The Two Primary Categories of Skin Lasers: Ablative vs Non-Ablative

8 July 2026
2 min read
The FABshaping Team

Written by

The FABshaping Team

Aesthetics editorial team

If you've researched laser skin treatments, you've probably met a confusing list of names — CO2, Fraxel, Nd:YAG, Er:YAG, picosecond. Almost every one belongs to one of just two primary categories: ablative and non-ablative. Understanding this single distinction is the key to making sense of every laser on the market.

The two categories at a glance

Ablative lasersNon-ablative lasers
What they doRemove (vaporise) the outer layers of skinHeat deeper skin without removing the surface
Main targetWater in the skinWater or pigment below the surface
StrengthStronger, more dramatic resurfacingGentler, gradual improvement
DowntimeMore (days to weeks)Less (little to none, or mild)
Typical useDeeper lines, scarring, sun damage, textureEarly ageing, tone, mild texture, maintenance

Ablative lasers

Ablative lasers remove the surface layers of the skin in a controlled way. Their energy is absorbed by water in the skin, vaporising thin layers while heating the tissue underneath to stimulate new collagen. As the skin heals, smoother, fresher skin replaces what was treated.

Because they work by removing tissue, ablative lasers deliver the strongest results — but they also involve the most downtime and require careful aftercare. They're best suited to deeper concerns such as significant sun damage, scarring, deeper lines and textural change.

See examples of ablative lasers →

Non-ablative lasers

Non-ablative lasers leave the surface of the skin intact. Instead of removing tissue, they pass through the surface and heat the layers beneath, prompting the skin to remodel and build collagen over time. The result is more gradual and usually needs a course of sessions — but downtime is much lower, which is why non-ablative treatments are popular for early ageing, tone and maintenance.

See examples of non-ablative lasers →

Where "fractional" fits in

You'll often see the word fractional attached to either category. A fractional laser treats microscopic columns of skin and leaves the skin between them untouched, which speeds healing. Both families have fractional versions:

  • Fractional ablative (such as fractional CO2) — strong resurfacing with more manageable downtime than fully ablative treatment.
  • Fractional non-ablative — lighter resurfacing over a course of sessions.

Read more about fractional laser resurfacing →

Which category is right for you?

Neither category is "better" — they solve different problems. Stronger results with more downtime (ablative) versus gentler, gradual results with little downtime (non-ablative) is the fundamental trade-off. The right choice depends on your concern, your skin type and how much recovery time suits your life, which is exactly what a consultation is for.

Find a clinic near you

Skin Laser - Fotona Dynamis

AnnerleyShow on map

641 Ipswich Rd, Annerley Queensland 4103, Australia

Our Fotona Laser System offers a comprehensive, non‑invasive approach to skin rejuvenation using advanced dual‑wavelength technology. This medical‑grade laser treats both the surface and deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen, refine texture, and restore a smoother, firmer, more radiant complexion. Suitable for all skin types and for a wide range of concerns—including fine lines, pigmentation, redness, scarring, and overall skin quality—the Fotona system delivers precise, controlled energy with built‑in safety features for comfortable treatments and minimal downtime. Whether you’re seeking gentle rejuvenation or more intensive resurfacing, this versatile laser provides natural‑looking, long‑lasting results tailored to your skin’s needs.

Duration1 hr
TreatmentFotona SP Dynamis
Price
From $1,000(excl. GST)
Book now
Skin Laser - Fotona Starwalker

AnnerleyShow on map

641 Ipswich Rd, Annerley Queensland 4103, Australia

Fotona StarWalker is an advanced multi-wavelength laser system designed to treat a wide range of skin concerns safely and effectively. Using cutting-edge Q-switched, pico second and fractional laser technology, StarWalker targets pigmentation, tattoos, vascular lesions, and uneven skin tone with precision. Its ultra-short energy pulses break down pigment particles while stimulating collagen for smoother, healthier skin. The device’s Adaptive Structured Pulse (ASP) technology ensures controlled energy delivery, reducing discomfort and downtime. Whether you want to remove unwanted tattoos, correct pigmentation, or rejuvenate your skin, Fotona StarWalker offers a versatile, non-invasive solution for natural, long-lasting results

Duration1 hr
TreatmentFotona StarWalker
Price
Price on request
Book now
Gold Diamond Tone Up PhotoBooster — Melasma & Pigmentation

HamptonShow on map

425a Hampton Street, Hampton VIC 3188, Australia

Gold Diamond Tone Up PhotoBooster is an advanced laser treatment designed to address melasma, uneven pigmentation and overall skin tone. Fotona StarWalker technology uses precise photoacoustic laser energy to fragment excess melanin while minimising unnecessary heat to the surrounding skin. The treatment may incorporate multiple laser modes to address pigment, inflammation, vascular components and skin quality, resulting in a clearer, brighter and more evenly toned complexion.

Duration1 hr
TreatmentFotona StarWalker
Price
From $550(excl. GST)
Book now
Fotona SP Dynamis Skin Rejuvenation

CastlecragShow on map

77A Edinburgh Road, Castlecrag NSW 2068, Australia

Our Fotona Laser System offers a comprehensive, non‑invasive approach to skin rejuvenation using advanced dual‑wavelength technology. This medical‑grade laser treats both the surface and deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen, refine texture, and restore a smoother, firmer, more radiant complexion. Suitable for all skin types and for a wide range of concerns—including fine lines, pigmentation, redness, scarring, and overall skin quality.

