Fractora delivers radiofrequency energy through an array of fine pins, so it resurfaces the skin surface like a fractional laser while heating the deeper layers like a tightening treatment. The combination improves texture, acne scars, fine lines and laxity in the same session, and because the energy is radiofrequency rather than light, it is safe for a much wider range of skin tones than CO2.
What it treats
- Acne scars and uneven texture
- Fine lines, crepey skin around the eyes and mouth
- Mild to moderate laxity of the lower face, jawline and neck
- Enlarged pores and overall skin quality
Fractora, CO2 or SkinPen?
Think of it as a ladder. SkinPen microneedling is the gentlest, with a day or two of redness. Fractora adds radiofrequency for more tightening and resurfacing, with three to five days of recovery. CO2 is the most aggressive, with about a week of healing and the biggest single-treatment change. Dr. Darvish matches the rung to your skin, your tone and your calendar.
What to expect
Topical numbing for about 45 minutes, then a treatment of 20 to 40 minutes. Expect redness and a sandpaper feel for a few days, with tiny marks that fade within a week. Most patients do a series of two or three, six weeks apart, and see results build over three to six months.
Frequently asked questions
Is Fractora safe for darker skin?
Yes. Because it uses radiofrequency rather than laser light, it carries a much lower risk of pigment changes and is one of our go-to resurfacing options for deeper skin tones.
How is it different from regular microneedling?
Standard microneedling creates channels mechanically. Fractora adds radiofrequency heat through the pins, which tightens and remodels deeper tissue and gives a stronger result per session.
How many sessions?
Usually two or three, about six weeks apart, then an annual maintenance session if you want to hold the result.
Does it hurt?
With numbing it feels like warm pinpricks. Deeper settings on the jawline can be more intense; we adjust in real time.
When will I see results?
Texture improves within a few weeks. Tightening and scar improvement continue for several months as collagen rebuilds.