Fraxel Laser NYC

The Fraxel laser is an FDA-approved fractional laser designed to address a wide range of skin concerns, including acne scars, sun damage, brown spots, fine lines, enlarged pores, age spots, surgical scars, and other issues related to skin texture and tone. The Fraxel Dual laser delivers fractionated laser energy to the dermis to improve skin texture and tone without harming the epidermis. Many patients enjoy the cosmetic benefits of Fraxel laser treatment because it delivers long-lasting, natural-looking results with minimal downtime and few side effects. At her private dermatology office on NYC’s Upper East Side, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green offers the Fraxel Dual laser, which operates at two distinct wavelengths to target a wide range of skin concerns and deliver optimal skin-rejuvenation results.

Dr. Green often refers to the Fraxel Dual as the “magic eraser” because it can address a myriad of skin conditions with minimal downtime. Its 1550 nm wavelength addresses skin texture concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and surgical scars, while its 1927 nm wavelength addresses skin tone concerns, including sun damage, age spots, and hyperpigmentation. The controlled micro-injuries in the skin created by Fraxel activate the skin’s natural healing process, resulting in new collagen production and the generation of new skin cells. The precision of the Fraxel laser allows for minimal recovery time and discomfort while enhancing rejuvenation results. After a short series of treatments, many patients have enjoyed the cosmetic benefits of Fraxel for years; however, most opt for an annual maintenance treatment session to maintain the best results. When you consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC for your Fraxel treatment, you can expect clear, radiant, rejuvenated skin with long-lasting results.

What Is Fraxel Laser?

While many companies may refer to their laser devices as a “Fragmented” or “Fraxel-type” laser, only one Fraxel laser exists. The original Fraxel, manufactured by Solta Medical, was the first fractional laser approved by the FDA for non-ablative laser skin resurfacing. The Fraxel uses non-ablative laser technology to deliver microscopic columns of fractionated energy that penetrate deep into the skin’s layers, treating only a fraction of the skin tissue at a time and leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected. This fractional laser technology promotes faster, more efficient healing. The controlled, targeted micro-injuries in the skin created by Fraxel stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, resulting in new collagen production, smoother skin texture, and a more even skin tone. One of the greatest benefits of Fraxel laser treatment is that it delivers both immediate and long-term results: within days of treatment, skin tone and texture will improve, and over the following months, patients will see continued improvement in skin rejuvenation as new collagen forms.

35-44 year old female, Fraxel before and after (3 weeks)

What Are the Different Types of Fraxel Lasers?

Fraxel Repair

The Fraxel Re: pair is an ablative laser that uses fractional CO2 to rejuvenate the skin. Fraxel Repair delivers intense light, breaking up small columns in the skin’s outer layer to stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin. Fraxel Repair can be used to treat sunspots, uneven skin tone and texture, deep wrinkles, and scarring. Because Fraxel Repair is an ablative laser treatment, it is associated with significant downtime, usually lasting about 1 week. This more aggressive laser is suitable for skin with severe damage.

Fraxel Restore

The Fraxel Restore is a non-ablative laser that uses 1550-nm erbium energy to heat the skin and stimulate collagen synthesis. It is a gentler alternative to Fraxel Repair and is effective for treating moderate skin damage, including fine lines, pigmentation, and uneven skin texture. Downtime with Fraxel Restore is minimal, typically lasting 1 to 2 days.

Fraxel Dual

The most popular Fraxel laser is the Fraxel Dual. Fraxel Dual is the newest version of Fraxel lasers and combines the benefits of both Fraxel Repair and Fraxel Restore. Fraxel Dual is a non-ablative laser that uses two wavelengths: 1550 nm and 1927 nm. The 1550 nm Erbium wavelength effectively increases collagen production to treat acne scars, surgical scars, fine lines, enlarged pores, and uneven skin texture. The Thulium 1927 nm wavelength works superficially, precisely targeting chromophores (colored elements within skin cells) to create a controlled, localized thermal reaction that diminishes pigmented spots and discoloration. At her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green offers the Fraxel Dual laser treatment to address a wide range of skin concerns and provide optimal rejuvenation results.

28 year old female, Fraxel & 1 syringe of Juvederm on lips – 4 weeks

How Does the Fraxel Laser Work?

