+ Am I a good candidate for Fractional Laser?

Fractional Laser can be performed on most skin types, which means it’s extremely likely that you will be a perfect match!

However, Fractional Laser might not be the best choice for patients with melasma – a complex form of hyperpigmentation. Symptoms of melasma can worsen under the effects of a Fractional Laser. It is also not ideal for treatment areas with active acne, open wounds or infection.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, your treatment should be postponed to a later date. Dr. Hegmann will address any questions or concerns you may have during your consultation.

+ Does the treatment hurt?

Palomar's Advanced Contact Cooling System continuously cools the area as it is being treated, which greatly increases the client's comfort. You will still feel some mild discomfort - some describe it as tiny pinpricks of heat, but most find this quite tolerable. Depending on the type of fractional treatment, a topical numbing cream may be applied for additional comfort.

+ How many treatments will I need and when will I see results?

Fractional Laser Resurfacing usually requires multiple sessions, depending on the type of treatment. Most patients need 1 to 4 treatments, each separated by 1 month, to achieve the maximum benefit. Many patients begin to see results in a little as a few days, but, because the fractional treatment is stimulating your body's own healing response, it can take up to three months to see the full effect.

+ How long does each treatment take?

Depending on the size of the treatment area, a single treatment could take anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour. For example, a full face usually takes around 60 minutes. On average, one session normally lasts approximately 30 minutes. Severe scarring – for example, surgical scars – may take slightly longer.

+ Are results permanent? How long do they last?

With the proper care and a little patience, Fractional Laser gives patients dramatic results that can last for several years. However, aging and exposure to the elements are unavoidable. The results are not permanent, and the procedure may need to be repeated to maintain the maximum result.

+ Is there any downtime? Will I have to take time off work?

Fractional Laser is considered one of the most convenient laser resurfacing methods because most patients are able to resume normal activities after only 24 to 48 hours. There are, naturally, exceptions to the rule – following the treatment of a particularly aggressive issue, the treatment area may take several days to fully heal. In rare cases, mild bruising may occur, which can take 7 to 12 days to heal.

The amount of down time needed ultimately depends on the patient’s skin type and how well they care for the treatment site in the days and weeks following their appointment. Dr. Hegmann will be happy to provide patients with aftercare instructions during their consultation, and on the day of their appointment.

+ Can I wear makeup after my Fractional Laser treatment?

After 12 hours, patients may resume wearing makeup to cover up any redness or flaking that could result from the treatment. Mild, unscented moisturizers and cleansers are also fine to use. However, it’s important to remember that the treatment site is still healing and is therefore at a higher risk for infection.

Avoid harsh, perfumed products, including exfoliating scrubs and cleansers containing microbeads or medications. Ensure your makeup brushes are cleaned and disinfected before use. It is also helpful to use new makeup to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Patients can resume their normal skincare and beauty routines when the treatment area has fully healed – this normally takes 1 to 3 months.

+ Is Fractional Laser safe? What about side effects?

Like most cosmetic procedures, Fractional Laser treatments do pose a risk for mild side effects, including:

• Mild burning (similar to a sunburn)
• Redness (this is temporary and should dissipate after 7 to 12 days)
• Hyperpigmentation (appears as a ‘bronzed’ look in the weeks following treatment)
• Swelling (if this occurs, it should go down after approximately 24 hours)
• Small bumps or rash (this normally occurs during the flaking process and is also temporary)
• Infection (this is rare – if the site becomes infected, contact Dr. Hegmann)
• Scarring

By following Dr. Hegmann’s pre- and post-care instructions, patients will greatly reduce their risk of side effects. Avoiding tobacco and alcohol for at least 30 days before and after your treatment will also reduce the risk of side effects. Patients may be prescribed a precautionary antibiotic, depending on their medical history.

It is important to discuss any medical conditions you may have, as well as all medications you take (including Aspirin and Ibuprofen) with Dr. Hegmann during your consultation. Certain medications can increase the risk of bleeding.