Fractional CO₂ laser
At the PHENICIA Clinic in Marseille, fractional CO₂ laser treatment is a leading cosmetic treatment for the skin of the face and body: wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation spots, stretch marks, and texture irregularities.
The protocol is personalized: energy, density, and depth are adjusted according to your skin and the area treated for visible and natural results, with minimal downtime.
How does the CO₂ laser work?
The CO₂ laser emits infrared light (10,600 nm) that is absorbed by water in skin tissue. It creates micro-columns of ablation surrounded by healthy skin, accelerating regeneration and stimulating collagen and elastin.
This precision makes it a benchmark for acne scars, deep wrinkles, and pigmentation spots, with settings adapted to the face, neck, décolletage, or hands.
Downtime is variable: mild to moderate redness and flaking depending on the intensity. Post-treatment care (hydration, SPF50+) promotes rapid recovery and a more even complexion.
At PHENICIA Marseille, a medical consultation allows us to define a personalized plan: parameters, areas, and number of sessions. The goal: visible and harmonious results, in complete safety.
Indications & expected results
The fractional CO₂ laser treats wrinkles and fine lines, acne and post-surgical scars, spots (lentigines), stretch marks, and uneven skin texture. The settings can be adjusted to suit the area being treated: face, neck, décolleté, hands.
The first effects appear in 2–3 weeks (smoother skin, even complexion), then intensify over 3 to 6 months thanks to collagen remodeling. Session plan according to the objective: isolated lesion (1 session) or 2 to 4 sessions for resurfacing and deep scars.
Wrinkles / Fine lines
Skin resurfacing, improved firmness and elasticity of the face.
Scars
Gradual reduction of acne and post-operative scars.
Spots & Complexion
Reduction in sun spots, more even skin texture, more uniform complexion.
Stretch Marks & Firmness
Improvement in the appearance of stretch marks and skin tone depending on the area.
How a session unfolds
Before: medical consultation, gentle skin preparation, sun protection. During: laser treatment (20–45 min), adjusted settings (energy, density, depth). After: repair cream and personalized advice.
Before
- Consultation & skin assessment
- Possible anesthetic cream
- No sun / self-tanner
During
- Laser treatment on targeted areas (20–45 min)
- Settings according to skin type & area
- Soothing finish (LED if needed)
After
- Transient redness/warmth
- Generous hydration
- SPF50+ daily for 4 weeks
Downtime varies depending on the intensity (3 to 10 days). Avoid sports and heat during the first few days, and avoid irritating ingredients (acids/retinoids) until medically approved.
CO₂ vs. other treatments
The CO₂ laser acts deeply to smooth the skin, fade scars, and improve skin texture. Other solutions may be considered depending on the season, the aesthetic goal, or the available recovery time. The laser treatment is performed under local anesthesia. The procedure lasts between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the area being treated. The skin is then treated with a cooling gel to minimize discomfort. The treatment is repeated several times, depending on the patient's needs and the aesthetic goal.
Fractional CO₂ laser—when should you choose it?
- Deep wrinkles, acne scars, uneven skin texture
- Need for structural improvement of collagen
- Accepts short to moderate downtime
When should you choose an alternative?
- Laser Origin: gentle treatment for regular maintenance, without downtime
- Peels: radiance, light spots, renewed skin on the surface
- Hyaluronic acid injections: filling deep wrinkles or redefining volume
- Hydrafacial/LaseMD: maintenance between two CO₂ laser sessions
Combined approach
Depending on the indication, CO₂ + peels (radiance) or CO₂ + injections (volume/contours) can be combined for harmonious and long-lasting results.
Calendar & season
The laser settings are adjusted according to the time of year. A personalized schedule is established in consultation with the patient to ensure safety and effectiveness.
At the PHENICIA Clinic in Marseille, each protocol is individualized: we prioritize natural, long-lasting results that are tailored to your skin.
Medical blepharoplasty using CO₂ laser
A non-surgical alternative, medical CO₂ laser blepharoplasty ( SILKPLEX™ handpiece) achieves precise skin retraction of the upper and lower eyelids as well as crow's feet. Controlled and reproducible procedure, eye protection , short recovery time (≈ 5–7 days), visible results after the first session.
Indications: mild to moderate excess skin, wrinkles, dehydration lines, bags under the eyes without fat, crow's feet. Suitable for skin types I–IV, after medical examination.
Advantages: quick procedure, no incisions or stitches, stimulated collagen production, naturally open gaze. Activities can be resumed with sunglasses.
CO₂ laser – Indicative prices & quotes
The amounts below are for informational purposes only. A personalized quote is provided during a medical consultation based on the area, intensity, and number of sessions.
Wrinkles & fine lines CO₂
Medical CO₂ blepharoplasty
Scars (acne, keloids, etc.)
Medical consultation
Prices are provided for informational purposes only. The final cost will be confirmed after medical evaluation. Payment plans may be offered depending on the treatment plan.
FAQs about CO₂ lasers
The session is well tolerated thanks to the application of an anesthetic cream before treatment. A slight sensation of warmth may persist for a few hours, which can be relieved with moisturizing and soothing skincare products.
It depends on the indication. A single session may be sufficient for a localized lesion. For overall resurfacing or acne scars, 2 to 4 sessions spaced several months apart are usually required.
Depending on the intensity, downtime is between 3 and 10 days. The skin remains slightly pink for a few days before regaining its final glow. Sun exposure should be avoided for one month.
The CO₂ laser is suitable for skin types I to IV. For dark or tanned skin, a specific protocol is defined to avoid any risk of pigmentation.
Improvements in skin texture, reduction in wrinkles and scars are visible within the first few weeks. Collagen production continues for several months for a natural rejuvenating effect.
Yes. CO₂ laser treatment combines very well with light peels, radiofrequency, or hyaluronic acid injections to enhance results while respecting the healing schedule.
Make an appointment
Book your CO₂ laser consultation at the PHENICIA Clinic in Marseille to get a personalized quote and discover the solution best suited to your skin.