Glossary

Fractional laser

A method that delivers the laser beam not to the whole skin but split into many small points; the healthy tissue in between speeds up healing. It is used for acne scars, fine lines and uneven texture; recovery time varies depending on the device and settings used.

Articles that mention this term

Start With a ConcernDark Spots and Melasma: Causes, When to See a Physician and What Treatments Are AvailableWhat sun spots, melasma and post-inflammatory spots are, when to see a physician, why sun protection is essential and what treatments are available.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardTreatment GuidesHIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound): How Effective Is Non-Surgical Tightening?How non-surgical skin tightening with HIFU works, who it suits, how noticeable the results are and what the risks are. A patient guide.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardStart With a ConcernAcne Scars: Types, Treatment Options and Realistic ExpectationsTypes of acne scars, the difference between marks and scars, treating active acne first, and realistic expectations from laser, peels and microneedling.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardTreatment GuidesFractional Laser: How Suitable Is It for Acne Scars, Wrinkles and Skin Texture?How ablative and non-ablative fractional lasers work, what to expect for acne scars and wrinkles, recovery and pigmentation risk. A patient guide.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardTreatment GuidesRadiofrequency Skin Tightening and Radiofrequency Microneedling: What Can You Expect?How do radiofrequency and radiofrequency microneedling work, who are they suitable for, how many sessions are needed, what are the risks? A patient guide.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardGuidesSkin Care and Medical Aesthetics in Your 40s: Volume, Elasticity and Realistic ExpectationsChanges in volume and elasticity in your 40s, the role of skin care, combined approaches and realistic expectations of medical aesthetic procedures.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardSafety CentreBurns and Pigmentation Changes after Laser and IPL: Darkening, Lightening and Scarring — Prevention and What to DoWhy do burns and dark spots occur after laser and IPL, how long do they last? Blisters, darkening, lightening, scars, eye risk: what is normal, what to do.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardStart With a ConcernMedical Aesthetics for Active Acne: Do Peels, Light Therapy and Facials Help While You Have Spots?The evidence for chemical peels, blue light, laser, comedone extraction and facials in active acne. Medical treatment first; procedures to postpone.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert Board

Full glossary

This content is for information only and does not replace an examination or medical assessment. Ask your physician about your own situation.

This section contains no advertising, sponsored content or prices. Editorial Principles