What is Fractional Laser Treatment?
Fractional laser is a technique used to rejuvenate and smooth the skin and treat scars. The fractional laser works by dividing the laser into small microbeams that peel and heat the skin in small, dot-like areas, creating microscopic heat damage to the skin. This smooths the skin and stimulates the rejuvenation process by increasing collagen and elastin production. As the result, the skin is smoother, firm, and more youthful.
In Muotosairaala, we use the Deka DuoGlide fractional dual laser that won the title of “Best Laser, Lights, & Energy-based Device”. DuoGlide provides the possibility to combine the traditional fractional ablative carbon dioxide laser with the fractional non-ablative 1540 nm laser. In combination treatment, higher collagen stimulation is achieved through the better heat impact, often leading to better results. A non-ablative laser can be used by itself as well.
What Might Fractional Laser Treatment Help With?
- Acne scars
- Surgical scars (can be used as an aesthetic treatment to promote beautiful healing as well)
- Burn scars
- Furrows, wrinkles, and the skin’s aging
- Preventing surface level changes from aging.
Fractional Laser Treatment
An appointment before treatment is necessary. During the appointment, the suitability of the treatment is confirmed, and a personalized treatment plan is curated specifically for you and your skin type.
If needed, a pre-treatment is started to prepare your skin for the treatment, maximize the result of the laser treatment, and minimize side effects.
Because fractional laser treatment can be painful, (at least) local anesthesia and pain medication are used.
More information
After Treatment
The treatment always causes redness, swelling and later peeling of the skin. The skin must be carefully protected from the sun, and SPF 50+ sunscreen must be used for at least 2 months after the treatment.
Recovery time depends on the extent and intensity of the treatment and the skin area treated. Recovery time on the face is usually 5–8 days. Post-treatment redness may last from a couple of weeks to a few months.
The final results of the treatment can only be seen after 4–6 months. In scar treatments, achieving a good treatment result always requires several treatment sessions.
Risks of Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser Treatment
Fractional laser is a safe treatment method when performed by skilled professionals, and the risk of scarring is extremely low. In practice, the risk is limited to situations where an infection develops in the treated area after treatment.
Possible rare side effects include infection, prolonged redness, or hyperpigmentation in the treated area. These side effects can be treated.
The treatment is not recommended during pregnancy.
Ablative fractional laser treatment is not suitable for darker skin.