Duration30 min – 1 hr
TreatmentFotona SP Dynamis
Price
From $350(excl. GST)
Book now
Fotona 4D
Fotona 4D — image 2

HamptonShow on map

425a Hampton Street, Hampton VIC 3188, Australia

Our Fotona 4D Laser System offers a comprehensive, non‑invasive approach to skin rejuvenation .This medical‑grade laser treats both the surface and deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen, refine texture, and restore a smoother, firmer, more radiant complexion. Suitable for all skin types and for a wide range of concerns—including fine lines, pigmentation, redness, scarring, and overall skin quality—the Fotona system delivers precise, controlled energy with built‑in safety features for comfortable treatments and minimal downtime. Whether you’re seeking gentle rejuvenation or more intensive resurfacing, this versatile laser provides natural‑looking, long‑lasting results tailored to your skin’s needs.

Duration45 min – 1 hr 40 min
TreatmentFotona SP Dynamis
Price
From $250(excl. GST)
Book now
FracREVIVE rejuvenation - Skin rejuvenation

HamptonShow on map

425a Hampton Street, Hampton VIC 3188, Australia

Fotona StarWalker is an advanced multi-wavelength laser system designed to treat a wide range of skin concerns safely and effectively. Using cutting-edge Q-switched, pico second and fractional laser technology, StarWalker targets pigmentation, tattoos, vascular lesions, and uneven skin tone with precision. Its ultra-short energy pulses break down pigment particles while stimulating collagen for smoother, healthier skin. FracRevive® is an efficient two-step skin rejuvenation treatment with minimal downtime, performed with both full-beam and fractional Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. The treatment improves the patient’s skin tone and texture as well as reduces pore size, pigmentation, and static wrinkles.

Duration45 min – 1 hr 30 min
TreatmentFotona StarWalker
Price
From $750(excl. GST)
Book now
Aerolase Neo Elite Laser

Bondi JunctionShow on map

332-342 Oxford St, Bondi Junction New South Wales 2022, Australia

The Aerlose Neo Elite Laser improves skin quality, texture, redness, acne, pigmentation, melasma, fine lines along with 30 other indications. This treatment is suitable for all skin types and is comfortable with no downtime.

Duration15 min – 1 hr 15 min
TreatmentAerolase Neo (Elite)
Price
From $49(excl. GST)
Book now
Active Acne Laser Treatment

HamptonShow on map

425a Hampton Street, Hampton VIC 3188, Australia

Active Acne Laser Treatment uses Fotona’s non-ablative Nd:YAG laser to deliver precisely controlled heat beneath the skin’s surface. The laser targets overactive sebaceous glands to reduce acne inflammation, support the healing of active breakouts and help reduce the development of new acne lesions. It also stimulates collagen remodelling to support the skin’s natural repair process, with minimal disruption to the skin surface.

Duration45 min
TreatmentFotona SP Dynamis
Price
From $350(excl. GST)
Book now
Fotona Starwalker Skin rejuvenation

CastlecragShow on map

77A Edinburgh Road, Castlecrag NSW 2068, Australia

Fotona StarWalker is an advanced multi-wavelength laser system designed to treat a wide range of skin concerns safely and effectively. Using cutting-edge Q-switched, pico second and fractional laser technology, StarWalker targets pigmentation, tattoos, vascular lesions, and uneven skin tone with precision. Its ultra-short energy pulses break down pigment particles while stimulating collagen for smoother, healthier skin. The device’s Adaptive Structured Pulse (ASP) technology ensures controlled energy delivery, reducing discomfort and downtime. Whether you want to remove unwanted tattoos, correct pigmentation, or rejuvenate your skin, Fotona StarWalker offers a versatile, non-invasive solution for natural, long-lasting results

Duration30 min
TreatmentFotona StarWalker
Price
From $399(excl. GST)
Book now

CastlecragShow on map

77A Edinburgh Road, Castlecrag NSW 2068, Australia

Transform your nail health with advanced Fotona laser therapy for onychomycosis. This non-invasive treatment precisely targets and eliminates nail fungus in both toenails and fingernails, restoring them to their clear and healthy state. Using controlled laser energy, our expert team effectively disrupts the fungal cells while protecting surrounding tissues. At Yours Beautifully Laser Skin Clinic, we prioritise your comfort and safety throughout the process. From consultation to post-treatment care, our experienced therapists ensure a seamless experience tailored to your needs. Say goodbye to stubborn nail fungus and hello to beautiful, healthy nails. For optimal results we recommend 6 sessions spaced 4 weeks apart followed by 1 session every 2 months until the nail grows out completely

Duration20 min
TreatmentFotona SP Dynamis
Price
From $180(excl. GST)
Book now
M22 AOPT

HaymarketShow on map

shop 2/389 Sussex Street, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia

Stellar M22 is a versatile, non-invasive light and laser treatment that helps improve a wide range of skin concerns with minimal downtime. It uses advanced Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and laser technologies to safely target issues like sun damage, redness, pigmentation, fine lines, acne and texture irregularities — plus it can even be used for hair removal and tattoo fading.

Duration30 min
TreatmentStellarM22
Price
From $300(excl. GST)
Book now

Stellar M22 is a versatile, non-invasive light and laser treatment that helps improve a wide range of skin concerns with minimal downtime. It uses advanced Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and laser technologies to safely target issues like sun damage, redness, pigmentation, fine lines, acne and texture irregularities — plus it can even be used for hair removal and tattoo fading.

Duration30 min
TreatmentStellarM22
Price
From $300(excl. GST)
Book now

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Frequently asked questions

What are the two primary categories of skin lasers?

Ablative lasers, which remove the skin's outer layers, and non-ablative lasers, which heat beneath the surface without removing it.

Which is stronger, ablative or non-ablative?

Ablative lasers generally give stronger resurfacing results but with more downtime; non-ablative lasers are gentler and gradual, with little downtime.

What is a fractional laser?

A laser that treats microscopic columns of skin and leaves the skin between them intact to speed healing. Both ablative and non-ablative lasers have fractional versions.

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