Fraxel Laser Treatment - Explained

Introduction:

Fraxel laser treatment involves the application of a laser over the skin, which stimulates collagen and elastin production in the skin and provides a smooth texture. This treatment is also called fractional skin resurfacing treatment, as it targets only a fraction of the skin at a time.

What Are the Uses of Fraxel Laser Treatment?

Fraxel laser treatment is used in the following skin conditions.

• Wrinkles.

• Scars.

• Brown spots.

• Hyperpigmentation.

• Pitted scars.

• Acne scars.

• Fine lines.

• Open pores.

• Uneven skin tone.

• Dark circles.

• Puffiness.

• Stretch marks.

• Sun damage.

Is Fraxel an Ablative or Non-ablative Laser Treatment?

There are two types of skin resurfacing lasers: ablative and non-ablative.

• Ablative Lasers: Ablative lasers work by removing the outer layer of the skin and heating the connective beneath it to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Hence, they are called wounding lasers. Examples include carbon dioxide lasering and Erbium lasering.
• Non-ablative Lasers: Non-ablative lasers work only by heating the tissue beneath the skin, stimulating collagen production. They do not cause wounds and are called non-wounding lasers. After multiple visits, these types of lasers, such as intense pulsed light and pulsed dyes, can show significant changes in the skin. They can reduce acne scars, redness, and hyperpigmentation.

However, Fraxel lasers are available in both ablative and non-ablative forms. The choice of the type of laser depends on the skin type and the recommendation of your dermatologist.

Which Laser Treatment Is Better?

As we know, there are ablative and non-ablative lasers for skin resurfacing. However, the dermatologist recommends a non-ablative type than an ablative one as they are safe and do not cause wounds that take time to heal like ablative lasers. The ablative lasers are also not recommended as they cause hyperpigmentation in individuals with dark skin. So non-ablative lasers are found to be safe and best recommended by dermatologists.

Is Fraxel Better Than Microneedling Procedure?

Fraxel lasers and micro-needling are almost the same mechanisms, where they create micro wounds and stimulate collagen production in the connective tissue beneath the skin. However, they differ based on the severity of the skin condition for it to be used, as Fraxel lasers can penetrate deeper than the micro-needling procedure. For example, Fraxel lasers are indicated for severe skin conditions such as large scars and hyperpigmentation, whereas micro-needling is recommended for light acne, dark spots, and discoloration.

How to Prepare for the Fraxel Laser Treatment?

• The skin should be at its best before the treatment.

• The individual should avoid sun exposure for several days before the procedure.

• The individual should avoid waxing or laser hair removal on the site to be treated.

• The individual should avoid cosmetics with active ingredients such as retinol.

• The individual can have ice packs on the site.

• The individual can use a gentle cleanser only on the dermatologist's advice.

• The individual should not consume caffeine products for at least four hours before the procedure.

• The individual should eat a healthy meal an hour before the procedure.

• If the individual’s skin breaks out before the procedure, it is better to postpone the procedure until the acne shows down.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

The person is laid down in a reclined position, and painkillers are administered orally. A numbing cream or gel is also applied over the area to avoid discomfort during the procedure. After the laser exposure, the site is massaged with ice to reduce swelling and inconvenience after the procedure. The treatment may take up to one hour if the entire face is treated or much less if a specific area is treated. The desired result cannot be achieved in a single visit. Treating the skin three to five times may show significant improvement. There should be at least four weeks gap between the visits.

Is Fraxel Laser Treatment Painful?

Each person feels a different sensation during the procedure. However, a feeling of discomfort is common for everyone. Hence the dermatologist manages them by application of numbing cream, ice packs, and cold air. The ablative type is more painful than non-ablative lasers.

What Are the Side Effects of Fraxel Laser Treatment?

The Fraxel laser treatment is indicated for all skin types. However, they are not suitable for individuals with hyperpigmentation. In addition, they can lead to certain adverse reactions. They include:

• Acne.

• Redness.

• Swelling.

• Itching.

• Infection.

• Scarring.

• Changes in skin color.

How Long Does the Treatment Last?

The longevity of the results from the treatment depends on the skin type and color of the individual being treated. However, dermatologists recommend the treatment yearly for the best results.

How Many Sessions Are Required?

The number of sessions required depends upon the wavelength of the laser used for the procedure and the individual’s skin type. For example, If the skin type is too sensitive, the laser with the least wavelength is used, and the number of sessions may be around two to six times a year. In addition, the severity of the skin condition also determines the number of sessions required for the best results.

How Can We Make Fraxel Treatment Heal Faster?

The micro-wounds created by the lasers can heal faster by following the measures mentioned below.

• Applying milk on the face as lactic acid and fat can heal the skin.

• Washing the face with a gentle cleanser.

• Avoiding the use of face scrubs.

• Application of vitamin C serum or light moisturizers three times daily.

• Application of non-irritant and non-clogging products for sensitive skin.

How to Take Care After the Fraxel Laser Treatment?

The skin may appear like a sunburn after the treatment. So it is essential to stay away from the sun to avoid the aggressivity of the redness. The application of an ice pack would put you at ease. This should be done for about five to ten minutes six hours after the treatment. The redness will gradually reduce within three days.

Conclusion:

Fraxel laser treatment is best for individuals with severe skin conditions. However, the persistence of the results depends on how you maintain the skin after the treatment. And it is crucial to choose the best dermatologist, identify your skin type, choose the right laser treatment, and then get treated.