What Is Photofractional Treatment?
Do you have a busy schedule, wondering if there’s a treatment that addresses both textural issues and uneven tone in one go? The Photofractional treatment is your answer! By combining two powerful technologies, Resurfx and IPL, Photofractional targets multiple skin concerns like uneven texture, fine lines, sun spots, pigmentation issues, and even rosacea. It’s an ideal solution for patients seeking to improve both skin tone and texture while reducing signs of aging. The surprising truth? Photofractional healing process can make your skin look a little worse before it gets better, but with proper aftercare, the glow-up is worth it.
What to Expect During the Photofractional Healing Process
Photofractional Treatment uses a combination of Resurfx, a non-ablative resurfacing laser, and IPL, which targets pigmentation and redness in the skin. Together, these modalities offer an effective solution for a broad range of skin concerns. While the treatment offers minimal downtime, the healing process is important to ensure optimal results. In this blog, I’ll guide you through the healing process, what to expect, and how you can care for your skin post-treatment to achieve the best results.
Right after your session, your skin will likely show:
- Redness and mild swelling (especially from Resurfx)
- Warmth or sensitivity
- Darkened pigmentation spots from the IPL, often giving a “coffee-ground” appearance
These are normal responses and typically last anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
Immediate After-Effects of Photofractional:
Resurfx targets deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production, which can cause mild to moderate redness and swelling that may last for the rest of the day and possibly into the next day.
As swelling goes down, redness typically persists for 1-3 days. During this time, it’s important to keep the area well-moisturized and avoid direct sun exposure to protect the healing skin. This clinical study highlights the effectiveness and safety of the non-ablative fractional 1565 nm ResurFX laser for the treatment of stretch marks (Striae Distensae). In a small group of patients treated over three sessions, more than 90% showed over 50% improvement in the volume and color of their stretch marks, as confirmed through blinded reviews and advanced 3D image analysis. Patients also reported high satisfaction and tolerable discomfort, with minimal downtime (around 4 days) and no serious adverse effects. The treatment’s dual-impact approach effectively improved both the texture and pigmentation of stretch marks, offering a promising, non-invasive solution for this common cosmetic concern.
IPL primarily addresses pigmentation issues and can also help with redness caused by conditions like rosacea. After the treatment, it’s normal for hyperpigmented spots to darken before they flake off, which may give the skin a “coffee-ground” appearance for a few days. Unlike Resurfx, IPL typically has a subtle recovery period, with little to no swelling or peeling.
This clinical study evaluates the safety and effectiveness of a narrowband IPL device in treating pigmented lesions on the face and other visible areas. The results demonstrate a strong correlation between physician-assessed improvement and patient satisfaction, with additional unexpected benefits like improved skin texture and firmness. You can read the full study to get more information.
Day-by-Day Photofractional Healing Timeline
Day 1 – Post-Treatment Reaction
- Expect mild to moderate redness and swelling
- Skin may feel like a mild sunburn
- Areas will be tender and warm
Day 2-3 – Redness and Darkening
- Swelling decreases, but redness can persist
- IPL-treated areas darken as pigmentation surfaces
- Avoid touching or picking at the skin
- Use gentle, hydrating skincare products
Day 4-7 – Flaking and Tightness
- Pigmented spots begin to flake off naturally
- Skin may feel dry or tight
- Keep moisturizing and applying SPF religiously
Essential Post Photofractional Treatment Skincare
Why Gentle Skincare Matters
After a Photofractional session, your skin is in repair mode. Using the right products will:
- Accelerate healing
- Prevent irritation or complications
- Enhance long-term results
Recommended Products by Alpha Medical Aesthetics For Best Photofractional Healing
At Alpha Medical Aesthetics, we recommend SkinBetter Science products to support your post-treatment recovery:
Mystro
- Rich in plant adaptogens
- Boosts the skin’s natural stress response
- Strengthens resilience and calms irritation
Trio Luxe
- Deep hydration
- Supports skin elasticity and moisture retention
- Ideal for reducing tightness and dryness post-treatment
When Will You See Results Post Photofractional?
You may notice tighter, firmer skin immediately after your session. However, true results build over time:
- Visible improvement begins within the first week
- Collagen and elastin production increases over the next 3–6 months
- Optimal results typically come after a series of three treatments, spaced four weeks apart
Top Post Photofractional Treatment Tips for Best Results
- Prioritize Sun Protection
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- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, even indoors
- Reapply if outdoors or near windows
- Stay Hydrated
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- Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine in excess
- Avoid Heat and Sweat
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- No hot tubs, saunas, or intense workouts for 24–48 hours
- Heat can aggravate redness and prolong healing
- No Smoking
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- Smoking hinders blood flow and collagen production
- For faster healing, stay smoke-free during recovery
Final Thoughts: Your Skin’s Glow-Up Starts Here
Photofractional treatment offers impressive results with minimal downtime, as long as you care for your skin properly during the healing process. With gentle skincare, smart aftercare tips, and a commitment to sun protection, you’ll see a visible transformation in skin tone, texture, and overall radiance.
Want to experience the glow for yourself? Call us at 702-683-2156 or book your appointment online with Alpha Medical Aesthetics today!
Loved learning about Photofractional? Then you’ll want to check out TriGlo, My Go-To Treatment Combo For Glowing, Refreshed Skin.
