Dr. Jane Yoo explains how Fraxel fractional laser works for fine lines, sun damage, acne scars, and melasma. The treatment uses 1550 nm or 1927 nm wavelengths, requires topical anesthetic, and causes redness and peeling for several days. Most people need 3 to 5 sessions for best results.
I'm Dr. Jane Yoo, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Today we're going to discuss the Fraxel laser, one of the latest treatments available for skin rejuvenation, particularly for those looking to address a variety of skin concerns including fine lines, sun damage, acne scars, as well as pigmentation. So how does Fraxel laser work? Unlike traditional lasers that treat the entire skin surface, Fraxel uses fractional technology, meaning that it creates thousands of microscopic treatment zones in your skin. These zones trigger your body's natural healing process, which stimulates the production of new collagen and replaces damaged skin with fresh, healthy tissue. The result? Smoother, more youthful skin with improved texture and tone. The Fraxel laser operates at two wavelengths, 1550 as well as 1927 nanometers, allowing it to treat deeper skin issues like acne scars and wrinkles as well as superficial pigmentary concerns such as sunspots and melasma. The procedure is minimally invasive and well tolerated. A topical anesthetic is usually applied an hour before treatment to ensure your comfort. You might feel some warmth or a prickling sensation as the laser works, but most patients find the experience manageable. What can you expect after treatment? Well, you'll notice definitely some redness and swelling similar to a sunburn. That typically lasts about 2 to 3 days. You might also experience some bronzing and peeling as your skin begins to shed the old damaged cells and new skin emerges. So it's important to avoid sun exposure after your treatment as your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays. Make sure to wear a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen and reapply throughout the day. Proxyl is highly customizable based on your skin needs and depending on your goals. Most patients see optimal results after 3 to 5 sessions spaced a couple weeks apart. Whether you're looking to reduce fine lines, improve acne scars, or address pigmentary issues, Fraxel offers noticeable improvements with minimal downtime compared to more aggressive treatments. So if you're ready for a non-invasive but effective way to refresh and rejuvenate your skin, the Fraxel laser might be the right choice for you. It's a fantastic solution for those looking to turn back time on their skin without significant downtime.
