What is Fractional Laser?
Fractional laser is a skin resurfacing technology that targets very small, microscopic areas of the skin rather than the whole surface. The laser beam reaches the skin in thousands of tiny columns, while the intact tissue in between speeds up healing.
As a result, recovery time is shorter and the risk of side effects is lower than with older methods in which the entire skin surface was peeled.
How does it work?
The controlled micro-injury created by the laser triggers the skin’s own repair process. During this process new collagen and elastin fibres form and the skin texture is renewed.
The aim is an improvement in the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, enlarged pores and uneven pigmentation.
When is it used?
- Acne and spot scars
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Enlarged pores and rough skin texture
- Uneven skin tone and sun spots
- The appearance of surgical and other scars
- The appearance of stretch marks
How is it done?
- 1Skin analysis and treatment plan.
- 2Cleansing the skin and applying numbing cream.
- 3Laser treatment.
- 4Soothing care and sun protection advice.
Before
- Avoid intense sun exposure and self-tanning products for 2–4 weeks before treatment.
- You may need to pause creams containing retinoids for a few days beforehand.
- If you are prone to cold sores, your doctor may recommend preventive medication.
During the treatment
- The skin is cleansed and numbing cream is applied for 30–45 minutes.
- The laser treatment takes 15–30 minutes depending on the area; you may feel warmth and prickling.
- A soothing product is applied after the treatment.
After
- There may be redness and a sunburn-like feeling for 2–3 days, followed by light peeling.
- Use a moisturiser and high-factor sunscreen during this period.
- Avoid make-up, saunas, steam rooms and peeling products in the first week.
When will I see results? Because collagen production continues for weeks, results become visible within 4–6 weeks. Usually 3–5 sessions are planned 4–6 weeks apart.
Possible side effects
- Temporary redness, swelling and peeling
- Temporary darkening of pigment in darker skin (which is why sun protection is important)
- Rarely a cold sore flare-up or infection
Who is it not suitable for?
It is not used, or only planned after medical assessment, in the following situations:
- Pregnancy
- Active acne or skin infection
- Recent intense sun exposure
- Tendency to keloid scarring
Sources
- Manstein D, Herron GS, Sink RK, Tanner H, Anderson RR. Fractional photothermolysis: a new concept for cutaneous remodeling using microscopic patterns of thermal injury. Lasers Surg Med. 2004;34(5):426–438.
