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Number 6 Cosmetic Dermatology

C. Laser & Energy Devices

Number 1 Skin Cancer & Pre-Cancer Care
Number 1 Medical Dermatology
(Chronic & Inflammatory Skin Diseases)
Number 3 Pigment & Lesion Disorders
Number 4 Non-Cancer Growth
Number 5 Surgical Dermatology (Non-Cancer Procedures)
Number 6 Cosmetic Dermatology
A. Anti-wrinkle Injections
B. Dermal Fillers
  1. RHA Redensity — Fine Lines & Skin Refinement
  2. RHA 2 — Moderate Wrinkles & Smile Lines
  3. RHA 3 — Deeper Wrinkles & Lip Enhancement
  4. RHA 4 — Deep Folds, Volume & Facial Contouring
C. Laser & Energy Devices
D. Cosmetic Pigment Correction
Fractional Laser Resurfacing PDF

• Fractional Laser Resurfacing

(Advanced laser treatment to improve skin texture, tone, and scars)

What Is Fractional Laser?

Fractional laser is a skin-resurfacing treatment that uses laser energy to create thousands of microscopic treatment zones in the skin, while leaving surrounding skin intact. This “fractional” approach helps the skin heal faster while stimulating collagen renewal.

Fractional lasers are used to improve:

  • Acne scars and surgical scars

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Uneven skin texture

  • Sun damage and discoloration

  • Enlarged pores

  • Overall skin quality and firmness

Your dermatologist will select the type and intensity of fractional laser based on your skin type, concerns, and downtime preference.

How Fractional Laser Works (Simple Explanation)

  • The laser creates tiny, controlled columns of heat in the skin

  • This triggers the body’s natural healing response

  • New collagen forms over time

  • Skin gradually looks smoother, firmer, and more even

Because untreated skin remains between treated areas, healing is more efficient than with traditional full-field resurfacing.

What to Expect During Treatment

Fractional laser treatments are performed in the office.

During your visit:

  1. Skin is cleansed and prepped

  2. Topical numbing cream is applied (when appropriate)

  3. Laser passes are delivered to the treatment area

  4. Cooling and soothing products are applied afterward

Treatment time varies by area but often takes 30–60 minutes.

When Will I See Results?

  • Initial improvement may be seen once healing is complete

  • Collagen remodeling continues for weeks to months

  • Results improve gradually and look natural

Some patients benefit from a series of treatments, while others achieve goals with a single session depending on laser type and intensity.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Fractional laser may be a good option if you:

  • Want improvement in texture, scars, or fine lines

  • Can avoid sun exposure during healing

  • Understand that results are gradual and improve over time

It may not be ideal if you:

  • Have active infection or inflammation in the area

  • Are prone to significant pigment changes without careful planning

  • Cannot avoid sun exposure during recovery

Your dermatologist will determine if fractional laser is safe and appropriate for your skin type.

Pre-Op Instructions (Before Fractional Laser)

2–4 weeks before treatment

  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning (including self-tanner)

  • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily

  • Avoid tanning beds

1–2 weeks before

  • Stop retinoids, exfoliating acids, and harsh scrubs in the treatment area (unless instructed otherwise)

  • Tell us if you:

    • Have a history of cold sores (preventive medication may be recommended)

    • Have a history of dark marks after irritation (PIH)

    • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

    • Have active skin infection, rash, or open wounds

Day of treatment

  • Arrive with clean skin (no makeup, lotion, or sunscreen on the area)

  • Avoid waxing or threading the area before treatment

Post-Op Instructions (After Fractional Laser)

What’s normal

  • Redness and warmth (similar to a sunburn)

  • Swelling (especially around the eyes)

  • Dryness, flaking, or bronzing as skin heals

  • Mild discomfort or tightness

Healing time depends on laser intensity and may range from a few days to about 1–2 weeks.

Aftercare

  • Use only gentle cleanser and bland moisturizer as directed

  • Avoid picking, scrubbing, or exfoliating

  • Avoid hot showers, saunas, and intense exercise for 24–48 hours

  • Strict sun protection is critical during healing

  • Do not use active skincare (retinoids, acids) until cleared by your provider

Makeup

  • May be applied once the skin surface has healed (timing varies)

Call the office if

  • You develop blistering, pus, increasing pain, or fever

  • You notice worsening pigmentation instead of gradual improvement

  • Redness or swelling is severe or worsening after the expected healing window

Frequently Ashked Questions

Is fractional laser painful?

Topical numbing significantly improves comfort. Patients describe warmth or pressure during treatment.

Downtime varies. Some treatments have minimal downtime, while others require several days to a week of recovery.

This depends on your goals. Some patients need 1 session, others benefit from a series spaced weeks apart.

Yes—fractional laser is commonly used to soften acne scars and improve skin texture over time.

It can improve fine lines and skin firmness by stimulating collagen. Deeper wrinkles may require combination treatments.

In some skin types, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) can occur. Careful laser selection, proper aftercare, and sun protection reduce this risk.

Often yes. It’s commonly combined with:

    • Medical-grade skincare

    • Neuromodulators (Botox® / Daxxify®)

    • Dermal fillers (timing is important)