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Treatment

ProFractional Laser

ProFractional uses deep ablative fractional channels to stimulate significant collagen remodelling for acne scarring and textural concerns. Learn what to expect.

APR 20 2026

Overview

ProFractional is an ablative fractional laser that creates narrow, deep channels in the skin to drive significant collagen remodelling. It is particularly effective for acne scarring and deeper textural concerns, with depth and density adjustable to match both your skin's needs and your available recovery time.

What's going on beneath the skin

Acne scarring, deep textural irregularities, and significant photoageing involve structural changes in the dermis that sit below what lighter treatments can reach. The scar tissue and disrupted collagen need a meaningful healing response to improve, not just surface-level resurfacing.

ProFractional laser creates narrow, deep channels through the skin at a controlled density. Each channel triggers a localised wound-healing response, stimulating new collagen production at depth. Because only a fraction of the skin is treated at a time, the healthy tissue between channels supports recovery. The depth and density can be adjusted, which is what allows your provider to balance how aggressive the treatment is against how much recovery time you have.

Daily & Ongoing Care

At-home care:

  • SPF 50 or higher daily once the skin has healed. UV exposure significantly increases the risk of post-treatment pigmentation changes.
  • Keep the skin well moisturised throughout the healing period with a gentle, bland product
  • Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids, and active ingredients for at least 1 to 2 weeks post-treatment
  • Avoid heat, saunas, pools, and strenuous exercise for the first week
  • Do not pick at or pull peeling skin. Let it shed on its own.

Before treatment:

  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for 4 to 6 weeks before treatment
  • Stop retinoids and exfoliating acids 5 to 7 days before your appointment
  • If you have a history of cold sores, discuss antiviral medication with your provider beforehand
  • Arrive with clean, product-free skin

Targeted Solutions

Acne scarring

Deep textural irregularities

Deep wrinkles

Enlarged pores

Photoageing

Uneven skin texture and tone

What to expect

During treatment

A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand, and additional local anaesthetic may be used for more aggressive settings. Most patients feel a warm, prickling sensation during the session. Mild pinpoint bleeding at the treatment sites is normal. Sessions run 30 to 60 minutes.

After treatment

Redness and swelling are most pronounced in the first 2 to 3 days, with a sunburn-like sensation common in this window. Over days 4 to 7, the skin peels and flakes as the surface heals over the treated channels. Most patients are comfortable in public by day 7 to 10, though some residual pinkness may linger a little longer.

Results timeline

Improvement in texture and scarring becomes visible once the skin has healed, typically within 1 to 2 weeks. Collagen remodelling continues beneath the surface for 3 to 6 months, and this is when the most significant improvements in scar depth and skin quality become apparent.

Vos Score

VOS Score

Worth the Hype

A strong option for common aesthetic goals, with meaningful benefits for the right patient.

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Offered at these locations

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Closest to you

Oakville Skin

1344 Cornwall Rd Oakville, Ontario, Canada

(905) 842-2525 contactus@oakvilleskin.com

2KM

Toronto Dermatology Centre

4256 Bathurst Street #400 Toronto, Ontario, Canada

+1 416-633-0001 info@torontodermatologycentre.com

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