping feeling. Deeper treatments on scarred areas may be more uncomfortable. Some clinics offer local anesthetic injections for added comfort.
Q: Can I fly home the same day as my treatment? A: It is not recommended. Plan to stay in Seoul for at least 2 to 3 days after treatment. Your skin will be swollen and oozing during the first 48 hours, and the dry cabin air on a flight can interfere with healing. Ideally, wait 5 to 7 days before a long-haul flight.
Q: What is the difference between Fraxel and fractional CO2? A: "Fraxel" is actually a brand name by Solta Medical. The Fraxel Re:pair model uses the same CO2 wavelength (10,600 nm) as other fractional CO2 devices like Lutronic's eCO2. The term "fractional CO2 laser" is the generic name for the treatment category. Results are comparable across quality devices — what matters most is the skill and experience of your dermatologist.
Q: Will my insurance cover CO2 fractional laser in Korea? A: Cosmetic laser treatments are generally not covered by Korean national health insurance or international travel insurance. CO2 fractional laser is classified as an elective cosmetic procedure. However, the out-of-pocket cost in Seoul is still significantly lower than insured co-pays for similar treatments in many Western countries.
Final Thoughts
CO2 fractional laser remains one of the most powerful tools in dermatology for transforming scarred, textured, or aging skin. Korea's combination of cutting-edge laser technology, highly trained dermatologists, and competitive pricing makes Seoul an ideal destination for this treatment. Whether you are dealing with stubborn acne scars or simply want smoother, more youthful skin, a fractional CO2 session at a reputable Seoul clinic can deliver results that last for years.
Ready to book your CO2 fractional laser treatment in Seoul? Start by contacting one of the clinics listed above via WhatsApp or their English-language websites. Most clinics offer free online consultations and can provide a personalized quote before your trip.
Prices as of February 2026. Exchange rate used: ₩1,300 = $1 USD. Actual costs may vary by clinic, treatment area, and individual skin condition. Contact clinics directly for current pricing and consultation.
Last Updated: February 23, 2026 Reading Time: 8 minutes
Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about CO2 fractional laser treatment and is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any cosmetic or medical procedure. The clinics mentioned in this article are listed for informational purposes and do not constitute an endorsement or recommendation.