Fractional laser treatment is a type of skin resurfacing procedure that uses a laser to target specific areas of the skin, creating microscopic channels known as “fractional zones.” Unlike traditional laser resurfacing, which treats the entire surface of the skin, fractional lasers only target a fraction of the skin at a time, leaving surrounding tissue untouched. This allows for faster healing and reduced downtime.
Here’s how fractional laser treatment works and what it’s used for:

How does Fractional Laser work?

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  • Fractional lasers emit tiny beams of light that penetrate the skin's surface, creating thousands of microscopic treatment zones.
  • These micro-injuries stimulate the body's natural healing process, triggering collagen production and skin renewal.
  • The surrounding untreated skin helps accelerate the healing process, leading to faster recovery and minimal downtime.

What are the types of Fractional Laser?

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There are several types of fractional lasers available, including:
  • Non-ablative fractional lasers: These lasers target the deeper layers of the skin without removing the outer layer (epidermis). They are less invasive and typically require multiple treatments for optimal results.
  • Ablative fractional lasers: These lasers remove tiny columns of skin tissue, including the outer layer, to promote collagen production and skin tightening. They provide more dramatic results but may require longer downtime.

What conditions does Fractional Laser treat?

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Fractional laser treatment can be used to address a variety of skin concerns, including:
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Sun damage and age spots
  • Acne scars and other types of scarring
  • Uneven skin tone and texture
  • Enlarged pores
  • Stretch marks

How is Fractional Laser applied?

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  • Before the procedure, the skin is typically cleansed and numbed with a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort.
  • The fractional laser device is then passed over the treatment area, delivering pulses of laser energy to the skin.
  • Depending on the type of laser and the patient's specific concerns, multiple treatment sessions may be recommended for optimal results.

Recovery and Results

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  • After fractional laser treatment, patients may experience redness, swelling, and mild discomfort, similar to a sunburn, which typically resolves within a few days.
  • The skin may also appear slightly pink or bronzed as it heals, and some flaking or peeling may occur as the outer layer of skin sheds.
  • Results gradually improve over the following weeks to months as collagen remodeling occurs, leading to smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin.

What are safety considerations?

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  • Fractional laser treatment is generally safe when performed by a trained and experienced healthcare professional.
  • However, there are potential risks and side effects, including temporary changes in skin pigmentation, infection, and scarring, especially with ablative lasers.
  • It's essential to follow post-treatment instructions provided by the practitioner to minimize risks and optimize results.
Overall, fractional laser treatment offers an effective solution for improving skin texture, tone, and appearance, with minimal downtime compared to traditional laser resurfacing techniques. It is a popular choice for individuals seeking to rejuvenate their skin and address various signs of aging and skin damage.