Fraxel technology is one of the most effective laser procedures in the world for the treatment of many cosmetic defects.
The laser removes the upper layer of the epidermis, as a result of which the skin is rejuvenated and tightened, becomes smooth and elastic. Activates regenerative processes, promoting tissue repair and wound healing. The beam affects the fibrous tissue, as a result of which the skin defects become almost invisible in a few procedures.
The principle of this procedure is that under the action of the laser, old cells are removed, and thus the formation of new ones. Fractional thermolysis (photo) (another name for the method) helps to achieve elasticity, firmness, healthy and fresh skin color, helps to cope with pigmentation and effectively fights wrinkles. As a result, you get young and well-groomed skin.
The popularity of the procedure lies in the fact that Fraxel is absolutely safe for the skin. This device has passed numerous tests and scientists have been able to improve it to such an extent that it does not cause any harm to humans!
§one. What problems are eliminated with fractional lasers?
There are currently two types of fractional lasers: these are carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers and non-ablative (or non-ablative) laser systems (such as Fraxel), which differ from each other in the wavelength of the laser (i. e. the depth of penetration of laser radiation).
Fraxel and similar laser devices are designed for patients under the age of fifty with small and superficial wrinkles and moderate acne. Carbon dioxide lasers are aimed at older patients with deeper wrinkles and severe scarring (including acne). Fractionated CO2 systems affect not only the surface of the skin, but also its deeper layers, so the recovery period after such procedures lasts longer than with the Fraxel procedure.
In this article we will consider more delicate laser systems using the Fraxel laser as an example.
The Fraxel procedure solves the following problems:
- Sunburn, wrinkles, age-related changes on the face, neck, décolleté, hands, but also on the arms, legs and back;
- Some types of melasma
- Some types of scars after acne and surgery
- sagging of the upper eyelids;
It also reduces the risk of skin cancer (by repairing skin damaged by ultraviolet radiation).
Fractional lasers are not designed to combat redness, but they can be used to correct brown pigment spots quite well.
To get rid of a particular problem, as a rule, three to five sessions are required, which are carried out at intervals of 3-8 weeks. The main benefits of using fractional laser systems are minimal risk and almost no discomfort.
What is the difference between Fraxel and Fraxel Dual?
The Fraxel Dual laser is a more advanced machine, so it is more effective (than the conventional Fraxel) in fighting age spots and sunburn. It is best to use this device on large areas, such as the décolleté, arms, legs and back. But if melasma is your main problem, talk to your dermatologist about the possibility of using alternative devices and procedures.
How does the Fraxel laser machine work?
The Fraxel laser creates a beam divided into a large number of microscopic rays, so during the procedure not the entire surface of the skin is irradiated, but its individual sections - the microzones. About 1000-2000 of these microzones are created on one square centimeter of skin. By penetrating the skin, the laser radiation destroys old cells and stimulates the formation of new cells and new collagen. During one session, up to 15-20% of sunburned, scarred or wrinkled skin is replaced.
Can Fraxel Rejuvenation be combined with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes. But only permanent or temporary filler injections should be done at least one week after the Fraxel procedure. If you prefer injections, you must first perform the fractional photothermolysis procedure; if you want to do the injections first, you will have to wait three months and even then the fraxel procedure. As for the thermage, it can be performed a week before the fraxel procedure or a week after the fraxel rejuvenation.
How long does the effect last after the Fraxel procedure?
It depends on two factors: the characteristics of your body and how well you protect your skin from ultraviolet radiation. Your skin will stay young much longer if you use sunscreen and wear clothes that completely hide your body. If you visit a solarium or walk a long time in the scorching sun, the skin will return to its original state in a few months. But if you take good care of your skin and perform maintenance procedures once a year, you will delay aging for several years and look young and irresistible for many years to come!
When are the first results visible after the procedure? How long does it take to reach the final result?
Many patients notice improvement only one week after the first session. The skin becomes more even and smooth, the natural color returns.
The result of the procedure largely depends on your goals. If you are carrying out a series of procedures, the final result can be obtained only 5-6 months after the start of treatment, that is, at the end of the last session. But even after the end of the procedures, the action of laser radiation will work wonders: for another 3-6 months the process of forming new collagen will last, which means that the restoration and renewal of the skin will continue.
How much do fraxel procedures cost?
The prices for fraxel rejuvenation procedures depend on the country, the clinic you applied to and the area of the treated area.
§2. Execution of the procedure
What does Fraxel Skin Rejuvenation look like?
You will need to arrive at the clinic an hour and a half before the procedure begins, in total you will have to stay there just over two and a half hours. You will be asked to remove your makeup and an anesthetic cream will be applied to your skin. As the cream starts to work, you can read or listen to music, after an hour the cream will be removed and you will be taken to the treatment room. There you will sit comfortably and a thin layer of gel will be applied to your skin, with the help of which the laser machine roller will slide a little better. The Fraxel Dual laser does not require gel.
A session lasts about an hour, and a slight tingling sensation may be felt during the procedure. Most patients drive on their own after the procedure.
What is Fraxel Eyelid Rejuvenation?
Before the procedure, patients remove all cosmetics from their eyes, and if they have had a permanent tattoo, they notify their doctor. Special protective lenses are inserted into the eyes.
The procedure can be performed on both the upper and lower eyelids, and Fraxel's eyelid rejuvenation can be combined with facial photothermal. Slight swelling and redness for two to three days after the procedure is considered normal.
