What is Fraxel?
Fraxel is a fractionated laser treatment which was designed to improve texture, tone and provide rejuvenation to the skin. Fraxel is an effective treatment option for; fine lines and wrinkles, surface scarring (acne or surgical scarring), pigmentation (age spots, freckling, melasma), sun damaged skin or for the treatment of actinic keratosis.
How does Fraxel work?
Fraxel is a brand of a fractionated laser. Fractionation means that the laser beam is divided into microscopic thermal zones resulting in only a fraction of the skin is treated. This then means that the surrounding skin of the thermal zone is left untreated resulting in quicker healing time; this is dependent on the density and condition being treated.
Fraxel has two wavelengths; 1927nm and 1550nm. Treatments can either be performed with each individual wavelength or as a dual which means that both laser wavelength are performed. Fraxel 1927nm treats epidermal (superficial) concerns like pigmentation or superficial creping.
When can I expect to see results from Fraxel?
You will start to see changes within 5-7 days following treatment with Fraxel however full effect is not until the 3 month mark as your skin cells are still healing under the surface.
What is involved in a Fraxel treatment?
Fraxel is a brand of a fractionated laser. Fractionation means that the laser beam is divided into microscopic thermal zones resulting in only a fraction of the skin is treated. This then means that the surrounding skin of the thermal zone is left untreated resulting in quicker healing time; this is dependent on the density and condition being treated.
Fraxel has two wavelengths; 1927nm and 1550nm. Treatments can either be performed with each individual wavelength or as a dual which means that both laser wavelength are performed. Fraxel 1927nm treats epidermal (superficial) concerns like pigmentation or superficial creping.
What should I expect after a Fraxel treatment?
Immediately after a Fraxel treatment:
- A mild sunburn sensation may be experienced following treatment. Cool compresses or thermal water spray may be used to alleviate discomfort.
- Swelling may be experienced. It is essential that whilst resting or sleeping that elevation is maintained at least 45degrees (two pillows).
- Make up should be avoided to be used whilst the skin is in the first days of healing. After day 4-5 mineral makeup can be worn.
- Erythema will be experienced following treatment. This can persist for up to 3 months following treatment.
- Skin hydration is required to ensure that the skin heals well. Ointments are required for the first 2-3 days following this a hydrating gel or cream can be used as an alternative.
- Sun protection should be adhered to for 3 months following treatment. This will reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation.
7-10 days following treatment:
- Your surface skin is almost completely healed by this point. It is now crucial to protect your skin to ensure the success from treatment, Sun protection should be strictly adhered to, which means wearing hats, sunglasses, applying sunscreen, reapplying sunscreen, and avoiding UV exposure during the peak UV times.
- Some erythema (redness) may still be experienced and this can persist for up to 3 months as previously mentioned your skin continues to heal for up to 3 months following treatment and this can indicate that there is little blood vessels still working to heal your skin.
- Your skin may go through phases of dryness and normal. This is a normal process of the skin healing, tailor your moisturising to your skin.
How do I look after my skin following Fraxel?
- 24 hours: excessive exercise, hot showers or sauna use.
- 2-5 days: anti-acne skin cares, topical vitamin A (retinols)
- 1 week: shaving or hair trimming.
- 6 weeks: exfoliating products (AHA, BHA ingredients, scrubs), waxing, plucking or depilatory use. IPL or laser hair treatment or skin rejuvenation. Sun exposure. Facial or other chemical exfoliation treatments. Microdermabrasion. Anti-wrinkle and dermal filler injections.
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