Fractionated Ablative Laser

Erbium laser resurfacing for acne scar texture.

The Alma Erbium 2940nm fractionated ablative laser smooths boxcar scars and surface irregularities by breaking down old scarred collagen so the skin can rebuild it.

Fractionated ablative laser

The Alma Erbium 2940nm fractionated ablative resurfacing laser is an essential component in the treatment of acne scarring. Specifically, it is used to treat surface textural irregularities from acne, including boxcar scars. It is often used as part of a sequence to break down old, scarred collagen in favor of newly repaired collagen. The result is smoother skin with better texture and tone, and improvement in the appearance of acne scars.

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Fractionated ablative erbium laser resurfacing.

Fractionated laser resurfacing across metro Detroit

Dr. Singer treats acne scars at his Bingham Farms office, convenient to patients throughout Oakland County and metro Detroit. The right plan depends on your scar type and goals, so every treatment starts with an in-person assessment.
Frequently asked questions

A wavelength of energy delivered in microscopic columns vaporizes the tissue in what are known as microscopic thermal zones. These zones are directed through abnormal scarred collagen, and the body then naturally repairs them with newly regenerated collagen and elastic fibers.

Fractionated ablative lasers ablate tiny columns of tissue while the surrounding zones stay intact, so only about 20 percent of the tissue is treated. The remaining 80 percent is left unaffected and is essential for rapid wound healing, which is why multiple sessions are needed. Fully ablative lasers produce 100 percent ablation of the entire epidermis and part of the dermis. Results can be excellent in a single session, but there is prolonged downtime and a higher risk of complications such as scarring, infection, and hyperpigmentation.

Expect about 5 days of downtime, though many patients return to work within 2 to 3 days. You will feel like you have a moderate sunburn for a day or two. There is initial swelling with some grid-like marks, followed by mild peeling, and within a week you will see new pink skin that is softer and younger looking. Collagen production continues for months afterward, and three to six sessions are needed for an optimal outcome. Once the skin has healed, protect it from the sun with a wide brimmed hat and sunscreen.

Yes. It is often used as part of our trio of CROSS, subcision, and filler in the same session, and it can also be combined with Vivace RF microneedling.

Yes. Patients are pretreated with bleaching cream before and after treatment, along with strict photoprotection. Despite these measures there is still some risk of temporary hyperpigmentation, but far less than with deeper CO2 ablation.

Yes, but they are rare and far less common than with fully ablative laser. Risks include bacterial and viral infections, persistent redness, contact dermatitis, discoloration, and worsening of scarring.

Schedule an acne consultation

Craig Singer MD Dermatology is located at 31000 Telegraph Rd., Suite 260, Bingham Farms, MI 48025. Call (248) 792-3785 to schedule a consultation.

Patient testimonials

4.9

Based on Google reviews

HOUR Detroit Top Doc

Recognized dermatologist

Dr. Craig Singer, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Acne Center of Michigan

About Craig Singer MD Dermatology

Located in Bingham Farms, Acne Center Of Michigan was founded by Dr. Craig Singer, a board-certified dermatologist.

We specialize in the treatment of acne and acne scarring, offering numerous therapeutic options tailored to each patient’s needs.

Dr. Singer experienced significant acne when he was in college and has personal experience with his teenage children’s acne as well. He has helped thousands of patients look their best.

Acne Center of Michigan offers the most advanced acne treatments, drawing from both traditional and alternative approaches. Dermatologists across the region refer their most complex acne-scar cases to Dr. Singer, and patients travel from across Michigan, neighboring states, and Canada for his care.

HOUR Detroit Magazine Top Docs award

Board-Certified

Dermatologist

Thousands of patients

Helped look their best

American Board of Dermatology
American Board of Physician Specialties
University of Pennsylvania
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
The Skin Cancer Foundation
Society for Pediatric Dermatology
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery