ProFractional™ Laser

Living Well in Idaho Shouldn't Mean Living With Sun Damage

If you spend your weekends on the river, the trails, or the ski hill, your skin has probably taken on more than its share of Idaho's high-altitude sun exposure. Years of outdoor living can leave behind uneven texture, enlarged pores, fine lines, and stubborn scarring that no skincare routine seems to touch.

Many patients tell us they've tried creams, facials, and at-home devices without seeing real change in their skin's texture. If you're ready for a treatment backed by clinical expertise rather than trial and error, ProFractional laser resurfacing may be the right next step in your care plan.

What ProFractional Laser Resurfacing Is

ProFractional is a fractional (not fully ablative) erbium laser treatment designed to improve skin texture, tone, and firmness. It treats only a fraction of the skin in microscopic columns, leaving the surrounding skin intact to support faster healing and encourage the body's natural renewal process. For patients with deeper damage who want a single, more intensive session, our fully ablative Contour TRL laser may be recommended instead.

• Targets fine lines, sun damage, acne scarring, and uneven texture
• Uses fractional technology, treating a fraction of the skin at a time for a well-tolerated experience
• Can be customized in depth and intensity depending on your skin concerns and goals
• Suitable for the face, neck, chest, and hands
• Performed in-office by our experienced dermatology team

What to Expect During Treatment

• Consultation first: A member of our aesthetic team will evaluate your skin and discuss realistic goals before recommending a treatment plan
• Topical numbing: A numbing cream is typically applied beforehand to help keep the treatment well-tolerated
• Session length: Most treatments take between 30 and 60 minutes depending on the areas addressed
• Sensation: Patients often describe a warming or prickling feeling during treatment
• Downtime: Redness and mild swelling are common for a few days, with some patients experiencing light peeling or flaking as skin renews
• Sun protection: Strict sun avoidance and daily SPF are essential during recovery, especially given Idaho's intense UV exposure
• Series recommended: Many patients benefit from a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart for more noticeable improvement

What Results May Look Like

Skin renewal takes time, and results build gradually as your body's natural collagen production responds to treatment. Many patients find their skin texture appears smoother and more even within a few weeks of each session, with continued refinement over the following months.

• Initial redness typically fades within several days
• Texture and tone improvements often become more visible over 4 to 6 weeks
• Full benefit is generally seen after a recommended series of treatments
• Results vary based on skin type, sun exposure history, and the concern being treated

We never promise a specific outcome, but we're committed to helping you understand what ProFractional can realistically achieve for your skin.

Who ProFractional Is Right For

• Adults noticing sun damage, fine lines, or uneven texture from years of outdoor Idaho living
• Patients with acne scarring looking for a non-surgical approach to smoother skin
• Anyone who wants to look refreshed, not "done," and values a natural-looking care plan
• Patients who have tried topical treatments without seeing the improvement they hoped for
• Adults of most skin types, following an in-person evaluation to confirm candidacy
• Those willing to commit to sun protection and aftercare instructions during healing

ProFractional is not typically recommended for active acne breakouts, certain skin conditions, or during pregnancy. A consultation with our team will confirm whether this treatment fits your skin's needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ProFractional laser resurfacing painful?

Most patients describe the sensation as warming or prickling rather than painful, especially with topical numbing applied beforehand. Our team prioritizes your comfort throughout the session and will adjust settings as needed.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your skin concern and goals. Many patients benefit from a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart, and your provider will recommend a specific plan after evaluating your skin in person.

How much downtime should I expect?

Most patients experience redness and mild swelling for a few days, with some light peeling as the skin renews. Many people return to normal activities within a few days, though strict sun avoidance is important during healing.

Can ProFractional help with acne scarring?

Yes, ProFractional is commonly used to improve the appearance of acne scarring by encouraging smoother, more even skin texture over time. Your provider can discuss whether this treatment or another option better fits your specific scarring pattern.

Is ProFractional safe for all skin tones?

Candidacy depends on individual skin type and history, which is why we recommend an in-person consultation before treatment. Our team will evaluate your skin carefully to determine the safest and most effective approach for you.

Why Treasure Valley Dermatology

Treasure Valley Dermatology is home to Dr. Dustin Portela, a board-certified dermatologist, dermatologic surgeon, and Idaho native, Dr. Kelsey Ferrell, a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, and Dr. Ben Buttars, a board-certified dermatologist. Together, they bring rare depth of expertise to every corner of dermatology, medical, surgical, and cosmetic alike.

• Board-certified dermatologists and experts in skin cancer surgery, all under one roof
• 700+ five-star reviews from patients who describe our team as genuinely caring and "a breath of fresh air"
• Full-family dermatology care, from pediatric skin concerns to adult cosmetic treatments
• Two convenient locations in Boise and Meridian, serving Eagle, Nampa, Caldwell, Star, Kuna, and surrounding communities
• Access to clinical trials and advanced in-office technology, including SkinPen microneedling, Radiesse filler, and CoolSculpting

Patients consistently tell us they feel heard, not rushed, even in a busy and growing practice. That kind of attention matters when you're trusting someone with your skin.

Ready to Talk About Smoother, More Even Skin?

If years of Idaho sun and outdoor living have left your skin looking less like itself, ProFractional laser resurfacing may be a fitting next step. Schedule a consultation with our team at either our Boise or Meridian location to discuss your goals and find a care plan that fits your skin.

Book online anytime at dermatologyboise.com/schedule-an-appointment or call our office to get started. We look forward to helping you feel confident in your skin.