The Fraxel Dual laser is a safe and effective treatment option for skin rejuvenation, delivering excellent results with minimal downtime. As a non-ablative laser, Fraxel does not remove the outer layer of the skin, resulting in a faster recovery time than with ablative laser treatments. The Fraxel Dual laser delivers fractional laser energy in microscopic columns that precisely penetrate the skin’s inner layers while leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected. As the wavelengths of laser energy penetrate the skin, they cause controlled micro-injuries that trigger the body’s natural healing response and boost collagen and elastin production—increased collagen and elastin in the treated area help create smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin. When using the 1927 nm wavelength setting, the Fraxel laser targets and destroys specific chromophores to reduce pigmentation and eliminate sun spots and age spots. Additionally, the Fraxel Dual is equipped with a Zimmer device, which emits cold air simultaneously with the laser to minimize discomfort during treatment. There is little downtime associated with the Fraxel laser, and patients often experience mild redness, akin to a sunburn, for approximately 48 hours post-treatment.

What Does Fraxel Laser Do?

Fraxel laser is FDA-approved to treat the following skin conditions:

• Acne scars, especially atrophic or depressed scars
• Surgical scars, post-op scars, scars from injuries
• Fine lines
• Wrinkles
• Enlarged pores
• Sun spots, age spots, and other pigmented lesions
• Sun damage
• Uneven skin tone and texture
• Perioral lines (fine lines around the mouth)
• Periocular lines (fine lines around the eyes)
• Stretch marks
• Actinic Keratosis

Am I a Good Candidate for Fraxel Laser Treatment?

The best candidates for Fraxel laser resurfacing are individuals in good general health who want to address specific skin concerns such as fine lines and wrinkles, freckles, age spots, stretch marks, enlarged pores, or acne scars. Good candidates for Fraxel treatment generally fall within Fitzpatrick skin types I through III, as patients with darker skin tones are at higher risk of unwanted side effects or undesirable cosmetic results due to the interaction between the laser and skin pigment. Patients with melasma are not ideal candidates for Fraxel treatment, as laser skin resurfacing can entrench pigmentation deeper into the skin and worsen the condition. To ensure safety, efficacy, and optimal results, it is important to receive skin rejuvenation treatments from an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, who will assess your skin type, tone, condition, and concerns to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

How Is Fraxel Dual Laser Treatment Performed at Dr. Green’s Dermatology Office?

The first step in scheduling a Fraxel Dual laser treatment is to consult with Dr. Green at her dermatology office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Dr. Green will collect a thorough medical history, review any prior cosmetic procedures, assess your skin condition, and discuss your skin concerns and personal aesthetic goals. Photographs of the treatment area will be taken to track your progress. Once it is determined that Fraxel laser is the best course of treatment, the procedure may be performed the same day or scheduled for a later date, depending on preference and availability.

One hour before your Fraxel laser treatment, a topical numbing cream will be applied to the skin to minimize discomfort during the procedure. After the topical anesthetic has been on the treatment area for about one hour, it will be removed, and your skin will be sterilized. Protective goggles will be provided for the duration of the treatment session. Dr. Green will then perform the Fraxel treatment, passing the handheld device over the skin’s surface to deliver fractionated energy to the dermis. A Fraxel treatment session takes approximately 15 minutes when performed on the face, though larger body areas may take up to 30 minutes or longer. Immediately after the procedure, your skin will feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn, and cold-water compresses will be applied to the treated area. Afterward, patients can apply a gentle moisturizer and must practice strict sun avoidance.

What Are the Side Effects of Fraxel Laser Fractional Resurfacing?

As a non-ablative laser, Fraxel is associated with far fewer side effects and risks than ablative laser treatments. The most common side effects of Fraxel include mild swelling, redness, and tenderness in the treated area, which typically resolve within 48 hours of treatment. If there is a history of acne breakouts, Dr. Green may prescribe an oral antibiotic to be taken immediately after laser treatment. If you have a history of herpes simplex (cold sores), you may be advised to take Valtrex on the day of the procedure to help prevent an outbreak. It is imperative to research the provider performing your laser skin resurfacing before undergoing a procedure. Laser treatment with an inexperienced or unqualified provider can result in poor cosmetic outcomes and unwanted side effects, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, burning, and scarring. When you have your Fraxel laser treatment with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, the risk of experiencing unwanted side effects is extremely low.

