Fraxel Laser Recovery

Fraxel laser treatment is FDA-approved for treating a wide range of cosmetic concerns, including signs of aging, acne scars, sun damage, fine lines, enlarged pores, hyperpigmentation, age spots, surgical scars, uneven skin texture, and issues with skin tone. Using fractionated laser technology, Fraxel is a non-ablative skin resurfacing treatment option, meaning it stimulates collagen production for comprehensive skin rejuvenation without damaging the outer layer of the skin. Using targeted microscopic beams of laser energy, the Fraxel laser penetrates the inner layer of skin. It triggers the body’s natural healing process, which corrects uneven skin tone and texture, resulting in smoother, clearer, and more youthful-looking skin. To learn more about how the Fraxel laser can address your skin concerns, schedule a consultation with expert board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green.

One major advantage of the Fraxel Dual laser is that it does not require any downtime following the procedure. The Fraxel Dual laser utilizes targeted wavelengths of light to address a specific treatment area without damaging the surrounding skin tissue. Patients may experience minor side effects, such as dry skin, redness, and flaking, but these should resolve within 5-7 days after treatment. To speed up the healing process, Dr. Green recommends using gentle skincare products, such as scent-free cleansers and light moisturizers, and practicing strict sun avoidance by wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. For comprehensive aftercare instructions and guidance on caring for your skin after Fraxel treatment, schedule an appointment with Dr. Green.

Experienced board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green has been expertly treating patients at her Upper East Side, New York City, dermatology office for over 25 years. Dr. Green is an expert in many anti-aging cosmetic treatments, including chemical peels, Microneedling, microdermabrasion, and injectable treatments, such as Botox and dermal fillers. With treatments for many skin conditions available at her office and her proprietary line of skin care products, Dr. Green increases accessibility to a youthful-looking appearance for all her patients. Well-known for high patient satisfaction, Dr. Green has been frequently voted one of the best dermatologists in New York City by such publications as Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors.

What is Fraxel laser treatment?

Fraxel laser therapy is a non-ablative skin resurfacing cosmetic procedure approved by the FDA to treat a range of skin concerns, including acne scars, surgical scars, uneven skin texture, stretch marks, fine lines, brown spots, and sun damage. Originally manufactured by Solta Medical, the Fraxel laser is a fractional laser, meaning it uses precise beams of laser energy to target only a fraction of the skin at a time, while leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected. Fraxel is a non-ablative laser resurfacing option, meaning that the treatment penetrates the dermis and boosts new collagen growth without vaporizing the outer layer of the skin. As a result, Fraxel laser therapy can provide improved skin tone and texture for healthy skin with minimal downtime.

How does Fraxel Dual laser treatment work?

The Fraxel laser is a safe, effective, non-invasive, and non-ablative laser resurfacing treatment option for patients seeking to improve skin tone and texture. The laser emits controlled, targeted beams of fractionated energy at the treatment area that penetrate the deeper layers of the skin while leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected. Most patients find that the procedure causes minimal discomfort; however, Dr. Green also applies a topical anesthetic to minimize the risk of discomfort during the procedure. The microscopic columns treat a fraction of the skin at a time, creating controlled micro-damage to the tissue. This triggers the body’s natural healing process, and as the skin heals, it boosts collagen production for smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin.

When treating various skin concerns, Dr. Green utilizes the Fraxel Dual laser, which features two distinct settings and essentially combines the functions of two lasers into one. With a wavelength of 1927 nm, the Thulium laser is best suited for treating hyperpigmentation, including skin discoloration, age spots, and sun damage. The 1927nm laser emissions target the chromophores in the skin to reduce pigmentation on the skin’s surface. The 1550 nm wavelength Erbium laser is best suited for improving skin texture and addressing skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and surgical scars. The Erbium laser penetrates the deeper areas of the skin to stimulate collagen production, yielding results that continue to improve over time.

Can the Fraxel laser be used for acne scars?

The Fraxel Dual laser is a highly effective treatment option for various forms of scarring, including acne scars, such as ice pick and boxcar scars, as well as surgical and injury scars. Acne scarring is a very common skin condition, with over 80% of people experiencing acne breakouts between the ages of 11 and 30, and 1 in 5 developing some form of acne scar as a result of their breakouts. Several risk factors contribute to the development of acne scars after a breakout, including deep infection in the nodule or cyst, which can hinder the proper production of collagen during the healing process, resulting in either atrophic or hypertrophic acne scars. The 1550 nm setting is most effective for addressing scarring by penetrating the deeper dermal layer of the skin and boosting new collagen production for skin tightening and repair of the damaged skin in the treated area.

