Fractional CO2 Laser
in Torrance
A fractional CO2 laser resurfaces acne scars, deep lines, sun damage, and uneven texture by treating the skin in tiny columns, so it heals faster than fully ablative resurfacing while still prompting real collagen renewal.
Fractional CO2 Laser at a Glance
A fractional CO2 laser delivers energy in a grid of microscopic columns rather than treating the whole surface at once. That controlled injury triggers new collagen and fresh skin in the treated columns while leaving surrounding tissue intact to speed healing, which is why it can meaningfully improve acne scarring, fine lines, and sun damage in a small number of sessions. Every treatment is dialed to your skin and goals, since depth and density are adjustable.
What a Fractional CO2 Laser Actually Does
CO2 is the most established ablative resurfacing wavelength. The “fractional” part is what makes it practical for real life: instead of removing the entire top layer of skin, the laser treats a fraction of the surface in tiny columns, so you get a strong resurfacing effect with far less downtime than fully ablative treatment.
How it works
Micro-columns of laser energy remove damaged surface skin and heat the layer beneath, prompting your body to rebuild with new collagen and smoother, more even texture.
Why it’s adjustable
Depth and density are set per patient. A lighter pass suits early texture and tone concerns; a deeper, denser pass targets pitted acne scars and deeper lines.
Why it’s effective
CO2 resurfacing has decades of clinical use behind it. Because it both removes surface damage and stimulates collagen at depth, it addresses concerns that lighter, non-ablative devices often can’t reach in a single visit.
Where the Fractional CO2 Laser Is Used
The laser is used across the face and on several body areas, from the delicate eye region to the neck, chest, abdomen, and hands. Your provider confirms the right area and settings at consultation.
| Area | Primary Goals | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Face | Fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, pores, sun damage | The most common treatment; a strong step up from lighter resurfacing. |
| Neck | Crepey texture, sun damage, early laxity | Thinner skin than the face, so settings are adjusted for a safe, even result. |
| Chest & Décolletage | Sun spots, pigmentation, rough or crepey texture | One of the areas most affected by cumulative sun exposure. |
| Abdomen | Stretch marks, surgical or acne scars, texture | Often sought after pregnancy, weight loss, or years of skin stretching. |
| Upper or Under Eye | Fine lines, crepey texture, laxity | Focused, conservative resurfacing on the thinnest facial skin. |
| Full Eye Region | Upper eyelids and under-eye together | Treats the whole eye area for a balanced, comprehensive result. |
| Hands | Aging skin, tone, texture on the backs of hands | Microscopic treatment zones trigger new collagen for smoother skin. |
Every treatment starts with a provider assessment to confirm the right area, settings, and plan.
Who a Fractional CO2 Laser Is For
CO2 resurfacing suits real texture concerns: acne scarring, fine lines, and sun damage.
It suits people who want a real step up in resurfacing power and can plan around a few days of healing. It is a strong option when lighter treatments haven’t delivered enough.
- You have acne scars, deep lines, or textured, sun-damaged skin you want visibly smoother.
- You’ve tried lighter resurfacing or microneedling and want a stronger result.
- You can set aside about 5 to 7 days for visible healing and follow aftercare closely.
- You understand results build over weeks as new collagen forms, rather than appearing overnight.
- You’re not pregnant or breastfeeding and have no active infection or recent isotretinoin use that would affect candidacy.
What We Evaluate Before Recommending It
Your skin type and history, including how your skin has responded to sun, scarring, and prior treatments.
The concern being treated, so depth and density are matched to scarring versus surface texture versus fine lines.
The right area and settings, since a full face pass and a scar-focused pass call for different approaches.
A realistic session count, because some goals are met in one pass and others plan better as a short series.
Your downtime tolerance and schedule, so treatment lands when you can heal properly.
Whether a lighter or different treatment would serve you better. If a gentler option such as a laser facial, a peel, or microneedling is the smarter fit for your goal and downtime, we’ll say so.
Find Your Best Fit in 30 Seconds
Question 1 of 4What’s your main concern?
How much downtime can you plan around?
Which area are you considering?
How would you like to take the next step?
Thanks! Based on your answers, here’s the best next step:
How the Treatment Works
Ablative resurfacing
The CO2 wavelength removes damaged surface skin directly, which is why it addresses texture and scarring more decisively than non-ablative devices.
Fractional delivery
Energy is delivered in a grid of micro-columns, leaving healthy skin between them to speed healing and lower risk versus fully ablative treatment.
Collagen stimulation
Heat below the surface prompts new collagen, so improvement continues to build in the weeks after each session.
Adjustable settings
Depth, density, and passes are tuned to your skin and concern, from a lighter refresh to a deeper scar-focused treatment.
How It Compares to Other Options
CO2 Laser vs. Non-Ablative Laser
Non-ablative lasers heat below the surface without ablating the outer layer, so they are commonly chosen by patients who prioritize a shorter recovery. Fractional CO2 provides stronger surface resurfacing with more visible healing time and may be considered when scars, lines, or sun damage call for a more intensive approach.
CO2 Laser vs. Microneedling
Microneedling is commonly chosen when a patient wants collagen stimulation with a lighter recovery. Fractional CO2 is a more intensive resurfacing option for pronounced texture, scars, and lines, so the better fit depends on the concern, skin type, and downtime you can plan for.
CO2 Laser vs. Chemical Peel
A peel such as the VI Peel uses a chemical solution to resurface the skin and may suit patients prioritizing pigment or a different recovery profile. Fractional CO2 uses laser energy with adjustable depth and density, which can make it a better fit when texture and scarring are central concerns.