What Is the Downtime for Fraxel Laser?

One of the biggest benefits of the Fraxel laser is minimal downtime and few potential side effects. When Fraxel is performed with the 1550 nm setting, mild redness and swelling are expected for 48 hours. When Fraxel is performed at 1927 nm, treatment is associated with an additional 3 to 7 days of peeling and flaking, during which the skin may feel like sandpaper as damaged skin cells shed. Patients should avoid picking or scratching the skin during this time. Following treatment, patients should avoid strenuous exercise, hot tubs, and saunas for 48 hours. It is essential to keep the skin moisturized with a gentle, plain moisturizer and to avoid direct sun exposure, as the Fraxel treatment makes the skin particularly sensitive. Patients should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and wear sun-protective clothing. When you have your Fraxel laser skin resurfacing treatment with Dr. Green, she will provide all necessary aftercare information to help you achieve and maintain the best rejuvenation results.

What Skincare Should I Use After Fraxel?

Proper post-treatment skincare is essential to prevent skin damage and enhance treatment results. Patients should avoid hydroquinone, retinoids, and exfoliating products, including alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids, for 1 week after treatment. After Fraxel laser treatment, patients should use a mild cleanser and a gentle moisturizer, such as MGSKINLABS Gentle Cleanser and Absolute Recovery Anti-Wrinkle Cream. You can resume your normal skincare regimen once the treated area is fully healed. Additionally, protecting your skin from sun exposure after Fraxel laser treatment is essential to prevent sun damage and unwanted side effects, such as worsening hyperpigmentation or scarring. Dr. Green recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 and reapplying throughout the day as needed. MGSKINLABS Hydrating SPF 50 uses zinc oxide to create a protective barrier against UV rays, along with lactic acid and hyaluronic acid to soften and hydrate the skin. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 90 minutes or after water activities.

How Soon Can I See the Results from Fraxel?

Immediately after a Fraxel laser treatment session, the treated area may show common side effects, such as redness and swelling. Patients using the 1550 nm setting to address acne scars and uneven skin texture may experience mild redness and swelling for up to 48 hours. Those treating sun damage and pigmentation with the 1927 nm setting will also experience shedding of dead pigmented skin cells for 3 to 7 days. Results for sun damage with the 1927 nm setting can be expected within 4 to 6 weeks after a single treatment session. Results for acne scars or wrinkles with the 1550 nm setting may become visible in 4 to 6 months. To achieve optimal outcomes, most patients typically need three to six treatment sessions spaced four to six weeks apart.

How Many Fraxel Treatments Are Needed?

Some patients may achieve excellent rejuvenation with a single treatment session. However, most patients require at least three Fraxel laser treatment sessions, spaced about one month apart, to achieve the best results. Because each Fraxel session treats only 25 to 40 percent of the treatment area at a time, multiple sessions are needed to achieve optimal rejuvenation. There is immediate improvement in the first weeks after laser treatment, and new collagen continues to form for months after each Fraxel session, supporting ongoing rejuvenation. When you have Fraxel laser treatment with Dr. Green, photos will be taken before each session to track progress, and she will assess your skin condition to determine how many sessions may be needed to achieve the best cosmetic results.

How Long Does Fraxel Last?

Many patients of Dr. Green ask: “How long do Fraxel results last?” After a short series of initial treatment sessions, Fraxel delivers long-lasting rejuvenation results. Many patients have enjoyed the cosmetic benefits of Fraxel for years and can extend the longevity of their results by limiting sun exposure and using proper sun protection. Even so, most patients choose to undergo an annual maintenance treatment session to consistently stimulate new collagen production and maintain the best rejuvenation results. While Fraxel provides long-lasting skin rejuvenation, it cannot prevent new signs of aging from developing over time. As collagen continues to break down naturally with age, new signs of aging can appear in previously treated areas. Engaging in regular annual maintenance sessions with Fraxel helps prevent and treat new signs of aging, keeping the skin looking healthy, radiant, and more youthful for longer.

Can I Combine Fraxel® With Other Facial Rejuvenation Procedures?

Yes! Most patients incorporate Fraxel and a variety of other cosmetic procedures into their personalized treatment plans to address multiple skin concerns and achieve pan-facial rejuvenation. The advantage of working with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist such as Dr. Green in NYC is that she has the expertise to craft a treatment plan tailored to your specific skin concerns and aesthetic goals.

