Fractional CO2 laser: a buyer's guide for clinics
A fractional CO2 laser is one of the most capable devices a clinic can own, and one of the most demanding. Here is what to check before you buy.
Published 10 November 2026 · Lazenix
What a fractional CO2 laser does
A CO2 laser emits light at 10,600 nm. A scanner splits the beam into a grid of micro-beams. Each beam treats a tiny column of skin and leaves the tissue around it intact, which supports the skin's own renewal. In aesthetic practice it is used for skin resurfacing, the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, texture and enlarged pores.
The specifications that matter
| Specification | Why it matters | FractionaGlow CO2 |
|---|---|---|
| Laser power | Sets the working range of the device | 40 W |
| Energy per dot | Controls how much each micro-beam delivers | 1–150 mJ |
| Scan area | A larger area covers the face faster | Up to 20 × 20 mm |
| Patterns | Shapes to fit different areas | Triangle, square, round, hexagon, line |
| Scan order | Spreads heat between neighbouring dots | Sequential, random, centre-split |
| Beam delivery | Reach and freedom of movement | 7-joint articulated arm |
Being able to adjust energy, the distance between dots and the pattern separately is what lets a practitioner match the treatment to the area and the client.
Treatment courses and downtime
Fractional CO2 is an ablative treatment, so clients need to plan for recovery. The FractionaGlow CO2 manual describes acne scar treatments as usually performed 3 to 5 times, at intervals of 1 to 3 months and never less than 1 month apart. Small scabs at the treated dots fall away in about 3 to 6 days, and sun protection is needed afterwards. Your consultation process should set these expectations clearly.
Who can operate it
This is a device for trained and suitably qualified practitioners. Before buying, confirm three things for your location and your business:
- what qualification your practitioners need for ablative laser treatments
- what your insurer requires to cover them
- whether your premises need a licence or registration for laser treatments
Rules differ across the United Kingdom and they change, so check the current position with your local authority and insurer.
Safety features to look for
- an emergency stop button and a key switch
- a foot switch, so the laser fires only while the pedal is pressed
- water-flow protection, so there is no output without cooling
- a visible aiming beam
- protective eyewear for the operator and the client
Running costs
A CO2 laser of this type has no cartridges. Routine items are the cooling water and lens paper or cleaner for the treatment head. Ask the supplier what servicing is recommended and how the warranty is set out in the contract.
See the full specification, safety features and treatment course.
View FractionaGlow CO2This article is general information for clinic owners and practitioners. It is not medical, legal or financial advice. Device figures are taken from the operator manuals and may vary with configuration.