Key Takeaways :

A fractional CO2 laser machine is an advanced medical beauty equipment, which uses a 10,600-nanometer pixelated beams to create a micro-therapeutic area in the skin or mucosa, which promotes the remarkable remodeling of collagen and reduces downtime. Key factors to be considered in the selection include its power output (such as the 60 w model discussed), scanning mode, safety certifications (CE, FDA, ISO) and expected application-from facial rejuvenation and scar treatment to vaginal regeneration. The correct choice depends on the technical specifications of the equipment, such as spot size, pulse modes and scanning range, to meet your specific needs.

What is a fractional CO2 laser machine?

A fractional CO2 laser machine is a sophisticated medical-aesthetic device that emits a 10,600 nm wavelength laser beam in a pixelated or “fractionated” pattern. Instead of treating the entire surface area, it creates a grid of microscopic thermal injuries surrounded by untreated, healthy tissue. The staged treatment method creates a micro-treatment area (mtz), which significantly speeds up the healing process by allowing the surrounding healthy tissue to promote rapid repair. This process effectively stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin fibers, which are the cornerstone of skin remodeling. The mechanism of step-by-step photolysis and its influence on collagen synthesis are well documented in dermatological literature. ( Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15373777/ )

Why is a fractional CO2 laser important in the aesthetic and medical industry?

• First of all, in terms of service expansion, it covers a wide range of high-demand scenes including skin replacement, deep scar repair, vaginal rejuvenation, pigment removal, wrinkle removal, etc., so that institutions can meet the diversified needs of high-value customers without buying multiple single-function equipment.
• Secondly, in terms of treatment efficiency, each course of treatment only takes 10-15 minutes, which allows doctors to serve more patients every day and significantly improving the utilization rate of medical resources.
• Thirdly, the characteristics of non-invasive and shortest downtime greatly improve patients’ acceptance-different from traditional ablation therapy that require 2-4 weeks of recovery, patients who use fractional CO2 laser machine can return to normal work and life within 3-7 days, reducing the psychological barrier of treatment and improving word-of-mouth recommendation. 
• Clinically, its accurate staged heating ensures remarkable curative effect: it can improve vaginal tightness by 60%, enhance labial pink by 70% and increase vaginal lubrication by 80%, which is used for gynecological rejuvenation; For skin problems, it can reduce deep wrinkles by 50-70% and improve the visibility of acne scar by 60% after 2-3 courses of treatment.
• In addition, the equipment’s stable performance and long service life (up to 10 years with proper maintenance) reduce the long-term operating costs, and at the same time, it meets the requirements of international certifications (CE, FDA, ISO), thus minimizing the clinical safety risks. These advantages jointly promote stable income growth and help institutions to establish a professional brand impression in the highly competitive medical and beauty market.

The Main Specifications and Features

It is very important to understand the technical specifications of fractional CO2 laser machine when evaluating it. The following is a detailed list of typical 60 W model.

Main Feature Highlights

1. Dot matrix mode

• Tattoo Removal Power (20) Point Stay 0.2 / Point Spacing 1.0
• Acne Scar Removal Power (15) Point Stay 0.2 / Point Spacing 0.6
• Stretch Mark Removal Power (20) Point Stay 0.3 / Point Spacing 0.6
• Scar Repair Power (20) Point Stay 0.3 / Point Spacing 0.5

2. Vulvar mode

• Vulvar Dot Array Power (20) Point Stay 1.0
• Oral Mucosa Power (20) Point Stay 1.0

3. Internal vulvar mode

• Internal vaginal treatment power (20), interval time 1.0, number of points 24, number of rows 4, speed energy 5.0

4.Pulse mode

• Mole Removal Power (10) Pulse Mode

Fraction test method

Before clinical use, it is recommended to conduct a test on a 4 paper first. The depth of skin tissue is approximately equal to the thickness of a piece of A4 paper; Excessive energy will cause excessive damage to the skin. This test method is helpful for operators to accurately grasp the energy output of the CO2 laser machine for skin, and to avoid adverse reactions during formal treatment.

Common Application of Fractional CO2 Laser Processing Machine

1. Medical beauty industry (60% of the market share)

In this industry, fractional CO2 laser is mainly used for skin surface reconstruction, wrinkle removal, pigmentation treatment and scar repair. Medical and beauty institutions, dermatological clinics and plastic surgery hospitals are the main application places. The deep tissue permeability of the device can effectively stimulate collagen regeneration, improving skin texture and reducing deep wrinkles, and it is recognized as the gold standard for skin surface reconstruction.

2. Gynecological medical industry (market share of 25%)

CO2 laser machine for skin (with vaginal treatment mode) is used for vaginal tightening, improving dryness and other gynecological problems. By generating controlled heat at 50-70℃ in the vaginal mucosa, the regeneration of fibroblasts and the reorganization of collagen can be stimulated, and the vaginal wall can be thickened and tightness enhanced. This application is growing rapidly, and more and more gynecological clinics use this technology for non-invasive vagina rejuvenation.

