FRACTIONAL RESURFACING

Fractional resurfacing is a skin-rejuvenation treatment that uses a fractional laser (an Er:YAG 2940 nm fractional laser) to gently remove damaged skin cells and trigger natural skin renewal.

Rather than treating the entire surface, the laser creates many tiny micro-injuries (“micro-columns”) in the skin; surrounding skin remains intact to support faster healing.

Fractional resurfacing can help with a variety of skin concerns, including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Uneven skin texture (roughness, uneven tone, visible pores)

• Scars (e.g. acne scars, light scarring)

• Hyperpigmentation, sun spots, age spots, uneven pigmentation

• Skin laxity / loss of firmness and radiance (by stimulating collagen production)

In short: fractional resurfacing aims to improve tone, texture, smoothness, reduce scars, fine lines, pigmentation issues, and give more youthful-looking skin.

• During treatment, the laser emits many tiny “fractional” laser beams to create micro-injuries in targeted zones of the skin (micro-columns), while leaving surrounding tissue intact.

• This controlled injury prompts the skin’s natural healing: the body replaces damaged cells with fresh, healthy ones, producing new collagen and prompting skin regeneration — leading to smoother, firmer, more even skin.

• Because only a fraction of the skin is “treated” at a time, healing tends to be faster compared to full ablative resurfacing.

Fractional resurfacing can be applied to many areas of the face and body — wherever improvements in texture, pigmentation, scarring, or skin quality are desired. Many clinics offer it for: face, neck, hands.

We will assess skin condition and suitability for non-facial areas if needed.

Good candidates are those who:

• Want to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, pigmentation, scars, or signs of aging

• Seek a more youthful, refreshed skin look without invasive surgery

• Understand that multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results

Because fractional resurfacing is customizable (depth and intensity adjustable) and designed to minimize residual damage, it's often safe for a range of Fitspatrick skin types 1-5.

During the consultation, we will evaluate skin type, concerns, medical history, and suitability.

• It varies with each clients needs, but multiple sessions are often required, spaced several weeks apart (often 4–6 weeks) for optimal results.

• For more pronounced skin issues (scars, deeper texture problems, pigmentation), additional sessions may be needed.

• Long-lasting results can be achieved in as few as 1 to 3 sessions (depending on the patient’s needs and chosen settings).

After fractional resurfacing (and with full treatment course), you can expect:

• Smoother, more even skin texture

• Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

• Fading of pigmentation spots, uneven tone

• Improved skin firmness and radiance (due to collagen stimulation)

• Reduction in the visibility of scars or scars being less noticeable (depending on depth/severity)

Some clients notice visible improvement after the first treatment; more substantial, long-term improvements build over a series of sessions.

Fractional resurfacing is not completely painless, but we use a topical numbing cream beforehand to make the treatment much more comfortable. During the treatment, you can expect a hot, prickling or snapping sensation, similar to tiny pinpricks across the skin. Areas with thinner or more sensitive skin, such as around the eyes and upper lip, can feel more intense.

The heat can build as we work over an area, but the treatment is generally quite tolerable with proper numbing and cooling. Afterward, your skin will feel hot, tight and sunburn-like for a few hours, with sensitivity gradually settling over the following days.

Because fractional resurfacing treats only a portion of the skin surface at a time (micro-columns), it tends to be gentler than CO2 or full ablative resurfacing.

Yes, but usually mild to moderate, and recovery tends to be faster than CO2 or fully ablative lasers.

Typical post-treatment effects:

• Redness, mild swelling, maybe slight “tight” or “sunburned” feeling for a few days. Some dryness, flaking, or light peeling may occur depending on the intensity.

Many people are able to return to light daily activities within a day or two — but for more aggressive settings or sensitive skin, social downtime might be 3–5 days.

To get the best outcome and minimize risk:

• Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning for at least 1–2 weeks before treatment.

• Discontinue harsh skincare products (strong exfoliants, retinoids, acids) a week before treatment.

• Ensure skin is clean, hydrated, and not irritated on the day of treatment.

• We may apply a topical numbing cream prior to the procedure to improve comfort.

Post-treatment care is important:

• Expect mild redness or sensitivity — treat gently. Use cool compresses if needed.

• Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, or self-tanners for at least 1–2 weeks (or as instructed). Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+).

• Avoid harsh exfoliants, retinoids, strong acids, and abrasive products until skin is healed (often 5–7 days).

• Keep skin moisturized and protected.

• Depending on aftercare and treatment intensity — avoid hot baths/saunas, heavy exercise, or abrasive treatments until skin recovers.

If recommended, schedule follow-up or maintenance sessions to continue improvement.

Yes. One benefit of our system is its multi-modality design, which means providers can combine fractional resurfacing with other treatments (e.g., radio-frequency tightening, infrared treatments, skin rejuvenation, or vascular/pigment correction) depending on your goals.

• Some clients notice improvement after the first session, particularly in skin “glow,” subtle smoothness, and firmness.

• More visible and lasting improvements — smoother texture, reduced scars/pigmentation, better tone — generally appear after several sessions and within a few weeks to months, as collagen remodeling continues.

Because skin naturally renews gradually, full results often unfold over time.

Fractional resurfacing does not “stop aging,” but it can provide long-lasting skin rejuvenation. Collagen renewal, improved skin structure, smoother texture, and reduced pigmentation or scars can persist — especially with good skin care, sun protection, and healthy lifestyle.

However, like all skin treatments, aging, sun exposure, and lifestyle factors still affect skin over time — occasional maintenance sessions and ongoing skincare help preserve results.

Fractional resurfacing (Er:YAG 2940 nm) is designed to be relatively safe and customizable, with settings that can be adjusted to suit different skin types.

However, individuals with active skin conditions, darker skin tones, a history of abnormal scarring, or certain medical conditions such as autoimmune conditions, diabetes, active cancer should exercise caution or seek alternative treatments. Sun exposure and photosensitizing medications should be avoided 4-6 weeks prior to appointments. Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have melasma should also consult a physician prior to booking a consultation.

That said — as with any laser treatment — it’s important to assess your skin, customize settings, and provide proper pre- & post-treatment care to maximize safety and results.