This treatment targets the damaged skin with a microscopic laser beam that penetrates deep into your skin to speed up the body’s process to remodel collagen. Because the laser treats only a “fraction” of tissue at a time, it leaves the other tissue intact. This allows for a relatively quick healing process. This treatment does not remove skin, so it is less aggressive than other procedures. This minimizes down time; but you will probably need more treatments.
You will have a consult visit prior to the treatment where the physician and nurse will go over all necessary skin preparations. You will also be given prescriptions to bring with you the day of the procedure. On the day of your treatment you will arrive 1 ½ hours prior to the procedure. You will have photographs taken for your chart and topical anesthetic applied. You will also be given oral medication to decrease any discomfort. The face takes approximately 30 minutes, while the chest, neck, hands, and arms require less time. Up to two body parts can be done on the same day.
During the first 24 hours after the treatment, your skin may feel as though it is sunburned. It will be pink or red and you will probably have some swelling. Most redness fades within a few days. If the treatment is for brown sunspots you will bronze over the next week or two and like sunburn you will flake and exfoliate normally. You will be able to use a mild moisturizer to minimize the dryness. If you are being treated for acne scaring your may have slightly more redness and swelling. Most patients can go back to work or their normal activities after a day or two.
Swelling and redness are the most common and are generally expected. They are typically minimal and subside with a day or two. Other temporary side effects may include minor itching, peeling, and bronzed skin. There is also a limited risk of infection, hyperpigmentation (dark spots), or scarring. We will provide you with a complete list of instructions about everything you need to do following the procedure to reduce any chance of an adverse reaction. We are committed to providing you with best care and optimal results.
You should wear a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, avoid direct sunlight for three months after your last treatment, and wear a wide brimmed hat when you are in the sun.
Every patient is different, so it depends on individual needs to determine how many treatments are needed to achieve the desired results. Generally, three to five treatments are spaced four to six weeks apart.
If you are interested in finding out more about on the Fraxel treatments we offer at Ark-La-Tex Dermatology, please contact one of our two convenient locations for a consultation.
Our doctors are Board Certified Dermatologists who have extensive training with a variety of lasers. Our physicians have had specialized training with Solta Medical (Fraxel) trainers, as well as at the Fraxel headquarters in San Francisco.
