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How Fraxel Laser Treatment Works

Fraxel® is proven laser technology that can help reverse the visible effects of aging, naturally helping you look as young as you feel. Fraxel is also known as the Fraxel Dual laser it can be used to rejuvenate the skin of the face, neck, chest, hands, arms, and leg. Fraxel is a non-ablative fractionated laser that stimulates collagen growth in the skin resulting in a healthy glow, smoother texture and improved appearance. The laser energy produces a wound healing response without injuring the skin surface, allowing for a faster recovery time, typically 1-3 days. A series of non-ablative laser treatments can improve fine lines, mottled pigmentation, acne scars, surgical scars, stretch marks and enlarged pores.

How does the Fraxel Dual Laser work?

The Fraxel Dual laser has two different settings that target different aspects of the skin. The setting 1927 wavelength is a state-of-the-art Thulium laser that allows us to remove pigmentation, age spots, and sun damage from the top layer of the skin quickly, evenly and painlessly. The setting 1550 wavelength helps improvement on the skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars. The Erbium technology focuses the energy in the deeper areas of the skin, stimulating new collagen production. The new collagen that is produced ultimately improves the fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture, and scars. Most patients will receive 3-4 treatments, each spaced four to six weeks apart.

Before the procedure the patient is recommended to avoid sun exposure, and self-tanning. Dr.Green generally treats all patients undergoing Fraxel with one week of Valtrex to prevent cold sores. Once the patient arrives at the office a topical anesthetic is applied to the treated area for 1 hour which will minimize any discomfort. After an hour, the skin is cleaned and prepped for the procedure.

During the procedure the patients usually feel a warm, prickly sensation which is normal. Fraxel is a simple procedure which typically takes 10-20 minutes to perform depending on the area treated. Once the procedure is done the patient will experience some redness, swelling, and flaking with a sunburn appearance to the skin for 3-5 days. Results from Fraxel vary depending on each patient’s individual skin. Most patients can achieve effective and visible results within one week after the procedure. It is important for patients to take certain precautions after treatment to protect the skin and help it heal properly. Patient should avoid direct sun exposure and should apply sunscreen of at least 50 SPF as the new skin is highly sensitive.