Botox is one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic dermatology procedures. Derived from botulinum toxin A, Botox temporarily inhibits muscle contractions that cause dynamic wrinkles, such as forehead lines, crow’s feet, and glabellar lines. Dermal fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane—both composed of hyaluronic acid—restore facial volume and can last 6 to 12 months. Sculptra, a poly-L-lactic acid filler, stimulates collagen production and can produce results lasting up to two years. The VBeam laser, operating at 595 nm, is often paired with Fraxel to eliminate facial redness associated with rosacea, broken blood vessels, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, with zero downtime. Thermage radiofrequency treatment is the gold standard for non-invasive skin tightening and is frequently combined with Fraxel to address both texture and skin laxity, yielding lasting results.

Fraxel Laser FAQs

What Is Fraxel Treatment?

Fraxel treatment is an FDA-approved, non-ablative laser skin-resurfacing procedure that uses fractionated laser energy to address a wide range of skin concerns with minimal downtime. Unlike ablative laser treatments that remove the entire outer layer of skin, Fraxel delivers energy in microscopic columns that precisely penetrate the skin’s inner layers while leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected. This approach triggers the body’s natural healing response, boosting collagen production and the renewal of healthy skin cells, resulting in a smoother, firmer, and more youthful complexion. Fraxel treatment is safe, effective, and suitable for patients seeking to improve fine lines, acne scars, sun damage, discoloration, uneven skin tone, and more.

How Long Does Fraxel Take?

A single Fraxel session on the face takes approximately 15 minutes. The length of treatment depends on the size of the area being treated; larger areas, such as the back, take longer to treat than smaller areas, such as the face.

Does Fraxel Hurt?

Fraxel laser treatment is a safe and effective option with almost no discomfort and minimal downtime. Dr. Green prescribes a topical numbing cream (topical anesthetic) to her patients, which should be applied to the treatment area one hour before the Fraxel treatment to minimize discomfort. During the procedure, most patients report minor stinging or a sensation of heat. Immediately after the laser treatment, a cool compress is applied to the treated area to reduce any residual heat.

Is Fraxel Laser Safe?

Absolutely! Fraxel is FDA-approved to treat fine lines and wrinkles, sun spots and age spots, pigmentation, acne scars, stretch marks, and uneven skin texture and tone. FDA approval ensures that the laser’s safety and efficacy have been thoroughly studied. There is minimal downtime with Fraxel treatment, with patients experiencing only mild redness or swelling for 48 hours afterward. Fraxel treatment is incredibly safe, especially in the hands of an expert, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green, who can tailor treatment to each patient’s specific skin concerns, skin type, and skin tone.

Does Fraxel Work?

Yes—the Fraxel laser is a clinically proven, FDA-approved skin resurfacing treatment with consistently impressive results. By delivering fractionated laser energy to the skin’s layers, Fraxel stimulates new collagen production and accelerates the turnover of damaged skin cells, replacing them with smoother, clearer, more evenly toned skin. Patients treating sun damage and pigmentation at 1927 nm can expect results from a single treatment session within four to six weeks, while those using the 1550 nm setting for acne scars or wrinkles may see full results four to six months after treatment. Most patients require three to six treatment sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart, to achieve optimal outcomes.

What Are the Benefits of Fraxel Dual Treatment?

Fraxel is a fantastic skin-resurfacing laser treatment designed to address issues such as skin texture, sun damage, age spots, brown spots, fine lines and wrinkles, and surgical scars. This revolutionary laser treatment also diminishes the appearance of crow’s feet and brown spots, improves stubborn acne scars, and creates a rejuvenated, healthy-looking complexion that lasts. Unlike ablative laser treatments, Fraxel treatments do not harm the top layer of skin, allowing for stunning rejuvenation results with little downtime. Another bonus is that the Fraxel laser can be used on various areas of the body, including the neck, chest, decolletage, arms, legs, hands, and back.

How Deep Does the Fraxel Laser Go?

The depth of Fraxel treatment depends on the wavelength used, as 1550 nm penetrates deeper than 1927 nm. The Fraxel Dual laser typically penetrates the skin to a depth of 1.5-1.7 mm. An experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green will adjust the laser settings to best suit your specific skin tone, skin type, and skin concerns.

