7 Laser Treatments Explained: Which One Is Right for Your Skin?

Walk into any medspa and you'll encounter a bewildering array of laser device names. The reality is that different laser wavelengths target different skin concerns with varying levels of aggressiveness. Understanding the basics helps you have a more informed conversation with your provider.

1. CO2 Fractional Laser (Most Aggressive, Best Results)

CO2 lasers work at 10,600nm — a wavelength that vaporizes water in skin cells, removing damaged tissue. Fractional delivery (creating columns of injury rather than treating the entire surface) balances effectiveness with reduced downtime. Ablative CO2 remains the gold standard for severe sun damage, deep wrinkles, and acne scars. Downtime: 5–10 days. Cost: $1,500–$4,000. Not suitable for darker skin tones.

2. Fraxel (Non-Ablative and Ablative Fractional)

Fraxel is a brand name that encompasses both non-ablative (1550nm, 1927nm) and ablative (Re:pair CO2) modalities. The 1927nm Fraxel is specifically designed for sun damage and pigmentation with 5–7 days of peeling. The 1550nm targets deeper collagen remodeling. Fraxel is considered safer for darker skin types than ablative CO2. Cost: $900–$2,500 per session.

3. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light — Technically Not a Laser)

IPL uses broad-spectrum light (500–1200nm) filtered for specific targets — usually melanin (pigmentation) and hemoglobin (redness/vessels). Despite not being a true laser, IPL is extremely effective for sun spots, diffuse redness, rosacea, and overall 'photo rejuvenation.' Safe for skin types I–IV. Requires 3–5 sessions. Cost: $300–$600 per session.

4. Clear+Brilliant (Entry-Level Fraxel)

Clear+Brilliant is often described as 'Fraxel's little sister' — a less aggressive, lower-cost fractional laser designed for skin maintenance and early prevention. Minimal downtime (1–3 days of mild redness/flaking). Popular as a monthly or quarterly maintenance treatment. Cost: $300–$500 per session. Suitable for most skin types.

5. Nd:YAG Laser (Safe for All Skin Types)

The Nd:YAG (1064nm) is the go-to laser for darker skin tones. It targets deeper tissue structures including hair follicles, vessels, and collagen without the high melanin absorption that causes hyperpigmentation risk with other lasers. Used for laser hair removal, leg veins, nail fungus, and skin tightening in all skin types. Cost varies by application.

6. Diode Laser (Laser Hair Removal)

The 810nm diode laser is the most widely used wavelength for laser hair removal. It works best on light-to-medium skin types with dark hair. Most modern diode devices include cooling systems for patient comfort. 6–8 sessions achieve optimal results. Cost: $100–$400 per session per area.

7. PicoSure / PicoWay (Picosecond Lasers)

Picosecond lasers deliver pulses 100x shorter than nanosecond lasers, shattering pigment into dust-sized particles for more effective clearance with less thermal damage. Excellent for: tattoo removal, resistant pigmentation, melasma in appropriate skin types, and overall skin rejuvenation via the 'Focus Lens Array.' Cost: $400–$900 per session.

Laser Selection by Concern