What is a fractional laser?
A fractional laser is a noninvasive aesthetic laser that uses innovative laser energy to improve the look of your skin. The fractional laser treats both the epidermal (outer) and dermal (inner) layers of your skin.
The lines and wrinkles that appear on your skin result from changes that affect your skin’s epidermal and dermal layers. As you get older, your epidermal layer becomes thinner, drier, and less pliable, making it more vulnerable to permanent lines and creases.
Your dermal layer also thins and loses its strength and durability caused by a slow down in collagen production.
With the fractional laser, the Aesthetic and Clinical Dermatology Associates team addresses both layers of skin to give you immediate and long-term results. The laser stimulates cell turnover in your epidermal layer and activates collagen production in the dermal layer.
What can a fractional laser treat?
The Aesthetic and Clinical Dermatology Associates team uses the fractional laser as an anti-aging tool. You can benefit from the innovative aesthetic treatment if you have concerns about:
- Lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage
- Hyperpigmentation (also called photodamage)
- Acne scars
- Surgical scars
- Enlarged pores
The laser tool is safe to use on many areas of the body, including the face, neck, chest, and hands.
What can I expect during treatment with a fractional laser?
Aesthetic and Clinical Dermatology Associates does your fractional laser treatment at the office. While you lie back in the exam chair, your dermatologist first cleanses your skin and applies a topical numbing agent to reduce discomfort during your session.
Your dermatologist then places the fractional laser hand-held tool over your skin and activates the device. The length of your session depends on the area undergoing treatment. For example, a full-face treatment takes about 30 minutes.
What happens after treatment with a fractional laser?
After treatment, you could feel a slight burning sensation, like a mild sunburn, but these side effects disappear quickly. You can expect swelling, redness, and sloughing of the skin over the next 4-5 days.
Despite the side effects, there’s no need for downtime following your fractional laser treatment.
You should see a distinct improvement in your skin after one fractional laser treatment. However, the Aesthetic and Clinical Dermatology Associates team recommends a series of sessions every 1-4 weeks for the best results.
To schedule your fractional laser consultation at Aesthetic and Clinical Dermatology Associates, call the office most convenient to you today or request an appointment online.
