Fraxel and Fractional Laser Resurfacing

About the Fraxel Laser Treatment

Fraxel Laser Treatments are usually conducted in the doctor's office or at the Medical Day Spa. Make sure to allow at least 90 minutes for the entire session. The first 45 - 60 minutes are spent relaxing while waiting for the topical anaesthetic to activate. The treatment itself is only 25 to 30 minutes long.

The anaesthetic both reduces any discomfort as well as acting as a lubricant for the hand-held device that delivers the laser beams. Most people say that the treatment is not painful or uncomfortable, but that they feel a prickly sensation. The blue tint and anaesthetic ointment are washed off immediately after the treatment. A Typical Fraxel treatment programme involves 2-5 procedures spaced approximately two weeks apart. You can space your treatments farther apart if that is more convenient for you. The number of sessions depends upon the individual and the condition being treated.

You will be able to return to your normal activities directly after your session. Your face may be a bit swollen or red for the first couple of days after treatment, but this can be easily camouflaged with make-up.

Is Fraxel® Laser Treatment painful ?

Most patients describe the treatment as having a "prickling" sensation. The topical anaesthetic ointment and air cooling alleviates some of the discomfort. On a scale of 0-10 the pain factor has averaged a 6/10.

What should I expect after Fraxel® Laser Treatment?

During the first 48 hours after treatment, your skin may feel as though it is sunburned, and it will appear pink or red. Make-up can be worn to reduce the sunburned appearance. Your skin will naturally bronze over the next week or two. As you continue treatment, the sunburned to bronze conditions will repeat. Just like a natural sunburn, your skin will flake and exfoliate normally. Using a moisturizer will help reduce the appearance of dry flakes.

What precautions should I take after treatment?

Wearing sunscreen of SPF 50 or higher twice a day is especially important. Avoid direct sun exposure during the healing process and for at least 3 months after treatment. Wearing wide brimmed hats is highly recommended when out in the elements.

Recovering from Fraxel Laser Treatments

There is no painful or uncomfortable recovery associated with Fraxel Laser Treatments. Most people compare it to having a mild sunburn: your face will be flushed and you may experience a slight swelling. Both will diminish in the following two days. Your treatment area may appear bronzed or tan for up to two weeks after treatment and your skin will begin to flake off — just like a sunburn. This is a sign of healing and repairing.

To learn more please use the links to the right or contact us for a consultation.

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