Does fractional laser treatment treat burn scars?

A fractional laser creates microscopic treatment zones while leaving surrounding skin intact. During healing, the skin may remodel and the scar can become smoother, softer, or less noticeable. The effect depends on whether the burn scar is flat, depressed, thick, tight, or changing in colour. Laser resurfacing may improve texture and stiffness, but it may not erase a scar or correct every concern. Raised or contracting scars may need a broader plan that addresses movement and scar activity before resurfacing is considered.

A dermatology or scar specialist should examine the scar, ask about previous wound healing, and review medicines and skin conditions before treatment. The plan may involve more than one session, with settings adjusted to the scar and your skin tone. After treatment, expect temporary redness, warmth, swelling, peeling, or sensitivity; follow the aftercare instructions and protect the area from sunlight. Do not pick healing skin. Tell the clinician about a history of unusual scarring, cold sores near the treatment site, or recent tanning.

Contact the treating clinic if pain, swelling, blistering, crusting, or redness is becoming worse rather than settling, or if the area develops pus or spreading warmth. Seek prompt assessment for fever, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty. Before elective treatment, obtain a review if the scar is still open, rapidly thickening, increasingly tight, or limiting movement.

Ask what part of the scar the laser is intended to improve, whether another treatment should come first, and what recovery will look like for your skin tone. Discuss expected changes, possible pigment alteration, infection or delayed healing, sun protection, session spacing, and alternatives.