For fractional laser, sessions are usually 1 to 4, with 4–6 weeks between them. The number depends on what you want to correct. For acne scars, 3–4 sessions are typically needed, and for deep scars sometimes more. For texture, pores, and dullness, 1–2 sessions are usually sufficient. For resting wrinkles (e.g., around the eyes or mouth), we estimate 2–3. The result builds gradually, is finalized 3–6 months after the last session, and with proper care, lasts for years. A booster session once a year helps maintain it.
The treatment: fractional laser at Facemed Clinic — procedure, recovery, evaluation in Athens, Gerakas or Tripoli.
How many fractional laser sessions do you need depending on the indication?
Fractional laser does not "erase" the problem with a single application. In each session, a part of the skin is regenerated, and new collagen is added to the previous. This is why the number of sessions depends on how deep the desired change is.
- Acne scars: 3–4 sessions. Deep, "pitted" scars require more work than superficial ones. We often do an additional session after seeing how the skin responded.
- Texture, pores, dullness: 1–2 sessions. Here, the change mainly concerns the surface, so the skin responds more quickly.
- Resting wrinkles: 2–3 sessions. This refers to lines visible even when the face is not moving. Expression wrinkles (e.g., on the forehead when raising eyebrows) are a different category and usually require a different approach.
These are typical ranges, not a promise. Your specific plan is determined by the doctor after evaluation.
What determines the number of sessions?
Two people with "acne scars" may require very different plans. The following factors are most important:
- The depth of the problem. A superficial unevenness is corrected more easily than a deep scar or an established wrinkle.
- Phototype. For darker skin tones, we work with more conservative settings to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. This usually means more, gentler sessions.
- The intensity of each session. More intense settings mean fewer sessions but longer recovery. Milder settings mean more sessions with shorter downtime. We choose together, depending on your schedule.
- The area. The face, neck, and hands heal at different rates.
- Interim care. Sun exposure and irritation delay healing and "erode" part of the result.
How far apart are the sessions?
Usually 4–6 weeks. This is the time the skin needs to heal completely and start producing new collagen. If the next session is done earlier, we don't "save" time. We irritate skin that is still recovering.
After each session, expect to be red for 5–7 days, with slight peeling. What to do during these days, step-by-step, you will find in the post-fractional laser instructions.
When do the results become visible?
- After 1–2 weeks: once the redness subsides, the skin appears smoother and brighter.
- After 1–3 months: new collagen begins to "fill in" scars and lines, and improvement becomes more apparent.
- After 3–6 months from the last session: you see the final result of the plan.
This is why we recommend judging the result by comparing before-and-after photos, not just the mirror on a single day.
How long do fractional laser results last?
What is corrected in an acne scar with new collagen usually lasts for years. This does not mean that the skin stops aging. Time, sun, and lifestyle continue to play a role. For wrinkles and texture, the result usually lasts 1–2 years and then gradually diminishes.
To make it last longer:
- Sunscreen every day, all year round.
- A booster session once a year, if recommended by the doctor.
- A routine with hydration and antioxidants, without intense irritations.
If you want to see the treatment as a whole, with its pros and cons, read about the advantages and disadvantages of fractional laser.
Why are sessions held from October to March?
After each session, the skin is very sensitive to the sun for weeks. Exposure during this period can leave dark spots (hyperpigmentation) and ruin the result. Autumn and winter have less sun, less heat, and less sweat. This allows for calmer healing.
Practically: if you start in October or November, a plan of 3–4 sessions can comfortably be completed before spring. The result will have “matured” by summer.
What determines the cost?
The total cost is not a fixed amount for everyone. It depends on:
- the number of sessions you will need,
- the area (face, neck, décolletage, hands, or a combination),
- the intensity of the treatment,
- any combination with another treatment, if it serves the desired result.
That's why we discuss the plan and cost together during the assessment, before you begin. If you are hesitant between fractional and another solution, see the comparisons Dermapen or Fractional and Mesotherapy or Fractional.
What we say yes to · What we say no to
We say yes to:
- scars, texture, resting wrinkles
- the season October–March
- telling you that you will be red for 5–7 days
We say no to:
- darker skin types
- isotretinoin in the last 6 months
- summer, no matter how much you're in a hurry
Is one fractional laser session enough?
For mild texture issues or dullness, sometimes yes. For acne scars and resting wrinkles, the result is built up over more sessions.
Can I do the sessions closer together, to finish faster?
No. The skin needs 4–6 weeks to heal and produce collagen. A session sooner increases irritation without improving the result.
Will I need fractional laser again in the future?
Usually not for scars that have already improved. For texture and wrinkles, a repeat session once a year helps maintain the result.
Can I start in March?
You can have an assessment and one session, but a full plan of 3–4 sessions would fall during sunny periods. We usually recommend starting in the autumn.
Will I be able to go to work after the session?
Most people return in a few days. However, expect your face to be red for 3–4 days, so if you have an important engagement, schedule your session accordingly.
How do I know how many sessions I need?
From the assessment. The doctor examines your skin, skin type, and history and gives you a specific plan before you begin.
If it's not right for you, we will tell you.
Book an assessment for fractional laser in Ampelokipoi, Gerakas, or Tripoli.
