Dermatology lasers come in so many types that the names alone confuse. The key is what each one targets. Different goals like pigment, redness, or scars mean a different laser and a different recovery window.
Targeting pigment: toning and pico
Melasma, spots, and dull pigment fall to the toning and pico families. Toning layers gentle energy over several sessions to even out tone, while pico shatters pigment with short, powerful pulses.
Both keep downtime short, so you return to daily life quickly. Pigment conditions rarely resolve in one go, though, and need repeated sessions.
Genesis for redness and texture
When the face flushes easily or pores and texture bother you, Genesis steps in. It gently heats the skin to stimulate vessels and collagen, so it's low-irritation with fast recovery.
- Eases redness and subtly refines texture
- Almost no downtime, so little burden
Fraxel for scars and pores
Deep issues like acne scars and wide pores call for Fraxel. It creates dense micro-channels to drive renewal, and the stronger the stimulus, the deeper the effect.
In return comes downtime of redness and flaking for a few days. Time it well before any big event. For a closer look at scar types, see acne scar types.
Choosing by purpose and downtime
Laser choice comes down to two things: what you want to improve, and how much recovery you can take. Lighter concerns like pigment suit a low-downtime laser; deeper ones like scars suit a laser you accept recovery for. Equipment varies by clinic, so a comparison consult helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a laser work in one session?
Most need several. Pigment or scars alike improve gradually over repeated sessions at set intervals rather than finishing in one.
Which laser has the shortest downtime?
The toning and Genesis families recover fastest. Fraxel runs deeper but brings a few days of redness and flaking.
Can I get lasers in summer?
You can, but pigment lasers make skin sensitive to UV. Diligent sun protection afterward keeps the season from mattering much.
This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical professional before any procedure; prices, results, and side effects vary by individual skin condition and clinic.