Fractional Lasers for Skin Resurfacing 

Laser skin resurfacing is used to help reduce wrinkles, scars and sun damage and can additionally tighten skin. To accomplish these goals, our dermatologists can use ‘fractional’ laser systems to rejuvenate the skin. The fractional lasers send laser energy in microscopic columns of heat into the dermis, while leaving surrounding skin untouched. This energy heats up the collagen and stimulates neocollagenesis, which is the process of new collagen formation. Collagen is what gives skin its elasticity, and as we age, the loss of collagen contributes to thinner, looser and more wrinkled skin. The added benefit of delivering this heat through a fractionated system is that the skin heals much faster.

At Physicians Laser and Dermatology Institute, we have two forms of fractional lasers—ablative and non-ablative. Ablative lasers remove part of the epidermis and upper dermis, making them very effective for rough skin and wrinkles. The more aggressive skin resurfacing lends itself to a slightly longer recovery period (generally 7-10 days) than nonablative treatment.
Nonablative lasers heat and stimulate the dermis and collagen, while leaving the epidermis uninjured. These systems can produce impressive results and allow the skin to produce more collagen for a smoother, younger look. As there is no ablation of the epidermis, the recovery time is shorter and easier—most patients remain a little red and swollen for 3-5 days.
Our dermatologists can discuss which system is the best and safest for your skin type and needs.

A series of treatments are performed every 4-6 weeks. We treat the face, especially focusing on fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth, and additionally can treat the neck, chest and other areas of the body.

Click here to read more about our fractional laser systems.
Click here to contact us for a consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists.