Laser Skin Cancer Prevention
Non-ablative fractional laser treatment is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments to improve multiple cosmetic concerns – and now with data that it imparts a significant health benefit and may reduce future risk of skin cancer. In Manhattan, Dr. Brian Hibler, a board-certified and Harvard fellowship-trained dermatologist, offers state-of-the-art non-ablative fractional laser treatments to help treat precancerous skin lesions in patients with chronic sun damage. This innovative approach can reduce the risk of certain types of skin cancer while also rejuvenating the skin’s texture, tone, and appearance.
Dr. Hibler is an author of a recent study that found that this minimally invasive cosmetic procedure can offer protection against common skin cancers, basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. Even better, treatment can brighten and tighten the skin, smooth fine lines, fade brown spots and age spots, and rejuvenate the complexion.
Young and mature patients alike are good candidates for treatment. Dr. Hibler recommends annual non-ablative fractional laser treatment for continued photorejuvenation, building of collagen to slow down signs of aging, and a proactive approach to treat precancerous cells before they progress. It is one of the most popular, natural cosmetic treatments that is also great for the health of your skin.
Non-ablative fractional laser therapy is a modern dermatologic treatment that uses targeted light energy to heat columns of skin tissue without removing or vaporizing the outermost layers. This process stimulates the body’s natural healing response and promotes the production of new collagen and healthy skin cells. Over time, this regenerative effect can help clear precancerous cells, restore sun-damaged skin, and reduce the formation of non-melanoma skin cancers.
Unlike ablative lasers, which physically remove layers of skin, non-ablative fractional lasers work below the surface without vaporizing tissue. The treatment delivers microscopic zones of thermal energy that treat a fraction of the skin at a time, allowing surrounding healthy tissue to aid in rapid recovery. The result is a safer, lower-downtime approach to long-term skin repair and cancer prevention.
Repeated sun exposure over time can lead to cumulative DNA damage in skin cells. This damage may cause actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions) and increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Non-ablative fractional lasers are able to target and remodel sun-damaged skin at the microscopic level.
There are many explanations for how non-ablative fractional laser treatments might reduce skin cancer, including a localized inflammatory response, thermal injury to precancerous cells, increased cellular turnover, and inducing a healing response that gives healthy epidermal cells a selective advantage.
By stimulating new collagen production and healthy skin cell turnover, non-ablative laser treatments can gradually clear sun-damaged cells and help restore the skin’s normal function. Several studies have shown that these treatments can reduce the number of new precancerous lesions and may decrease the incidence of certain skin cancers in high-risk individuals.
Non-ablative fractional laser therapy is typically recommended for patients with:
- A history of actinic keratoses or multiple skin cancers
- Visible signs of sun damage such as rough texture, uneven pigmentation, or mottled skin
- Fair skin types (Fitzpatrick types I–III), who are more prone to UV-related damage
- A desire for a preventive and cosmetic treatment with minimal downtime
The best candidates are healthy adults who are committed to long-term sun protection and follow-up care. Dr. Hibler will carefully assess your skin and medical history to determine if this approach is appropriate for you.
Your consultation with Dr. Hibler will begin with a detailed evaluation of your skin, including a review of any past skin cancers, precancerous lesions, and overall sun exposure. He will examine areas of chronic damage—commonly the face, chest, scalp, arms, and hands—and discuss your skin care regimen and lifestyle.
Dr. Hibler will explain how non-ablative fractional lasers work and outline the expected benefits, limitations, and possible side effects. Together, you will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your skin type, history, and goals. Together with laser skin treatments, regular skin examinations are necessary to monitor sun-damaged skin for early identification of any suspicious skin lesions.
Non-ablative fractional laser sessions are performed in-office and do not require general anesthesia. A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand and force chilled air is used to ensure comfort during the procedure.
During treatment, Dr. Hibler uses a handheld laser device to deliver controlled pulses of energy into the targeted areas. The laser creates thousands of tiny thermal columns within the skin, leaving surrounding tissue intact. This triggers the body’s healing process and gradually renews damaged skin. The entire session usually takes 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. The settings of the laser are individually tailored to your skin type, degree of sun damage, and individual goals.
Patients typically require 1-2 treatments; however, those with more advanced sun damage might require a series of 3 treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart to achieve optimal results. The studies suggest that patients who have had more non-ablative laser treatments saw a greater protective effect against their future risk of skin cancer. Maintenance treatments may be recommended once or twice per year, particularly for patients with ongoing sun exposure or a strong history of precancerous lesions.
One of the primary advantages of non-ablative fractional lasers is their minimal downtime. After treatment, the skin may appear red and swollen which can last anywhere between 3 to 7 days, similar to a sunburn. You may develop rough, sandpaper-like texture to the skin which exfoliates off over the course of the week. Most patients can resume normal activities about 48-72 hours after treatment.
It is essential to follow post-treatment instructions, which include:
- Applying a gentle moisturizer and sunscreen daily
- Avoiding direct sun exposure for at least two weeks
- Using mild skin care products to avoid irritation
- Not picking or peeling the skin as it heals
Dr. Hibler and his team will provide detailed aftercare guidance and monitor your skin’s response to ensure safe and effective results.
Clinical research supports the potential of non-ablative laser therapy to reduce the number of actinic keratoses and delay the development of new non-melanoma skin cancers. While it is not a substitute for regular skin exams or sun protection, it serves as a valuable component of a comprehensive skin health strategy.
A proactive approach with expert care
Dr. Brian Hibler combines advanced laser technology with personalized, evidence-based dermatologic care. Whether you’re seeking to rejuvenate your skin or take proactive steps to prevent future skin cancers, Dr. Hibler offers a thoughtful, results-oriented approach tailored to your needs. To learn more about non-ablative fractional laser therapy for skin cancer prevention or to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Hibler today.
References
- Benson TA, Hibler BP, Kotliar D, Avram M. Nonablative Fractional Laser Treatment Is Associated With a Decreased Risk of Subsequent Facial Keratinocyte Carcinoma Development. Dermatol Surg. 2023 Feb 1;49(2):149-154. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000003672. Epub 2022 Dec 6. PMID: 36728065.
At a Glance
Dr. Brian Hibler
- Board-certified dermatologist
- Fellowship-trained dermatologist
- Ivy League educated at Cornell and Harvard Medical School
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