October 2, 2026
Scars, acne marks and skin texture concerns are among the most common requests in aesthetic clinics. For a clinic that wants to meet this demand, a fractional laser device is one of the key investments. In this article we explain how the technology works, how it differs from a CO2 laser, and which Candela devices offer it.
A fractional laser treats only a portion of the skin rather than its entire surface. The laser beam is split into numerous microscopic points, and each point creates a microthermal zone in the skin. The tissue between these zones remains untouched.
The intact tissue speeds up healing, and the skin starts producing new collagen. The skin is therefore renewed point by point rather than as a whole layer. This is why the fractional approach is considered less traumatic than full-surface laser resurfacing.
Fractional lasers fall into two groups: ablative and non-ablative. This difference is decisive when choosing a device, because it determines the recovery time, the intensity of the procedure and which patients the clinic can serve.
A CO2 laser is an ablative laser operating at a wavelength of 10,600 nm. Ablative means that the beam vaporises tissue and physically removes the upper layer of the skin. A fractional CO2 laser does this point by point, but the epidermis is still damaged at each point.
This approach delivers strong results on deep wrinkles and severe scars. In return, the recovery period is longer: redness and peeling follow the procedure, and the skin needs special care. The risk of pigmentation is also higher in darker skin types.
A non-ablative fractional laser works differently. Wavelengths of 1550 nm and 1940 nm do not vaporise the epidermis; they deliver heat to the deeper layers of the skin. The skin surface stays intact and the patient returns to daily life sooner. The result builds up gradually over several sessions.
The Candela fractional devices presented in this article are based on non-ablative technology.
The main indications for a non-ablative fractional laser are:
In every case, suitability is determined by the physician. Skin type, medical history and the patient's expectations are assessed at the consultation, and parameters are selected accordingly.
Candela offers non-ablative fractional laser under the Frax name. The technology is available in two devices. One is designed for fractional procedures only, the other is a multi-application platform.
Candela Nordlys Mini is a compact device designed for skin renewal and repair. It works with two applicators:
Two wavelengths make it possible to address both deep and superficial concerns in the same session. The scan area ranges from 4 to 12 mm. The device is equipped with the SoftCool air cooling system and a smart roller system.
The device weighs 24 kg and measures 43 × 42 × 107 cm, so it fits comfortably into small treatment rooms. It is a suitable choice for clinics that already have an IPL or hair removal device and want to add fractional resurfacing to their service list.
Candela Nordlys is a multi-application platform that combines laser and IPL technologies in one device. It works with three technologies:
One device covers hair removal, pigmented lesions, vascular lesions, acne, scars and skin rejuvenation. The modular applicator system allows the platform to be expanded as the clinic's needs grow. A 10-inch display and remote technical support via Wi-Fi simplify daily work.
The choice depends on the clinic's goals. If only fractional procedures are needed and two wavelengths matter, Nordlys Mini is enough. For a clinic that wants a broad service menu on one platform, Nordlys is the better fit.
Both technologies rely on the same principle: energy is delivered to the skin point by point, and the tissue between the points stays healthy. The difference lies in the type of energy.
A fractional laser works with light energy. The beam is absorbed by water in the tissue and converted into heat. Fractional RF uses radiofrequency electrical current: heat is generated by the tissue's resistance to the current.
In practice, this difference shows in three areas:
The two technologies do not compete; they complement each other. A clinic that has both can offer the patient a more precise solution.
Candela Matrix Pro is based on Dimensional RF technology and acts on different skin layers with three applicators:
The RF frequency is 1 MHz and 3 MHz. Depth Intelligence allows precise control of the depth at which the energy acts. The device is used for deep and moderate wrinkles, skin laxity, acne scars, enlarged pores and uneven skin tone.
Arash Company has been operating since 1994 and is the official distributor of Candela. This means you obtain the device directly through the official channel, original and fully documented.
A laser device is a long-term investment. Its return depends not only on technical specifications but also on after-sales support.
To discuss which device suits your clinic, contact us.
