Fractional Laser Resurfacing
What is Fractional Laser Resurfacing?
Fractional laser resurfacing refers to the process of creating individual vertical channels of injury into the skin, leaving the majority of the skin intact. Through this process, the thermal channels created by the laser breaks down scar tissue and damaged skin, stimulating a natural healing response. By using laser energy that penetrates into the deep dermal layers of the skin, collagen production is stimulated, thereby closing in the open channels and creating a stronger, healthier foundation to the skin. Similar to aerating your lawn, it creates small areas of injury which stimulates the process of developing healthier skin. This type of technology is used to treat all types of scarring, but is also used as a preventative treatment to stimulate collagen growth to replace the collagen that we lose through the natural aging process.
Our Fractional Lasers
Fractional laser treatments have become popular among patients aged 25 to 60 and older. This modality is capable of addressing several cosmetic concerns, including:
- Acne scars, including hyperpigmentation and depressed acne scarring
Textural irregularities - Fine lines
- Traumatic scarring, including burns and surgical scars
Stretch marks - Sun damage and age spots
- Uneven skin tone
Our Fractional Lasers
In our office, we have two different types of fractional lasers. The Ultrapulse Co2 Deep Fx Laser is the premier, state of the art laser technology that creates thermal injury leading to dermal repair. The SP Dynamis Erbium Fotona Laser is the newest generation of fractional laser technology that allows us to adjust the amount of heat and depth of injury, which is important in preventing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin types. Both of these lasers allow us to adjust the amount of energy that is required when treating specific types of injuries to the skin. As only a “fraction” of the skin is damaged, the treatment is less painful and the healing response and the recovery is much quicker than with fully ablative procedures. We can also adjust the density (number of channels of injury) with each pass, using higher density in more damaged areas and lower density in less damaged areas. As the majority of the skin remains intact, there is also much less risk of infection or other complications.
What are the benefits of The Ultrapulse Co2 Deep Fx Laser?
Deep Fx laser treatment targets the deep dermal layers of the skin with traditional CO2 laser energy divided into microbeams. The fractionated beams of light stimulate a healing response that results in new collagen formation and tissue regeneration. Because only a portion of the skin is affected, the skin heals nicely within a few days.
Positive effects of Deep Fx treatment include smoother skin, more uniform skin tone and texture, and plumpness related to the infusion of collagen.
What are the benefits of The SP Dynamis Erbium Fotona Laser?
Which Fractional Laser is Best for Me?
Fractional Laser Treatments
With fractional laser resurfacing, multiple treatment sessions will be required to effectively breakdown the scar tissue and stimulate collagen growth. However, there will be an immediate improvement to the overall texture and tone of the skin. As the full process of collagen remodelling and stimulating new collagen production is gradual, patients will continue to see ongoing improvement for a full 6 months following the last procedure. When treating scars with this type of fractional technology, a realistic goal is a 50% level of improvement after 3 treatments sessions. For deeper scars, injectable hyaluronic acid fillers may be required to fill in atrophic scars. Although the fillers are not permanent and will eventually be broken down by the body’s natural processes, these type of scars tend to have some longer term, permanent improvement as the scar tissue is stretched during the injectable filler process.
For preventative treatments to stimulate collagen production and minimize the aging process, the best results are obtained by combining annual in office laser procedures, with a high quality medical grade topical regime. This will include a topical retinol, that stimulates epidermal cell turnover leading to healthier, younger looking skin.
How long does Fractional Laser Resurfacing take?
How do I care for my Skin After Fractional Laser Resurfacing?
Post-treatment skin care is an important aspect of achieving the best results from fractional laser resurfacing. Patients receive clear instructions from their provider but can expect to care for their skin in ways that include:
- Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the skin (always with a thin towel in between ice and the skin) to manage swelling.
- Moisturizing with a protective, occlusive ointment such as Vaseline or Aquaphor. The ointment should be applied after using a gentle cleanser. This continues for the first 2 days of healing.
- A gentle moisturizing may be used starting 5 days after treatment.
- A normal skincare routine may be resumed approximately 14 days after treatment.
If you have undergone laser treatment in our office and have questions about how to care for your skin, contact us for friendly assistance.
Are there any risks of Fractional Laser Resurfacing?
Is Fractional Laser Resurfacing Safe?
Because fractional lasers affect only a portion of the skin, they are known to achieve optimal results with a shorter amount of downtime than traditional laser resurfacing. If you are concerned about the effects of laser treatment, talk to your provider about having multiple treatments at lower energy settings.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about Fractional Laser Resurfacing, contact Remington Laser Dermatology Centre today. To contact Dr. Kent Remington, call 403-252-7784. To call Dr. Todd Remington, call 403-255-1633.
