Fractal laser skin treatment uses a device called a fractional laser to resurface aged or damaged skin through a process called fractional photothermolysis. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) describes this process as a non-ablative technique, meaning that instead of removing the top layer of skin entirely, it uses heat on targeted areas of the skin and works with the body's natural healing response, causing the collagen remodeling that leads to softer, younger-looking skin.
Good Candidates
Fractal skin treatments can be used to treat a wide variety of skin problems, including damage caused by over-exposure to the sun, acne scars, age spots and pigmentation issues such as melasma. It can also treat fine to moderate wrinkles, including those around the eyes, but may not work as well on deeper wrinkles. This treatment is not for those looking for an instant fix. Each fractal laser treatment session covers about 20 percent of the skin and usually requires four or more visits with 2 to 4 weeks between each one, according to UAB Health Systems in Alabama.
The Procedure
Fractal skin resurfacing is performed in a dermatologist office. About an hour before the procedure, the patient's skin is cleansed and a numbing cream is applied, according to the DermaNetwork. The precise fractional lasers create tiny wounds on the targeted area of the top layer of skin, the epidermis. The wounds activate the natural healing process within the body, triggering a collagen remodeling response in the sub-layer of skin, the dermis, leading to the creation of new skin while leaving the surrounding area intact. Because the laser is so precise and does not damage the entire epidermis, healing time is drastically decreased compared to the more invasive ablative lasers.
After the Procedure
The most common side effects of fractal skin treatments are redness and swelling during the first few days. Skin may also look and feel sunburned. The redness usually fades into a bronzed appearance similar to a tan after several days. Other possible side effects include itchiness, dryness and peeling or flaking. Moisturizing cream may help reduce these side effects. Patients are advised to wear sunscreen with at least a SPF 30 and avoid direct sunlight during the first three months following the procedure.
Contraindications
Fractional lasers carry very few risks, but the ASDS cautions patients with other medical conditions to be evaluated by their primary physician before undergoing the procedure. Those taking corticosteroids also need to be cleared prior to the procedure, as steroids suppress the immune system response and can increase the risk of infection. Patients with a history of herpes may need to be put on antiviral medications as a precautionary measure.
Cost
The average cost of fractal skin treatment ranges from $800 to $1000 per session, according to DermaNetwork. This cost can vary depending on the patient and the clinic, so be certain to discuss all fees prior to scheduling the procedure. Because it is considered cosmetic surgery, it will likely not be covered by health insurance, although you should carefully review your policy to make sure. Some dermatologist offices also offer payment plans.
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