Fraxel Laser Benefits
Written by DR. Courtney Austin, MD
As all of us age, we all start to notice some subtle skin changes in texture, color, and wrinkling over time. Taking charge of your skin care routine with minimally invasive techniques is a great way to improve those age-related changes that can affect everything from our skin's health to our self-confidence.
Preventative maintenance is one of the most effective advances in non-surgical skin care.
Using a non-ablative skin laser, such as a Fraxel laser, targets microscopic areas of the skin to create a controlled inflammatory process to build collagen, reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone and texture, and even prevent progression of small problematic skin lesions, such as actinic keratoses, into cancers.
Fraxel lasers are also shown to help with post-acne scarring, facial scars, melasma, and rosacea-associated skin changes. Significant success has been seen in reducing problematic hyperpigmentation, commonly referred to as age spots or sunspots. These spots are specifically targeted by fractional lasers to enhance skin turnover, and literally "wipe off" days after the laser treatment.
Fractional laser treatment most importantly can delay the desire for more invasive surgical treatments in the future, such as face-lifts. When used preventatively, with regular treatments, it can preserve skin's youthful appearance with very minimal downtime.
For patients who are seeking a more natural appearance, a Fraxel laser treatment can give you the wrinkle reduction and fullness in a softer way than can be obtained from fillers and more invasive procedures, such as lower facelifts.
As with any medical aesthetic procedure, it is important to have a good team caring for your skin, including trained laser and medical professionals who are able to assess your skin's potential with these types of treatments.
What is Fraxel Laser Treatment?
Fraxel is a non-invasive laser therapy that targets aging and sun-damaged skin, promoting collagen production and skin rejuvenation. The Fraxel creates microscopic columns to penetrate deep into the skin, stimulating collagen production and resurfacing the top layer of the skin.
What does the Fraxel actually treat?
Fraxel is your go-to for:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage and dark spots
- Acne scars
- Melasma and uneven pigmentation
- Overall texture - smoother skin, smaller pores, the works
Is the treatment painful?
It can cause discomfort, but numbing cream is used to ease the pain. The sensation ranges from a warm prickly feeling to a light sunburn sensation. It's not a massage or facial but is easily tolerated by most individuals.
Is it just for the face?
Nope, it's versatile! Fraxel can be used on various body parts, including the neck, chest, and hands.
Who isn't a good candidate?
People with active skin infections, certain skin conditions, and pregnant women.
What is the standard healing time after a Fraxel treatment?
Typically, after Fraxel treatment, healing time ranges from a few days to a week. Expect redness, swelling, and a rough "sandpaper" feel for about 3-7 days depending on the intensity of the treatment. Makeup can usually be worn after 2-3 days. Most people can resume normal activities within a few days, with full recovery in about a week.
How many treatments are needed?
One Fraxel session can without a doubt make a difference, but usually 3 to 5 sessions, spaced about 4 weeks apart, give the best results.
Fraxel healing timeline:
Day 1: Skin may appear red and feel like a sunburn. Swelling is common.
Days 2-3: Redness fades, but skin may darken and feel tighter. Minimal flaking could start.
Days 3-5: Skin begins to peel, revealing fresh, rejuvenated layers underneath.
Days 6-7: Peeling subsides. Most of the redness and swelling should be gone.
Week 2-4: Skin continues to improve in texture and tone. Full results can be appreciated as collagen remodeling takes place.
Read Fraxel Laser Benefits by DR. Courtney Austin, MD, and other Glacier Med Spa articles in 406 Woman Magazine.