3. Anti-aging and skin care industry (15% market share)

In anti-aging-focused beauty salons, a CO2 laser resurfacing machine is used to improve skin texture, enhance elasticity, and reduce fine lines. Its non-ablation treatment mode ensures the least downtime, making it popular among middle-aged and young customers who are pursuing mild anti-aging treatments. Although the market share is relatively small, with the increasing demand of consumers for high-end skin care, it is showing a gradual expansion trend.

Main Differences Between Fractional CO2 Laser and Er: YAG Laser

There are significant differences between fractional CO2 laser machine and Er: YAG laser processing machine on the market, especially in function, cost and service life. The following is a detailed comparison based on industry test data and market survey.

1. Differences in function

• Fractional CO2 laser machine:
  • Excellent deep treatment ability: it can penetrate into the dermis of the skin, making it suitable for the treatment of deep wrinkles, scars, pigmentation and large pores. Effectively promote the regeneration of collagen and improves skin quality.
  • Wide range of applications: in addition to skin surface repair, it can also be used for vaginal regeneration, wart and nevus removal.
• Er:YAG Laser:
  • Suitable for surface treatment: Er:YAG lasers primarily target the skin’s surface, suitable for treating mild wrinkles, pigmentation spots, and improving skin texture. Its effects are relatively superficial, with a shorter recovery period.

Er:YAG lasers focus more on improving the skin’s surface and are not as powerful as CO2 fractional lasers in deep repair.

2. Cost differences

• Fractional CO2 Laser Machine:
  • High initial investment: the purchase and maintenance costs of CO2 fractional laser machine are usually higher. However, because of its powerful functions, it can bring higher treatment costs and profits.
  • Higher treatment fees: due to significant effects and a wide range of indications, the treatment cost of CO2 fractional laser is usually higher than that of Er: YAG laser, reflecting its technical complexity and long-term effect durability.
• Er: YAG Laser Machine:
  • Low initial investment: the procurement cost of Er: YAG laser equipment is relatively low, making it more attractive to small beauty institutions or newly opened clinics.

However, because the effect may not be as obvious as that of the CO2 laser machine on the skin, more treatment periods may be needed to achieve the desired effect, thus increasing long-term costs.

3. Difference in service life

• Fractional CO2 laser machine: 
  • Long service life: as long as it is properly maintained, the service life can reach more than 10 years and the failure rate is low.
  • High stability: under mature technical conditions, the long-term stability of carbon dioxide fractionation equipment makes it a reliable choice for medical beauty industry.
• Er: YAG laser machine:
  • The service life is relatively short: Er: YAG laser equipment may need to be replaced after frequent use, and the service life is relatively short (usually 5 to 7 years).
  • High maintenance requirements: Er: YAG laser equipment may need more frequent maintenance to ensure stable performance.

In summary, CO2 fractional laser machines offer superior deep-penetration treatment capabilities, making them suitable for a variety of complex skin issues. However, they have higher initial investment and treatment costs, and a longer lifespan. Er:YAG laser devices, on the other hand, offer advantages in terms of initial investment and treatment costs, making them suitable for rapid treatment of surface-level problems. However, their functionality is relatively limited, and their lifespan is also shorter. The choice of appropriate device depends on specific needs and the target customer group.

Troubleshooting Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Q 1: What preparations should be made before CO2 fractionated laser treatment?

A 1: Patients should avoid using certain drugs (such as aspirin and other anticoagulants) before treatment. The doctor will need to ask patients about their history of allergies or skin condition. A comprehensive evaluation should be carried out before treatment to ensure the applicability of laser treatment.

Q 2: How soon can I resume normal activities after treatment?

A 2: The time of recovery varies from person to person. Redness, swelling, and scaling are usually present within 3-7 days after treatment. Most patients can resume their normal activities within one week, but specific situations should be in accordance with the doctor’s advice.

Q 3: What skin problems are suitable for CO2 fractional laser treatment?

A 3: CO2 fraction laser machine is suitable for the treatment of various skin problems, including wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation, sagging skin and large pores.

Q 4: How long does the effect of treatment usually last?

A 4: The duration of treatment effects depends on individual differences, skin type and skin care procedures. Generally speaking, after several treatments, the effects can last for 1-2 years, depending on individual’s lifestyle and skin care habits.

Q 5: What is the typical lifespan of a fractional CO2 laser machine?

A 5: The service life of CO2 laser equipment is usually 5 to 10 years, depending on the frequency of use, maintenance, brand and model of the equipment.

Conclusion

With the steady growth of the global market for CO2 fractional laser system, the adoption of standardized high-performance CO2 laser dermatome will help organizations gain competitive advantages in the developing market.A fractional CO2 laser machine is a multifunctional and efficient medical beauty equipment, which plays a vital role in solving deep skin and vagina problems. Its core advantages are accurate treatment, wide application range and high patient acceptance. It is an important investment for medical and aesthetic institutions pursuing high-quality development. When choosing equipment, medical institutions should give priority to parameter matching, certification compliance and supplier ability to ensure clinical safety and operational efficiency.