What is
Fractional Laser Resurfacing?
Fractional laser resurfacing, also called non-ablative (non-wounding) laser resurfacing, is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure intended to minimize the appearance of skin imperfections. Whether you’re bothered by acne scars, stretch marks, or the fine lines that come with age, this gentle laser treatment can help you look better, which will help you feel better about yourself.
What Fractional Laser Resurfacing Can Do For You
The Best Candidates for Fractional Laser Resurfacing
Fractional Laser Resurfacing Cost
How Does Fractional Laser Resurfacing Prformed?
Non-Ablative vs. Ablative Laser Resurfacing
Frequently Asked Questions
What Fractional Laser Resurfacing
Can Do For You
Acne Scar Treatment
Because the fractional laser has the ability to penetrate deeply into the skin’s surface, various degrees of acne scarring and hyperpigmentation can be treated. The depth and type of scarring will be factors in how effective the treatment is. Your aesthetician will discuss this with you during your FREE consultation.
We highly recommend that before coming in for fractional laser resurfacing, you wait until any active breakouts have subsided, or you first pursue laser acne treatment.
Stretch Mark Removal
Fractional laser resurfacing is an effective laser stretch mark removal method because it’s gentle, and treats both the epidermis and dermis. It’s commonly used to minimize the appearance of stretch marks on the breasts, stomach, thighs and arms. It’s important to note that the fractional laser will work best on newer stretch marks, and may not have much effect on older ones.
Anti-Aging Treatment
Again, because the fractional laser is so gentle on the skin, it’s ideal for treating the signs of aging on the face. Fractional laser resurfacing can make a difference in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture, and large pores. It can also stimulate collagen production, plumping the skin and improving its elasticity.
Fractional laser resurfacing requires no anesthetic, is virtually painless, and requires minimal downtime.
The Best Candidates for
Fractional Laser Resurfacing
The best candidates for fractional laser resurfacing are men and women of any age who suffer from or are bothered by any of the conditions below. The treatment isn’t just for the face, but can be applied to stretch marks and scars on other areas of the body including the hands, neck, and chest.
Conditions Treated
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scarring on the face or body
- Hyperpigmentation (melasma or chloasma)
- Surgical scars
- Uneven skin tone or surface
- Enlarged pores
- Stretch marks
- Chicken pox scars
Potential Results
- Enhance your skin texture
- Have a more even skin tone
- Take years off of your appearance
- Fade stretch marks
- Minimize acne scarring and chicken pox scars
- Experience skin tightening (this is sometimes an added benefit)
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How Does Fractional Laser Resurfacing
Performed?
The energy is converted into heat, which gently breaks down the treated tissue, causing the skin to heal itself by producing collagen and new, smooth, even skin.
It's this plumping collagen that effectively minimizes scars and pits in the skin by essentially "pushing out" those divots, and evening the skin surface. The fractional laser penetrates the epidermis and dermis, but does not affect the stratum corneum, the skin's uppermost layer. This makes it safe for all skin types.
Cost of
Fractional Laser Resurfacing?
For other areas on the body, the price will vary based on the size of the surface area to be covered, the severity of the condition being treated, and the number of sessions needed to achieve results. Packages are available. Just ask!
Non-Ablative vs. Ablative Laser Resurfacing
When you come in for your initial consultation with our aesthetician, you’ll be able to explore which type of laser skin resurfacing is most appropriate for your skin condition, and your desired results.
Ablative Laser Resurfacing
In ablative laser resurfacing, laser energy heats the uppermost layer of the skin to evaporate both water and tissue, causing new skin growth. It’s ideal for superficial problems, such as fine lines and minor blemishes caused by aging and sun damage. This option is suitable for skin types I – III. Laser skin resurfacing is an example of an ablative laser treatment.
Non-Ablative Laser Resurfacing
In non-ablative laser resurfacing, the laser bypasses the uppermost layer of skin, and penetrates both the epidermis and dermis to evaporate water molecules, thereby encouraging both new skin growth and collagen production. It’s idea for deeper skin problems such as scarring or long-term sun damage. This option is suitable for all skin types. Our fractional laser resurfacing treatment performed with the with the StarLux® 500 device is an example of a non-ablative treatment.
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More On
Fractional Laser Resurfacing
Fractional Laser Resurfacing
Question & Answer
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When will I see results?
Because the lasers implement your own body’s ability to rejuvenate itself, it may be up to six months before final results appear.
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How long do fractional laser resurfacing results last?
Depending on the treatment, results can last for several years. Sun protection, a healthy diet, and minimizing alcohol and smoking can help you maintain your results for a longer period of time.
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Can fractional laser resurfacing be performed year round?
Yes, as long as you wear a sunblock with a minimum 30 SPF, and cover or protect the treated areas from the sun.
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How long do fractional laser resurfacing treatments take?
Treatment lasts about 30 minutes for the face. It may be shorter or longer for other areas of the body.
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Can numbing be applied?
Yes. A topical numbing agent can be applied 30 minutes before the treatment to help prevent discomfort.
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Who performs the fractional laser resurfacing treatment?
You’ll be treated by one of our certified medical aestheticians who have been trained on the laser, and have experience treating all skin types.
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How do I prepare for fractional laser resurfacing treatments?
You must stay out of the sun for two weeks prior to treatment. You must also stop stop taking any photosensitive antibiotics, or using any skin care products that contain harsh ingredients such as: retinol, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and hydroquinone.
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How many fractional laser resurfacing sessions will I need?
The number of sessions will vary based on the severity of your skin condition, the area of your body being treated, and your skin type. On average, six to eight sessions are needed to achieve optimal results. Sessions are usually performed three to four weeks apart, based on your skin type. Maintenance sessions may be required in a few years to keep up results.
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How long is the healing process?
The recovery period depends on your skin sensitivity level. The treated area is usually red for two to four days, with minor swelling and a “tight” feeling. Usually, as your sessions progress, the laser settings are adjusted higher to give you the most promising results. Therefore, the healing periods for your first and last sessions may be different.
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Who is not a good candidate for fractional laser resurfacing?
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, patients who are on certain photosensitive medications, and patients who have a history of poor wound healing may not be considered for any laser resurfacing treatment. If you have further questions about this, please contact us.
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If I am tanned, can I have fractional laser resurfacing treatments?
No. You must wait at least two weeks after being intensely exposed to the sun. Also, if you are going to be tanning in the sun after your treatment, make sure to schedule your appointment a minimum of two weeks in advance. Always make sure to wear a minimum 30 SPF, even on days when it is cloudy. Extreme sun exposure and laser treatments are not a good mix.
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How can I maintain my results?
Sun protection is crucial to keeping the results of your fractional treatments from diminishing. Also, maintaining a healthy diet, minimizing your alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking will help. It is important to also stay hydrated and to moisturize with medical grade skin care products like the ones we carry.