What are the side effects of Fraxel laser treatment?

The Fraxel Dual laser is a non-ablative laser treatment, meaning that it is associated with significantly fewer side effects compared to an ablative laser. Where ablative laser treatments destroy the outer layer of the skin, Fraxel leaves the skin’s surface intact and targets the tissue in the deeper layer of the skin. In the first week after receiving Fraxel laser treatment, patients may experience some common, mild side effects, including swelling, redness, dry skin, tenderness in the treatment area, and skin flaking. These side effects will resolve within one week of receiving the treatment, as the treatment results continue to improve over time. Patients with a history of active acne breakouts and cold sores should inform Dr. Green before treatment, as Fraxel laser treatment can worsen these conditions.

What is the dermatology-recommended skincare for Fraxel laser aftercare?

Following Fraxel laser treatment, patients should choose gentle, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic products. Patients should begin their skincare routine every morning and evening with a gentle cleanser to clear the skin of dirt, sunscreen, sweat, and other debris that can clog pores. After cleansing, patients can apply a toner to prepare the face for absorbing products. Due to the flaking and dry skin side effects of Fraxel treatment, moisturizing with a fragrance-free lotion is an essential part of post-laser treatment skin care. It is best to use a moisturizer that is specifically created for the face and labeled as being for “sensitive skin.” While petroleum ointments like Aquaphor or Vaseline are very hydrating, they are often too heavy for the skin and can contribute to clogged pores. The final step of every skincare routine should be applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Following laser treatment, the skin is more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of sunburn and sun damage in patients. Dr. Green recommends reapplying sunscreen every 90 minutes spent outside and limiting direct sun exposure with sun-protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and long sleeves.

What is the downtime for Fraxel?

Patients often wonder, “How much Fraxel laser downtime is there?” Fraxel laser treatment causes controlled micro-injuries to stimulate skin cell turnover, for clear, evenly textured, and bright new skin. One significant advantage of Fraxel laser treatment is that it requires no recovery time, allowing patients to return to their regular daily activities immediately. Following your Fraxel treatment session, Dr. Green will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help maintain clear, clean, and hydrated skin in the days and weeks following the procedure. Immediately after the treatment, Dr. Green will apply a cold compress to the treated area, which can help soothe the slight sunburn sensation caused by the laser. When patients return home, they can repeat the process of applying a cold compress or ice pack as necessary. Following the treatment, it is essential to practice strict sun avoidance, as sun exposure can damage sensitive skin and worsen hyperpigmentation, scarring, or burning. Dr. Green recommends that patients apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every morning before going outside as part of their regular skincare regimen. When the Fraxel laser treats hyperpigmentation, patients typically experience 5-7 days of skin flaking and peeling. During this time, patients should keep the skin moisturized with a gentle moisturizer.

What should you not do after Fraxel?

Following Fraxel laser treatment, the skin may be dry, flaky, and more sensitive. Therefore, it is essential to avoid skincare products that could irritate it during the recovery process. Exfoliating scrubs or agents, such as AHAs (glycolic acid, citric acid, and lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid and tropic acid), vitamin C, retinol-based products like Retin-A, and skin-lightening creams like hydroquinone should all be avoided until the treated area is fully healed. Direct exposure to harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun or tanning beds can be particularly dangerous while the skin is healing. Dr. Green recommends that patients avoid direct sun exposure for at least three months post-treatment to minimize the risk of unwanted side effects, including hyperpigmentation, scarring, and sunburn. Keeping the skin clean and clear is also essential, so Dr. Green also recommends avoiding smoking, excessive sweating, and swimming until the area has fully healed.

Should I use Aquaphor after Fraxel?

Aquaphor and other petroleum-based ointments, such as Vaseline, are highly effective at keeping the skin moist and hydrated. However, these ointments are very heavy and can actually hinder the healing process following Fraxel laser treatment. To keep the skin appropriately hydrated, Dr. Green recommends a gentle moisturizer, such as the Absolute Recovery Anti-Wrinkle Cream from MGSKINLABs.

How long is Fraxel recovery?

Unlike ablative lasers, the Fraxel laser does not require any downtime following the procedure. Patients may experience some minor redness and swelling, which will subside within a couple of days. In the weeks after the procedure, Dr. Green recommends that patients avoid harsh skincare products, such as exfoliants, retinoids, hydroquinone, AHAs, and BHAs, as these can irritate the newly treated skin. Patients may experience some peeling skin but should not pick at it, as this can interfere with the healing process. Instead, patients should clean their skin with a gentle cleanser and moisturize with a light moisturizer twice a day.