Before & After
Patients shown were treated with fractional CO2, and in some cases CO2 combined with the Erbium laser, IPL, or Radiesse. Individual results vary by skin type, session count, and treatment plan.
Some results shown reflect CO2 combined with Erbium, IPL, or Radiesse, as labeled. Results are not guaranteed and vary by individual.
Not sure whether full-face resurfacing or a smaller treatment area makes more sense? Text us a photo or question and we’ll help you choose a starting point.
Text Us a Photo or QuestionWhat to Expect, Step by Step
Free Consultation
About 30 minutesA provider assesses your skin and goals, confirms candidacy, and recommends the area, settings, and number of sessions that fit your concern and schedule.
Treatment Day
About 45 to 60 minutesNumbing cream is applied for comfort, then the laser is passed over the treatment area. Most people describe warmth and prickling rather than sharp pain.
Recovery
About 5 to 7 daysSkin is red and sensitive at first, then flakes and peels as it heals. Diligent moisturizing and sun protection are essential during this window.
Results & Maintenance
Weeks to monthsTexture and tone keep improving as collagen rebuilds. Depending on your goal, a second or third session may be planned, with periodic maintenance over time.
Results build gradually as new collagen forms, for a natural, refreshed look.
Prefer to talk it through? Our team is happy to answer questions over the phone before you book.
Call (844) 759-6757Fractional CO2 Laser Cost in Torrance
Sessions range from $600 to $2,000 depending on the treatment area, and final pricing is confirmed at your consultation, where settings and the number of sessions are matched to your skin. First-time patients save 10% on any single session, and a series of 3 saves 15% per session. Tap any treatment below to see full details and package pricing.
Full-face treatment is the most-booked option, but targeted areas can be priced separately. Text us if you want help comparing the options before you schedule.
Text Us About PricingFrequently Asked Questions
How much does fractional CO2 laser treatment cost?
Fractional CO2 laser treatment at Skin Works costs $600 to $2,000 per session depending on the area, with full face at $1,800 and a first-visit new patient rate of $1,620. A series of 3 saves 15% per session, and financing is available through Cherry, Klarna, Affirm, and CareCredit.
How much does CO2 laser under the eyes cost?
CO2 laser under the eyes costs $600 for the upper or under-eye area alone, or $1,000 for the full eye region treating both together. New patients save 10% on a first single session, and a series of 3 saves 15% per session.
Is CO2 laser safe under the eyes?
Fractional CO2 can be used around the eyes in appropriate candidates when the treatment is planned specifically for the thin skin in that area. Your provider evaluates candidacy, settings, eye protection, and individual risk before treatment.
Does CO2 laser work on stretch marks?
Fractional CO2 resurfacing can improve the appearance and texture of some stretch marks by creating controlled treatment columns that stimulate skin remodeling. The expected response depends on the age, depth, color, and location of the stretch marks, so a provider assessment is important before planning a series.
Does CO2 laser help with sun damage?
Fractional CO2 laser can improve visible sun damage, rough texture, and uneven tone by resurfacing damaged skin and stimulating remodeling below the surface. The face and chest are commonly treated areas, but the expected response and number of sessions vary by skin type and the depth of the concern.
How much downtime does a fractional CO2 laser need?
Plan for about 5 to 7 days of visible healing. Skin is red and sensitive at first, then flakes and peels as it recovers. Diligent moisturizing and sun protection during this window are essential.
Does it hurt?
Most people describe the treatment as warmth and prickling rather than sharp pain, thanks to numbing cream applied beforehand. Any sensitivity afterward is managed with simple aftercare.
How many sessions will I need?
Some patients plan a single resurfacing session, while deeper acne scarring or more extensive texture concerns may be treated as a short series. Your provider recommends the session count after evaluating the concern, skin type, and recovery goals.
When will I see results?
Skin looks smoother once initial healing is complete, and results keep building over the following weeks as new collagen forms.
Which fractional CO2 treatment area is booked most often?
Full-face fractional CO2 is the most-booked option in this treatment menu. Smaller areas such as the eyes, neck, chest, abdomen, or hands can be treated separately when the concern is more localized.
Is the new patient rate combinable with other offers?
The new patient rate is 10% off a single session for first-time Skin Works patients, applied to your first visit only. A series of 3 saves 15% per session. These offers are not combined with each other or with other discounts.
Who isn’t a good candidate?
Active infection in the area, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and recent isotretinoin use can affect candidacy, and very deep tans are usually treated after they fade. A provider assessment confirms whether the timing is right for you.
Still deciding whether CO2 resurfacing fits your skin and recovery schedule? Send us your question and we’ll point you toward the right consultation.
Text Us a QuestionFractional CO2 Laser in Torrance and the South Bay
Visit Skin Works Medical Spa at 2573 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite B in Torrance, home to our full range of face treatments. We regularly see patients from Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes, Gardena, Carson, Lomita, and San Pedro.
Complimentary Consultations Available Choose the right level of CO2 resurfacing for your skin. Full-face treatment is our most-booked option, while smaller areas can be treated individually. A free assessment helps match the plan to your concern and recovery schedule. |
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is a cosmetic service and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Results and candidacy: Individual experiences vary. Provider evaluation is required before treatment. Certain medical conditions, allergies, medications, pregnancy, breastfeeding, recent isotretinoin use, or recent illness may affect candidacy. The new patient rate is 10% off a single session for first-time Skin Works patients, applied to the first visit only. A series of 3 saves 15% per session. These offers cannot be combined with each other or with other discounts.
Financing: Payment options are provided by third-party lenders and subject to approval. Skin Works Medical Spa, 2573 Pacific Coast Hwy, Suite B, Torrance, CA 90505, (844) 759-6757.