“Fractional laser treatment for enlarged pores, fine lines and sun damage”

I am 34 and just completed my first of 3 fractional laser treatments (same kind of laser as Fraxel, only Fraxel is the specific brand name) I decided to get the fractional laser treatments for the following issues: enlarged pores, redness, very mild acne scars/discoloration (mainly from picking) and fine lines around mouth/naso-labial folds.

The procedure feels very much like when you accidentally burn your wrist or arm on the side of a hot pan- the stinging and tightness afterwards is very uncomfortable but it dissipates within an hour or so and you are left with what feels like a moderate sunburn. If you are super pain sensitive (I am not) prepare yourself mentally, but don't take painkillers as they can thin the blood. Just think of every "zap" erasing all the things you don't like about your skin and that helps! My skin was red and then turned a bronze color and is a little tight feeling.

It's day 2 and I'm staying indoors to avoid the sun but feel fine appearing in public- the level of swelling/redness present depends not only on your skin type but on how deep of a laser treatment you are getting which accounts for the disparity I see on some of these reports regarding after-affects. Discuss with your provider in advance so you know what to expect.

I am not swollen at all but still bronze and was instructed not to touch my face or wash it and avoid all sun for 48 hours which has been tough! So far, my skin is tight and bronzed and I can't really see a difference although I know that is because the new skin has not yet formed and the old has not sloughed off. However, I am satisfied with my experience and think I will like the results. My provider said a couple weeks after the second treatment is when I really will notice the most change.

I think if you are looking for a quick fix than this is not the procedure for you- the results are gradual and you must be diligent with your after care guidelines. Will report back as things develop.

Updated on Nov 11, 2009
I had a profractional 1540 laser and while initially pleased, my skin keeps changing in subtle ways (sandpaper, bumps, acne, etc) that are causing me to question the safety of this procedure. That and some posts I have read about lasers using the same radiofrequencies and UV rays to burn your skin "in a controlled way". If its the same as sun damage, wouldnt we be damaging our skin and potentially causing cancer in the long run? Help, I'm confused and haven't heard a satisfactory response to these concerns