Does Fraxel Help With Wrinkles?

Yes! The Erbium 1550 nm setting on the Fraxel Dual laser is excellent for treating wrinkles and fine lines. Fraxel treatment triggers wound healing and stimulates the production of new collagen, an essential protein that provides the skin with structure and elasticity. By increasing collagen levels in the skin, the Fraxel laser helps smooth wrinkles and create a more even skin texture. However, dynamic wrinkles caused by repetitive facial movements may be better treated with Botox injections, which prevent targeted muscles from contracting and forming wrinkles. Deep wrinkles with associated volume loss may be better treated with dermal fillers to restore volume and smooth the skin. Patients often combine Fraxel, Botox, and dermal filler treatments to achieve pan-facial rejuvenation. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will assess your facial wrinkles and devise a treatment plan to address your signs of aging and create a more youthful-looking appearance.

Does Fraxel Tighten Skin?

Fraxel is an excellent laser treatment for improving skin tone and texture and reducing fine lines and wrinkles around the face, especially those around the eyes and mouth. It also improves the appearance of acne and surgical scars and treats sun damage and sun spots. Fraxel can produce some skin tightening when new collagen forms with the 1550 nm setting. However, a dedicated skin-tightening laser, such as Thermage, can deliver much more significant results. Thermage is considered the gold standard in non-invasive skin tightening and uses radiofrequency technology to deliver heat to the skin’s dermal layers, stimulating new collagen production to tighten the skin and provide a more youthful appearance. The results of Thermage are gradual, typically becoming visible about 6 weeks after treatment and continuing to take effect for up to 6 months, with effects lasting up to 2 years. Many patients combine Thermage and Fraxel treatments into their personalized treatment plans to target a variety of skin concerns and achieve pan-facial rejuvenation with minimal downtime.

Does Fraxel Help With Melasma?

No, patients with melasma should avoid laser skin resurfacing, including Fraxel. Laser treatment can worsen the appearance of hyperpigmentation associated with melasma by driving pigmentation deeper into the skin. Melasma is best treated with topical treatments, chemical peels, or Cosmelan, which is specifically designed to target melanin production without the risk of aggravation associated with laser treatment. If melasma is a skin concern you would like to address, or if you are unsure whether the hyperpigmentation you are experiencing is melasma, consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience treating patients worldwide for a range of skin conditions, including melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation.

Does Fraxel Cause Fat Loss?

No, Fraxel does not cause unintended fat loss in the treatment area. Fraxel delivers fractionated energy to the skin’s dermal layer, stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture and tone. The fractionated energy does not penetrate deep enough to cause any fat loss. Patients can rest assured that Fraxel is a safe, targeted skin resurfacing treatment that works exclusively on the skin layers to improve tone, texture, and overall skin rejuvenation.

Can Fraxel Laser Treat My Acne Scars?

Yes! The Fraxel laser is highly effective at treating many types of atrophic or depressed acne scars. Atrophic scars form when inflammation from an acne lesion causes irreparable damage to the underlying tissue and impairs collagen production, resulting in depressed areas of skin. By stimulating collagen production, the Fraxel laser helps smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Patients often require a series of 3 to 5 treatment sessions, spaced 1 month apart, to effectively improve the appearance of acne scars.

Is Fraxel Laser Safe for Dark Skin?

Fraxel laser treatment can be performed on patients with darker skin tones. Still, it requires careful patient selection and expert adjustment of laser settings to minimize the risk of complications such as post-treatment hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Patients with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI) may be at higher risk of unwanted pigmentation changes after Fraxel treatment due to the interaction between laser energy and melanin. Patients with darker skin tones should consult a board-certified dermatologist experienced in treating diverse skin types before undergoing Fraxel laser treatment. Dr. Green will evaluate each patient’s skin color, skin type, and skin concerns to determine whether Fraxel is the safest and most effective treatment option or whether an alternative approach would yield better results.

What Is the Difference Between Fraxel Laser Treatment and other Skin Resurfacing Lasers?

