Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is a skin treatment that uses a carbon dioxide laser to make tiny, controlled channels in the skin, prompting it to heal and build new collagen. It is used for acne scars, fine lines, enlarged pores, uneven texture and sun damage, and suits adults who can plan for about a week of visible healing. At 7 Dimensions Medical Center (7DMC), fractional CO2 laser is offered at our Jumeirah (Umm Suqeim 3) and Al Barsha (Arjan) branches, with settings chosen after a skin assessment.
A CO2 laser removes very thin columns of skin. "Fractional" means it treats only a fraction of the skin at a time, leaving tiny bridges of untouched skin between the columns, which helps the skin heal faster than older full-surface resurfacing. As the skin repairs itself, it produces new collagen, so texture, scars and fine lines can improve over the months after treatment.
At 7DMC we use a fractional CO2 laser system.
| Area or concern | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Full face for texture and lines | One to three sessions, about 5 to 7 days of peeling |
| Acne scars | Deeper settings, often 2 to 3 sessions |
| Around the eyes or mouth | Smaller area, shorter treatment |
| Neck and chest | Gentler settings, as the skin heals more slowly |
Settings are adjusted for your skin type. Darker skin tones can often be treated, but usually with gentler settings and skin preparation to lower the risk of dark marks.
Fractional CO2 laser may suit you if you:
It is not suitable, or needs to wait, if you:
Just got my CO2 laser done on my face for post-acne and pores. I was a little nervous before, but honestly, it was pretty quick and not as scary as I thought it would be. My face is red now, but that’s expected. Now I’m just waiting to see how my skin looks after it heals. I would like to thank all the staff for being so helpful and supportive.Google review · 7DMC Al Barsha
DR Iman is super. She will give her honest opinion and the right professional advise on what treatments. Not pushing and overselling treatment like many others.Google review · 7DMC Al Barsha
… I’m also a regular patient of Dr. Iman, who has always provided outstanding care as well, during my dermatology sessions. The team here truly goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and looked after.Google review · 7DMC Al Barsha
Talk to our team at Jumeirah or Al Barsha. We will answer your questions and help you choose the right next step.
The skin is red and swollen at first, then darkens slightly and peels over 5 to 10 days, leaving pink new skin that is often smoother. Collagen keeps building for 3 to 6 months, so improvement is gradual. Many people need 1 to 3 sessions, about 4 to 8 weeks apart, and deep acne scars may need more or a combination with other treatments such as microneedling. Results vary from person to person.
Fractional CO2 is a stronger treatment than gentle lasers, with more downtime. Expected effects are redness, swelling, a warm, sunburn-like feeling, oozing and peeling for several days. Redness can last several weeks, and sometimes 2 to 3 months. Other risks include:
Tell your clinician about any medicines, past laser treatments and how your skin heals.
The cost of fractional CO2 laser in Dubai usually ranges from AED 700 to AED 4,500 per session for the face, depending on the area treated, the depth of treatment and the clinic. Typical ranges: Small area (for example under the eyes), AED 700 to AED 2,300; Full face, AED 1,000 to AED 4,500; Acne scars, full face, AED 1,500 to AED 6,000. These are typical market prices across Dubai clinics, not a 7DMC price list. At 7DMC, your exact price is confirmed at your consultation, before any treatment.
It is used to improve acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, rough texture, sun damage and some scars.
A full CO2 laser treats the whole skin surface, with a long recovery. A fractional CO2 laser treats tiny columns and leaves skin between them, so healing is faster. Most clinics today use fractional CO2.
Most people with acne scars need 2 to 3 sessions, about 4 to 8 weeks apart. Deep scars may need more, or a combination with other treatments.
Expect about 5 to 10 days of redness, swelling and peeling. Pinkness can last several weeks or longer, and make-up usually covers it after about a week.
A numbing cream is applied first. Most people feel heat and prickling during treatment, and a sunburn-like feeling for a day or two after.
Often yes, with gentler settings and skin preparation, but the risk of dark marks is higher. Your clinician will assess your skin type first.
Fractional CO2 laser is available at 7DMC Jumeirah in Umm Suqeim 3 and 7DMC Al Barsha in Arjan, Al Barsha South.
