Most of us know that laser treatments can help with wrinkles, acne scars, and sunspots, but did you know they might also reduce your risk of skin cancer? Recent studies have shown that nonablative fractional lasers (NAFLs), a popular dermatologic treatment, could help prevent skin cancer by promoting healthier skin at a cellular level.

patient undergoing nonablative fractional laser

What Are Nonablative Fractional Lasers?

NAFLs are non-invasive lasers that heat targeted areas of the skin without removing any tissue. This triggers your body’s natural healing process, encouraging:

  • New collagen growth
  • Skin cell turnover
  • Repair of sun-damaged skin

Nonablative Fractional Laser Technology

They’re commonly used to treat:

While NAFLs are not a replacement for sunscreen or regular skin checks, they may be a powerful addition to your skin health routine, especially if you:

  • Have a history of sun damage
  • Have had precancerous lesions like actinic keratoses
  • Are at higher risk for skin cancer
  • Want healthier, more youthful skin

How Do They Help Prevent Skin Cancer?

skin cancer check

A recent study published in a peer-reviewed dermatology journal found that patients who received NAFL treatments had a significantly lower incidence of skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC).

Researchers believe the laser’s ability to stimulate skin renewal may:

  • Remove or repair precancerous cells
  • Improve immune response in the skin
  • Reverse some of the DNA damage caused by UV exposure