The Fraxel laser uses non-ablative, fractional laser technology for skin rejuvenation. In the past, the primary type of laser used for skin resurfacing was ablative. Ablative laser treatments essentially create an open wound by removing the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) and heating the underlying layer (dermis), thereby stimulating the production of new collagen fibers as the epidermis regrows. However, ablative lasers, such as CO2 lasers, cause significant thermal injury, resulting in considerable downtime while the skin heals. Non-ablative lasers like the Fraxel laser stimulate new collagen and improve skin tone and texture with minimal recovery time, thanks to revolutionary fractionated laser technology. The Fraxel laser treats highly targeted areas while leaving surrounding tissue untouched, promoting faster healing and less downtime. At her private dermatology office in New York City, Dr. Green offers the Fraxel Dual laser treatment, which uses two distinct wavelengths to effectively address a wide range of skin concerns.

Is Fraxel a CO2 Laser?

No, the CO2 laser and the Fraxel laser are distinct skin resurfacing treatments. A CO2 laser is an ablative laser that removes the outermost layer of the skin to resurface and rejuvenate it. In contrast, the Fraxel laser is a non-ablative laser that stimulates new collagen production in the skin’s dermal layers without removing the outer surface. Both laser treatments can target various skin concerns, including sun damage, acne scars, stretch marks, and fine lines. However, as an ablative laser treatment, the CO2 laser is associated with longer downtime, greater discomfort, and a higher risk of complications, such as hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, or scarring, compared to the non-ablative Fraxel laser.

Is Halo a Fraxel Laser?

No, Halo is not a Fraxel laser, though both are fractional skin-resurfacing lasers. The Halo laser is a hybrid fractional laser manufactured by Sciton that combines ablative and non-ablative technologies, removing the skin’s surface layer while also penetrating the dermis. The Fraxel laser, manufactured by Solta Medical, is a non-ablative fractional laser that treats the inner layers of the skin without harming the outermost layer, resulting in a faster recovery and fewer side effects. Both Halo and Fraxel can be effective options for skin resurfacing. Still, patients often prefer Fraxel for its ability to improve signs of aging without the prolonged recovery times associated with ablative or hybrid lasers.

Is Moxi a Fraxel Laser?

No, Moxi is not a Fraxel laser, though it functions similarly to Fraxel Laser as it is a non-ablative fractional laser that uses fractionated energy. Moxi, manufactured by Sciton, treats only the skin at 1927 nm. By contrast, the Fraxel Dual employs wavelengths of 1550 nm and 1927 nm, allowing it to address skin texture and skin tone effectively in a single device. While Moxi can be a good entry-level option for mild skin concerns, the Fraxel Dual offers a more comprehensive approach to laser skin resurfacing for patients dealing with a broader range of skin concerns, such as acne scars, surgical scars, and deeper signs of aging.

Is Clear and Brilliant a Fraxel Laser?

Clear + Brilliant is a non-ablative fractional laser treatment manufactured by Solta Medical—the same company that makes the Fraxel laser—but it is not the same device. Clear + Brilliant is often described as a gentler “Mini Fraxel,” designed for younger patients or those with mild skin concerns who want preventive skincare and a refreshed complexion with virtually no downtime. By contrast, the Fraxel laser penetrates deeper into the skin and delivers more significant results for more advanced skin concerns such as acne scars, deeper wrinkles, and sun damage. Clear + Brilliant is an excellent maintenance option between Fraxel treatments, but it is generally less powerful than the Fraxel Dual laser for comprehensive skin rejuvenation.

Which Is Better: Fraxel, CO2, Halo, or Moxi Laser?

With so many laser treatment options available, it can be difficult to determine which laser is best for your specific skin concerns without guidance from a board-certified dermatologist. Fraxel, CO2, Halo, and Moxi are all skin-resurfacing lasers that stimulate collagen production and improve uneven skin texture and tone, as well as acne scars, sun spots, and fine lines. Patients often prefer the Fraxel laser to the CO2 or Halo laser because it improves signs of aging without damaging the top layer of skin or requiring prolonged recovery. While Moxi is also non-ablative, it treats only at 1927 nm, whereas Fraxel Dual uses both 1550 nm and 1927 nm, allowing it to address both skin texture and skin tone effectively.

Is Fraxel Laser Ablative?

No, Fraxel is a non-ablative laser treatment that does not remove the entire skin surface. Ablative lasers can deliver dramatic results but are associated with longer downtime and a higher risk of side effects. Non-ablative lasers like Fraxel stimulate new collagen production in the skin’s deeper layers, leaving the outermost layer intact. This allows Fraxel to deliver optimal rejuvenation results with minimal downtime.