How many days does it take to recover from Fraxel?

Fraxel Dual laser does not require any downtime following the procedure. However, patients may experience side effects, such as redness, dry skin, flaking, and swelling, for 5 to 7 days after treatment. For the first three days following treatment, patients may experience redness, heat, and swelling similar to a sunburn. Starting the third day after treatment, the skin at the treatment site will begin to peel, and patients will likely experience itching and flaking. Patients should refrain from exfoliating their skin, as this can interrupt the healing process. On days five through seven, the peeling and flaking will subside, and patients will likely notice an improvement in skin tone and texture, though the full effects of the procedure will continue to improve over the next six weeks.

How can I speed up my Fraxel recovery?

The best way to speed up the recovery time following Fraxel laser treatment is to use a gentle moisturizer. When dry skin and flaking occur due to the treatment, it is important to keep the skin hydrated by applying moisturizer in the morning and evening after thoroughly washing the face with a gentle cleanser and applying toner. Products containing ingredients such as ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid can help retain moisture in the treated area, reduce redness, and strengthen the skin barrier. Dr. Green recommends that patients look for products labeled for “sensitive skin” from brands like CeraVe, Cetaphil, Aveeno, and Neutrogena, or Dr. Green’s Absolute Recovery Anti-Wrinkle Cream from her proprietary line of skincare products, MGSKINLABs.

When can you expect to see the full results of Fraxel?

Fraxel laser treatment utilizes fractional laser energy to create micro-injuries, triggering the body’s natural healing process and promoting increased collagen production. Because the treatment leverages the body’s natural processes, the full effects of the treatment become apparent over time. Typically, Dr. Green recommends that patients schedule multiple treatment sessions spaced one month apart. While some results will become visible within several weeks of the first treatment session, the full effect of the treatment will be visible within approximately six months of starting treatment.

How long does Fraxel laser treatment last?

Fraxel fractional laser treatment is a long-lasting option for addressing various skin concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, sun spots, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, enlarged pores, and other skin imperfections. Most patients will see the benefits of Fraxel treatment for a year before requiring a touch-up appointment with Dr. Green. Typically, Dr. Green recommends that patients schedule annual touch-up appointments to help maintain the treatment results, either with the Fraxel laser or the Clear + Brilliant laser.

How do you sleep after the Fraxel laser?

Swelling is a potential side effect of Fraxel laser treatment. To help prevent and minimize swelling, patients should keep the treated area elevated as much as possible. While sleeping, Dr. Green recommends that patients prop up their head with two pillows as possible to reduce the risk of swelling.

What is the downside of Fraxel laser?

The Fraxel laser is a safe and effective treatment option for many patients seeking to address acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture. However, the Fraxel laser is not safe for all skin types. Patients with darker skin are at a higher risk of developing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following Fraxel treatment, a type of scarring characterized by skin discoloration. For patients with darker skin tones, Dr. Green recommends the Clear + Brilliant Laser, which is safe for patients of all skin types. Additionally, patients with melasma should not consider the Fraxel laser for treatment, as Fraxel laser resurfacing can exacerbate the symptoms of melasma.

How painful is Fraxel Repair?

There are three types of Fraxel laser treatments currently available. The most popular is the Fraxel Dual laser, which combines the benefits of both of its predecessors, Fraxel Repair and Fraxel Restore. The Fraxel Repair is an ablative laser that uses fractional CO2 to rejuvenate the skin. As Fraxel Repair is an ablative laser treatment, significant downtime is associated with the procedure, with recovery times of up to a week necessary. The procedure itself is also associated with more discomfort than non-ablative lasers, such as Fraxel Dual. Fraxel Repair is typically most suitable for skin with severe damage.

How do I get started with Fraxel laser treatment today?

The Fraxel laser is an excellent treatment option that works by emitting precise laser energy, causing controlled damage to the skin to stimulate collagen production over time. With two different wavelengths available, the Fraxel laser can address a wide range of skin concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, and uneven skin tone. Unlike ablative laser resurfacing treatment options, the Fraxel laser has a low risk of serious side effects and does not require any downtime. To find out if the Fraxel laser is the right treatment option for you, schedule an appointment with expert dermatologist Dr. Michele Green.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients with the best non-invasive treatment options. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach, embracing a less-is-more philosophy, and creates customized skincare routines and treatment plans that cater to the unique concerns and aesthetic goals of her patients. She is consistently identified as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Please call us at 212-535-3088 or email our New York City-based office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michele Green to see if Fraxel laser treatment is the best option for you.