Two of the most talked-about skin technologies do very different jobs. Here's how fractional CO₂ resurfacing and IPL photofacials compare — and how to choose.
Fractional CO₂ is an ablative laser that treats the skin's texture and surface. It's particularly effective for acne scarring, fine lines, and overall skin renewal, working by prompting the skin to regenerate.
Because it resurfaces, it typically involves a short period of redness or peeling as the skin renews — meaningful results often come from fewer sessions.
IPL (intense pulsed light) isn't a laser in the strict sense — it uses broad-spectrum light to target color in the skin. That makes it well suited to pigmentation, sun damage, redness, and vascular concerns.
IPL generally involves little to no downtime, and a series of sessions is common for the best, most even result.
The right choice depends entirely on your primary concern:
Both technologies must be matched carefully to your skin type and goals to be safe and effective. This is assessed before any treatment, and the device and settings are selected specifically for you.
That personalization is where good results are made — and why an in-person evaluation matters.
Not sure which treatment fits your skin? Dr. Arsenous will match the right technology to your skin type and goals during a consultation.
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