How Many Fraxel Sessions Do You Need?

The number of Fraxel sessions needed depends on the skin concern being treated and its severity. Three sessions are typically needed to treat pigmented lesions and sun damage, while three to five sessions may be needed to treat acne scars, uneven skin texture, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. Patients with deeply entrenched pigmentation, severe scars, or significant unevenness may require more sessions. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, she will work with you to determine a treatment timeline to achieve clear, radiant skin.

How Often Can I Have Fraxel Laser Treatment?

Patients must first undergo a series of initial Fraxel treatment sessions to achieve the best cosmetic results. Patients treating sun damage and discoloration may need three treatments spaced one month apart, while those treating uneven skin texture and acne scars may need three to five treatments spaced one month apart. Waiting allows the skin to heal properly and for collagen to be fully remodeled before another treatment session. Afterward, most patients attend annual or biannual maintenance sessions to maintain their results.

How Much Is Fraxel Laser?

Fraxel laser costs vary by geographic area, the body area treated, the number of areas treated in a single session, the number of sessions required to achieve the desired results, and the provider’s expertise. Generally, an appointment with an experienced board-certified dermatologist will be more expensive than at a MedSpa. Still, it is essential to have treatment performed by an expert like Dr. Green to minimize the risk of dangerous and unwanted side effects, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, burning, and scarring. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will assess your medical history and skin concerns and develop a customized treatment plan. At that time, the cost of treatment will be discussed in detail.

Does Insurance Cover Fraxel Laser?

Health insurance typically does not cover Fraxel laser treatment, as the procedure is considered cosmetic. However, it is always recommended to check with your insurance provider whether they will cover any treatment sessions.

Is Fraxel Worth It?

Yes! With minimal downtime, few potential side effects, ease of treatment, and consistently stunning rejuvenation results, patients agree that Fraxel with Dr. Green is absolutely worth it. Dr. Green treats some of the world’s most discerning individuals with Fraxel laser treatment to rejuvenate the skin and erase signs of aging. Fraxel effectively targets a wide range of skin concerns, including sun damage, acne scars, fine lines, and sun spots. Commitment to a short series of treatment sessions, each spaced approximately four weeks apart, yields outstanding rejuvenation results. Fraxel replaces aging, damaged skin with new, healthy skin cells for a more youthful, radiant complexion that lasts. When you consult with Dr. Green at her boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to develop a treatment plan that suits you best.

Where to Get Fraxel Laser Near Me

If you are searching for a trusted provider of Fraxel laser treatment in New York City, look no further than board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green’s boutique private practice is located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side and serves patients from across the city, the country, and around the world. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will evaluate your skin concerns, medical history, and aesthetic goals to develop a fully personalized treatment plan that may include Fraxel laser and other complementary procedures. As one of NYC’s most sought-after dermatologists, Dr. Green is committed to delivering optimal, natural-looking rejuvenation results with minimal downtime.

Contact Dr. Green Today to Begin Your Fraxel Laser Transformation

The Fraxel laser is one of the most powerful and versatile tools in modern cosmetic dermatology, offering patients a safe, non-ablative path to comprehensive skin rejuvenation. From reducing acne and surgical scars to erasing sun damage, age spots, fine lines, and discoloration, the benefits of Fraxel are extensive and long-lasting. With minimal downtime, a low risk of side effects, and the ability to treat a wide range of skin concerns and skin types, Fraxel laser treatment remains a gold standard in laser skin resurfacing. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green offers the Fraxel Dual laser at her private practice on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, providing each patient with a fully customized treatment plan that combines Fraxel with other in-office procedures and skincare products to achieve optimal, natural-looking results.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist in NYC with over 25 years of experience, offering patients the most advanced, non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatments, including Fraxel laser treatment. Dr. Green is consistently recognized by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times as one of New York City’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and unmatched expertise in cosmetic dermatology. She takes a holistic approach to facial rejuvenation, customizing each patient’s treatment plan to best suit their unique skin concerns, skin type, and aesthetic goals. To learn more about Fraxel laser treatment and schedule your personalized consultation, please contact us online or call 212-535-3088.