Home » Skin Blog » Medical Cosmetic Treatment » Fractional Ablative Laser vs. Fractional Non-Ablative Laser: A New Choice for Beautiful Skin

With the continuous advancement of cosmetic technology, laser treatment has become an important method for many people seeking beautiful skin. In this article, we will delve into two popular laser treatments: fractional ablative laser and fractional non-ablative laser, comparing their effects and side effects to help you choose the most suitable option.

Fractional ablative laser and fractional non-ablative laser are two common laser techniques found in beauty clinics today. However, their mechanisms and treatment effects differ significantly. The fractional non-ablative laser is a non-ablative laser primarily based on 1550 nm erbium glass laser. This technique does not cause direct damage to the skin’s surface, which leads to a lack of visible vaporization effect during the treatment, significantly shortening the recovery period.

On the other hand, the fractional ablative laser utilizes CO2 laser technology, a long-established cosmetic method. In comparison to the fractional non-ablative laser, the fractional ablative laser provides deeper treatment to the skin’s surface and effectively removes skin imperfections, including stubborn acne scars and enlarged pores. The CO2 laser can be converted into different modes, with the resurfacing mode being considered a more thorough option. During the treatment, the physician will adjust the laser coverage based on the patient’s skin condition to achieve the best therapeutic effect.

Although the effects of fractional ablative laser are quite noticeable, the skin may temporarily show redness and hyperpigmentation after the procedure, which is particularly common among Asians. Most hyperpigmentation will self-resolve within three to six months, and the redness will improve with time. If redness persists, the physician can provide further treatment recommendations, such as using vascular lasers for assistance.

So, which laser is more suitable for you? Choosing the best option depends on your skin condition and personal expectations. If you are dealing with boxcar-shaped acne scars, fractional ablative laser may offer more significant improvement. Even if multiple procedures are required, the final results often leave patients feeling satisfied. In contrast, if you are simply looking for mild skin maintenance without enduring much pain or downtime, the fractional non-ablative laser may be a more suitable choice.

Before deciding on which laser technology to use, it is recommended to consult with a professional physician. They can provide personalized advice and treatment plans based on your skin type and needs. Regardless of which laser therapy you ultimately choose, maintaining good skincare habits and a healthy lifestyle will help enhance your skin’s self-repair ability, leading to more radiant skin.