If you're researching non-invasive cosmetic treatments for smoother, younger-looking skin, you've likely come across two popular options: IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and fractional laser resurfacing. Both are powerful tools for improving skin tone, texture, and clarity—but they work differently and are ideal for different skin issues.
This in-depth guide breaks down the key differences between IPL and fractional lasers, including how they work, what they treat, pros and cons, downtime, costs, and who they're best for. If you’re unsure which treatment is right for you, this article will help you make a confident, informed decision.
IPL is a light-based treatment—not technically a laser—that uses a broad spectrum of light wavelengths to target pigment and blood vessels in the skin. It's most effective for treating:
Sun damage and brown spots
Redness, broken capillaries, rosacea
Uneven skin tone
Freckles and age spots
Overall complexion clarity
Also known as a photofacial, IPL works by delivering flashes of light into the skin, which are absorbed by melanin (brown pigment) or hemoglobin (red pigment). The targeted cells are broken down and naturally removed by the body over the following days and weeks.
Minimal downtime (redness lasts 24–48 hrs)
Great for redness, discoloration, and mild sun damage
Can treat multiple areas quickly
Suitable for light to medium skin tones
Excellent for skin “maintenance” and brightening
Does not treat texture, wrinkles, or sagging
Not safe for deeper skin tones (risk of hyperpigmentation)
Requires multiple sessions (usually 3–5)
Results are more subtle than with lasers
Fractional laser treatments—like CO2, Erbium, or non-ablative lasers—use focused beams of light to treat tiny "columns" of skin while leaving surrounding tissue intact. This fractional approach promotes faster healing while stimulating deep collagen production.
There are two main types:
Ablative lasers (e.g., CO2, Erbium): vaporize outer skin layers for deep resurfacing
Non-ablative lasers (e.g., Fraxel Dual): heat the skin without removing it, for gentler resurfacing
Excellent for acne scars, texture, fine lines, and wrinkles
Improves skin laxity and collagen loss
Treats deeper skin layers for more dramatic results
Fewer sessions needed (1–3 typical)
Long-lasting improvement with proper care
More downtime (3–14 days depending on intensity)
Not ideal for very dark skin tones (with ablative lasers)
Post-treatment redness, peeling, and sensitivity
May require numbing or sedation
| Feature | IPL (Photofacial) | Fractional Laser (CO2, Erbium, etc.) |
|---|---|---|
| Technology Type | Broad-spectrum light | Laser (monochromatic light) |
| Depth of Penetration | Superficial | Deep (epidermis + dermis) |
| Best For | Pigmentation, redness | Wrinkles, scars, texture |
| Skin Concerns Treated | Sun spots, rosacea, tone | Acne scars, wrinkles, laxity, texture |
| Downtime | Minimal (0–2 days) | Moderate to long (3–14 days) |
| Sessions Needed | 3–5 | 1–3 |
| Skin Tone Suitability | Light–medium tones only | Varies by laser; caution on darker skin |
| Pain Level | Low | Medium–High (numbing often used) |
| Results Timeline | Gradual (over weeks) | Fast (visible in 7–14 days) |
| Cost (per session) | $300–$600 | $800–$2,500+ |
