Fraxel™ is a unique noninvasive laser therapy designed and FDA approved to dramatically improve acne scars and pores.  Fraxel™ utilizes fractional resurfacing technology, where only a small fraction of the skin receives the laser light. The treatment delivers a series of microscopic laser spots, while simultaneously preserving areas of unaffected, healthy skin. The healthy cells in the untouched spots promote rapid healing of the entire area, resulting in faster recovery time and minimal side effects.

The Treatment

Fraxel™ laser treatments can be performed right in our office using only topical anesthesia. After cleansing the skin, an FDA-certified blue tint is applied, followed by the anesthetic ointment. The blue tint darkens the tiny folds of the skin surface to increase contrast. This allows the robotic hand piece to map the contours of the treatment area as it glides across the skin, applying the laser treatment. The blue tint and anesthetic is washed off immediately after treatment.

A treatment typically will take approximately 20-40 minutes. Though treatment plans are flexible, clinical studies suggest that an effective treatment plan is three to four sessions spaced about two to three weeks apart. Each session targets about 12-20% of the skin’s surface, depending on the clinical parameters selected. Results are immediate and progressive, with optimal improvement usually visible in about two to three months and gradual improvement for up to a year.

After Treatment

While individual results vary, Fraxel™ offers the benefits of speedy healing and minimal downtime. Side effects usually involve swelling and redness. Mild swelling should subside within two to three days, and redness usually fades over five to seven days. There is limited, if any, risk of infection or scarring. New epidermal skin develops within 24 hours and requires adequate sun protection after treatment.  Most patients can return to routine activities immediately after treatment and can apply make-up the following day. Each session shows marked improvement in skin quality, resulting in a high level of patient satisfaction.