What is Fraxel Laser treatment?
Fraxel laser treatment is the premiere solution for fractional aesthetic skin resurfacing, delivering remarkable results with minimal downtime. Fraxel laser treatment is the gold standard for non-ablative skin resurfacing and rejuvenation, delivering remarkable results with minimal downtime.
The Fraxel laser treatment has received US FDA clearance to treat the skin problems like photodamage, mild to moderate periorbital wrinkles, acnes & surgical scars and pigmentations.
Unlike other laser treatments, Fraxel treatment is able to precisely treat thousands of microscopic areas of skin, using pinpoint laser beams that penetrate beneath the skin’s surface to eliminate old, damaged skin cells.
Since Fraxel treatment is so precise, it’s safe and effective on delicate skin areas like the neck, chest and hands, in addition to the face. You can expect two levels of results, immediate and progressive. Immediately after initial healing is complete, the surface of your skin will feel softer, look brighter, and tone will start to become even. Progressive results occur over the next three to six months as the deeper layers of skin continue to heal.
What is fractional photothermolysis?
The science of fractional photothermolysis, treats microscopic volumes of skin with each unique pulse, leaving the surrounding area intact for fast healing. These microscopic treatment zones (MTZs) – each just one-tenth the diameter of a hair follicle – penetrate to the precise height and width necessary, while sparing many of the stem cells and melanocytes in the papillary dermis. This fractional treatment results in both rapid reepitheliazation of the epidermis as well as collagen remodeling to depths of 1.6 mm. The skin heals much faster than if the entire area were treated at once, because the treatment uses the body’s natural healing process to create new, healthy tissue.
The treatment procedure involves these steps:
The treatment procedure will involves first cleansing the skin. Then, a topical anesthesia cream is applied to the treatment area about 60 minutes prior to treatment. Right before treatment begin, we shall wash off the anesthesia cream and apply a thin layer of the tracking gel. During the treatment which takes between 20 to 25 minutes, cold air is used on the treatment area to minimize discomfort. After the treatment, most patients report a feeling similar to having gotten too much sun. It usually disappears after 1 to 3 hours. After treatment, use of post laser cream for hydration followed by sunscreen.
How many Fraxel Laser treatments are in the typical treatment regimen?
Clinical studies suggest that on average, an effective treatment regimen is 3 to 5 sessions spaced about 2 to 4 weeks apart. Depending on patient’s condition and schedule, treatment sessions may be spaced further apart. Results are both immediate and progressive, with optimal improvement usually visible in 2 to 3 months. This time frame and treatment structure allow for complete healing and the production of new collagen and elastin to replace damaged tissue.
Does Fraxel Laser treatment hurt?
Most patients describe an increased sensation of heat during the treatment. To minimize discomfort, we need to apply topical anesthesia before the procedure and cold air during the procedure. After the treatment, most patients feel like they have a sun-burn, which usually diminishes in 1 to 3 hours.
What should patients expect after Fraxel Laser treatment?
During the first 24 hours after treatment, their skin may feel as though it is sunburned, and it will appear pink or red with mild swelling. Patients can wear make-up to reduce the sunburned appearance. The skin will develop a natural bronze appearance over the next week or two, and as treatment continues, the sunburned-to-bronzed appearance will repeat. As like a sun-burn, skin will flake and exfoliate normally. Patients are strongly advised to moisturize the skin regularly, avoid direct and prolonged sun exposure with usage of sunscreen.
What are the risks?
Edema and redness are the most common side effects from Fraxel Laser treatment. Any edema is typically minimal and subsides within a day or two, and any redness typically fades within a few days. Other temporary side effects may include minor itching, dry skin, peeling or flaking, and a prolonged bronzed skin appearance. There is a very limited risk of infection or scarring.
How long will the result last?
This is very subjective.
Aging is a continuous process in a human body. To achieve long lasting results, patients need to adapt good skincare habits and lifestyle. Avoidance of smoking, diet rich with antioxidants, sun protection and good skincare range can definitely help in slowing down the aging appearance in one’s skin. As mentioned before, intensive regime of Fraxel Laser treatment is done 3-5 sessions 2-4 weekly apart. On top of this, patients can opt to repeat Fraxel Laser treatment in the following year, spaced out 3-4 months apart as maintenance regimen. |
