What is Fraxel? Fraxel Laser Treatment FAQ

What is Fraxel Laser Treatment?

How is the Fraxel different from other laser treatments?
Until the invention of the Fraxel laser, only two types of laser treatments were available – ablative and non-ablative. Ablative treatments are very effective but require long recovery times and have a high risk of side effects. Non-ablative laser treatments involve little to no recovery time but require multiple treatments to achieve satisfactory results. The beauty of the Fraxel is that it offers the same effectiveness as the ablative lasers, but with the speedy healing time associated with the gentler, non-ablative lasers.

How does the Fraxel laser work?
The Fraxel laser creates microscopic columns called microthermal treatment zones (MTZs) that penetrate deep into the dermal layer of the skin to target and eliminate old, pigmented skin cells. Surrounding each of these microscopic “columns” is healthy, unaffected skin. The surrounding healthy skin triggers the body’s natural healing process, accelerating the production of collagen and the formation of new, tighter tissue to replace the skin’s imperfections.

What are the advantages of the Fraxel laser treatment?
Fraxel treatment provides similar results as those obtained with ablative lasers but requires little to no downtime. Because the revolutionary technology of the Fraxel laser bypasses the outer layer of skin, makeup can be applied immediately after a treatment. Some people can return to work and regular activities the same day as their treatment. Others may require more time to heal, depending on the skin condition being treated and the degree of improvement desired. During your initial consultation with BodyLase, your treatment provider will evaluate your skin and explain how the Fraxel treatment will fit into your schedule.

How many treatments will I need?
Fraxel laser treatments are effective only when performed in a series of sessions because each session treats only 20-25% of the skin. By treating only a percentage of the skin with each treatment, the surrounding untreated skin drives the healing process and downtime is minimal. This “fractional” treatment of the skin creates seamless, radiant skin without the unwanted side effects of other laser resurfacing technology.

Generally, most people require four sessions spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart. Results are immediate and progressive. Over the course of two to three months new collagen begins to form, creating healthy, beautiful and more youthful skin.

Is the Fraxel treatment painful?
Prior to your treatment, your face will be numbed with a regional anesthetic block and topical anesthetic. In addition, cold air will be applied to your face during the treatment. People are usually quite comfortable during the treatment and often describe feeling a “prickling” sensation.

What should I expect after the treatment?
Immediately after the treatment, your skin will appear slightly pink or red and you will have a sunburned sensation. Your skin may also have slightly puffy or swollen appearance. Over the next week, the pinkness will naturally turn to a bronze color as the pigmented cells are expelled from the deeper layers of your skin. Your skin may be “flakey” as the dead cells exfoliate naturally. A moisturizer will help reduce flakiness. You will be required to wear a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher and avoid direct sun exposure during the healing process.

Fraxel re:store treatment delivers dramatic results, fast healing and maximum safety. Fraxel laser treatments are available at the Raleigh and Cary, NC BodyLase Skin Spas. Ask us how you can benefit from Fraxel re:store treatment. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation call us at 919-954-2288 or contact us.