Is special training required?
For 1-2 weeks:
- Start making ice
- Purchase a gentle facial cleanser
- If possible, stop taking Aspirin and its derivatives
- Stop taking retinols
- Avoid anti-aging drugs
- Discontinue any procedures that require the use of any glycolic acids
- Don't sunbathe
- Stop taking minocycline, doxycycline and tetracyclines
- Do not wax
- Do not wash your face with scrubs, do not do microdermabrasion
- If you often have cold sores on your face, be sure to tell your doctor.
On the day of the procedure:
- Make sure you arrive at the clinic at the agreed time so that your doctor can take a picture of you and apply anesthetic cream
- Have lunch 1-2 hours before the procedure
- If you drink coffee, it should be at least four hours since the last cup before the procedure.
- Dress in a way that makes you feel comfortable
- If possible, do not wear makeup and put in contact lenses
- Bring a wide-brimmed hat with you to the clinic so you can use it later to hide your face from the sun
Are you pregnant or breastfeeding? So this procedure is not for you.
Is your skin prone to hyperpigmentation? Tell your doctor and he will prescribe skin whitening procedures.
§3. After the procedure
How will I look right after the procedure is over? How long will the recovery period last?
For the first 24 hours after the procedure, your skin will look as if it has suffered from severe sunburn. For the first 5-6 hours after the session, every hour for 5-10 minutes, apply something cold to the treated area (for example, ice from the freezer).
Immediately after the end of the procedure, the skin will sharply turn red, the redness will gradually disappear and it will take three days. As a rule, patients return to their usual lifestyle and go to work on the day of the session, but many prefer to stay at home for a day or two. But it can also happen that the redness stays a little longer on the face. Redness can be masked with cosmetics. Bruising is also possible - they disappear on their own within one to two weeks. Therefore, if you are planning an important event - a wedding, an anniversary - do the procedure two or three weeks before the planned event.
After each session, the skin acquires a bronze tint (like after a sunburn), which can last up to a week or two. The skin can peel and peel, so be sure to use moisturizers.
Remember that to get a good result, you will need to be patient and go through several sessions.
Skin Care Instructions After Fraxel Rejuvenation:
- It is possible to remove swelling after fraxel, if for the first 5-6 hours after the procedure every hour for 10 minutes apply cold to the treated area. Wrap the ice in a clean cotton cloth or towel
- Protect the skin from any mechanical impact, if the procedure was performed on the body, wear loose clothing
- Men can only shave on the second or third day, and this should be done as carefully as possible.
- Refuse for some time to visit the bath and sauna. You can take a shower, but for the first three days the pressure shouldn't be strong, the water should be slightly warm
- Avoid sports and yoga for the first 48 to 72 hours
- Don't drink alcohol for the first two days
- Put an extra pillow or two under your head at night
- Avoid sunbathing for at least four weeks and apply protective sunscreen to your skin. If you need to be outdoors for a long time during the day, apply sunscreen every 2-4 hours, wear a hat with a wide brim
- A week or two after the procedure, do not use retinoids and products that contain glycolic acid in their composition. Before you start using any new cream, be sure to consult with your doctor.
- In the first month after the procedure, do not perform chemical peels and microdermabrasion
Will I be able to return to my normal lifestyle immediately after the procedure is over?
No. The fraxel rejuvenation procedure requires rehabilitation: stay at home for at least a day, apply the cold to the treated skin. You can return to your usual lifestyle, start playing sports in one to seven days. Swimming in chlorinated water pools for 1-3 weeks is not recommended. Before you go out, treat your skin with sunscreen (your doctor will recommend it) and be sure to wear a wide-brimmed hat.
How many sessions will I need?
Three to five. The interval between sessions should be between three and eight weeks. The number of sessions depends on the severity of the problem that concerns you. The effect will gradually increase with each session.
§4. Frequent questions
Does the fraxel laser have any contraindications?
Yes, fraxel rejuvenation is contraindicated for pregnant women and nursing mothers. Also, do not perform this procedure for people taking blood thinners and drugs that increase photosensitivity.
Does the procedure have any side effects?
The most serious side effects are temporary swelling, redness, bruising, blistering, and crusting.
Is there an alternative to Fraxel lasers?
Yes, in addition to delicate lasers like Fraxel, there are more powerful ablative (ablative) fractional carbon dioxide laser systems: DOT, Active Fx and Affirm. CO2 lasers affect the deeper layers of the epidermis, but require a longer recovery period.
Fraxel devices are among the first non-ablative (non-ablative) fractional lasers, so they are used more often. Many dermatologists prefer Fraxel laser systems as they provide more reliable and predictable results.
Is it possible to remove acne scars with Fraxel laser facial resurfacing?
Yes, Fraxel lasers have proven to be very effective in fighting small and superficial acne scars. With deep scarring after acne, it is easier and more effective to fight with CO2 lasers. If you choose Fraxel to treat deep scars, you will need a little more treatments than a carbon dioxide laser.
Can Fraxel tighten sagging skin?
No.
Is it possible to eliminate wrinkles with Fraxel?
Fraxel's rejuvenation procedure can significantly correct small and superficial wrinkles. In the fight against wrinkles and deep furrows, Fraxel devices are ineffective. These lasers work best on the skin of patients between the ages of 30 and 50 with slightly sagging skin and superficial wrinkles. And the most striking effect can be seen in people who have received severe sunburn - three to five procedures are required to fully restore the skin.