Fraxel® Laser for Skin Rejuvenation
One of the most exciting developments in cosmetic and laser dermatology is the introduction of fractional resurfacing with the Fraxel® laser. Lasers have been used for decades to create younger looking skin. But the downside has been that to achieve truly dramatic results, patients had to experience weeks of healing and downtime, as well as substantial risks. With the introduction of the Fraxel® laser, patients can achieve impressive improvement in skin texture, tone, uneven pigmentation, wrinkles, and acne scarring without prolonged downtime.
What is the Fraxel® laser?
The Fraxel® laser is a 1550nm infrared laser that targets the water content in the epidermal and dermal tissue. Unlike traditional aggressive resurfacing lasers, the Fraxel® laser treats only a small percentage (15-20%) of the skin at a time with precise microthermal zones. This fractional treatment keeps the upper levels of the epidermis intact while the laser energy penetrates into the dermis to stimulate collagen remodeling. By treating only a fraction of the skin surface, this laser allows for much more rapid healing than was previously possible.
What conditions are treated with the Fraxel® laser?
Wrinkles of the face, neck, chest, arms, and hands
Brown, sun induced freckles and age spots
Acne scars
Uneven pigmentation
Sun damaged skin
Dull, coarse skin tone and texture
What areas can be treated?
Fraxel® treatments can be preformed on any part of the skin. These treatments are particularly effective for improving the skin quality of the face, chest, neck, arms and hands.
What is a Fraxel® treatment like and how many treatments are necessary?
Each treatment takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes depending on the area treated. A topical anesthetic is applied for 60 minutes prior to the procedure for increased comfort. After treatment, patients experience minor redness and swelling for 2 to 3 days and can usually return to their normal activities the next day. Make up can usually be applied the day after treatment. Since only a fraction of the skin is treated with each session, patient generally have a series of 3 to 5 treatments to achieve optimal results.
Who are the best candidates for Fraxel® treatments?
The best candidates for Fraxel® treatments are patients who desire a more dramatic improvement in wrinkles, sun damaged skin, brown sunspots, and acne scars and are able to tolerate a brief period of downtime.. With a series of Fraxel® treatments, the skin appears younger, smoother, healthier, and more vibrant.
