What can Fraxel Laser treat?
- Pigmentation; age spots, freckles and melasma
- Precancerous lesions such as Actinic keratosis
- Acne scarring and other surface scarring
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Thicken skin texture
- Uneven skin tone
What areas can be treated? +
Fraxel is commonly performed on the face, neck and chest. In some cases, certain skin conditions and concerns on the body can be treated with the Fraxel **
How many treatments are required?
The number of treatments required will depend on a variety of factors and will be discussed during your consultation.
For superficial concerns such as mild-moderate sun damage and pigmented lesions: 1-2 treatments
For deeper skin concerns and more severe sun damage: 3-5 treatments
For the treatment variety of concerns such as wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars and textural concerns: 1-5 treatments
What is involved in the treatment?
Before your treatment:
- Arrive to your appointment with no makeup, fake tan or recent sun exposure on the areas to be treated
- Avoid excessive and direct sun exposure and fake tanning products for 4-6 weeks prior to treatment
- Discontinue use of topical prescription products such a Tretinoin 7 days prior to treatment (unless otherwise instructed by your prescribing Doctor)
- Discontinue use of active skin care such as retinol or glycolic approximately 3-5 days prior to your treatment
- Advise your treating Dermatologist or Dermal Clinician of any regular medications or supplements you may be taking
During the treatment:
- An analysis will be performed to determine the most suitable treatment settings to suit your individual needs
- An effective numbing agent will be applied to the skin approximately 30 minutes to one hour prior to treatment
- You will be provided with protective laser eye goggles and will be required to wear them for the duration of the appointment
- The treatment itself usually takes 20-30 minutes from start to finish
- At the end of your treatment, your treating practitioner will apply cooling and protective products to your skin
Immediately after the treatment:
- It is expected that the treated area will look and feel like a sunburn, the skin may also be slightly puffy with a stingy sensation. This may linger for the first few hours following your treatment
- The use of makeup is not recommended post Fraxel
- Cold compress and ice packs or fans can be used to reduce discomfort and downtime
- Do not apply heavy body oils or cosmetic moisturisers after your treatment, as this can trap heat in the skin or sting
How to take care of your skin after the treatment:
As this is a more advanced laser treatment, for best results and safety we recommend the following:
- We recommend the use of our Laser Resurfacing Aftercare pack post treatment
- Avoid direct sun exposure and use SPF 50+ daily
- Avoid excessive exercise or activities that increase heart rate and body temperature until the redness and heat has completely subsided
- Avoid exfoliating the skin to allow the skin to go through the natural healing processes. At about 7-10 days post treatment, you are encouraged to come in for a post laser facial so we can review your skins progress
Risks and treatment suitability
With any cosmetic treatment, there are associated risks and complications. These risks are unlikely and rare, and occurrence can be dramatically reduced and managed if you adhere to the instructions and advice given to you by your treating practitioner.
Risks and complications:
- Prolonged redness and swelling
- Unwanted pigment changes
- Herpes reactivation
- Burns and blisters
- Lack of results
- Acne purge
- Infection
- Scarring
You be may be unsuitable to have this treatment if you;
- Are pregnant or breast feeding
- Are experiencing any active infections e.g. cold sores
- Are experiencing facial eczema, rosacea or dermatitis
- Have any fake tan or gradual tanning product on the treatment area
- Have had recent sunburn/ direct sun exposure in the treatment area
- Are currently undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy
