Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
ProFractional is a fractional erbium laser made by Sciton. It creates tiny channels in the skin, and the surrounding skin heals them with new collagen, which smooths texture and softens scars and lines.
The depth can be adjusted from light to deep, so your provider can match the treatment to your skin and how much downtime you can plan for.
Avoid tanning and direct sun for a week or two before treatment. Stop retinoids a few days before unless your provider tells you otherwise. If you get cold sores, we may give you medicine to take before your visit.
Numbing cream is applied first. The laser is passed over the treatment area, and most sessions take 30 to 45 minutes.
Downtime depends on depth. Lighter treatments bring redness and pinpoint marks for a few days. Deeper treatments can take about a week to heal. Keep the skin moisturized and protected from the sun.
Texture improves as the skin heals, and collagen keeps building for several months. Scars often need a series of treatments.
A fractional erbium laser that creates tiny channels in the skin to trigger healing and new collagen.
The depth is adjustable. Your provider will choose settings based on your concerns and how much downtime you can plan for.
Numbing cream is applied first. Most people feel heat and prickling during treatment.
From a few days for light treatments to about a week for deeper ones.
It depends on your concern. Scars and deeper lines often need a series of treatments.
Your provider will look at your skin type and history and tell you whether ProFractional or another option is best.