Fractional Laser Resurfacing

The Fraxel Erbium laser (1550 nm) was the original Fraxel Re:Store and remains as one of the two lasers of the current Fraxel Dual.  This laser has a relatively shallow depth of penetration and works well for acne scarring, skin toning, aging and sun damaged skin. If you have a history of cold sores or fever blisters, your doctor may prescribe antiviral treatment starting 3 days or so prior to your appointment.

Treatment can be somewhat painful, and topical numbing cream is typically applied for 30 minutes prior to your treatment to reduce the discomfort.  Desired outcomes are typically reached with 3 to 4 treatments approximately one month apart.  Acne scarring patients may benefit from more treatments. You may experience redness or swelling after the procedure which diminishes quickly over the next several days. It is common for skin to feel rough for a short time after treatment.

The Fraxel Thulium laser (1927 nm) is the newer laser that was added to the new Fraxel Dual.  This treatment helps with sun damage and hyperpigmentation with one to two treatments. The Fraxel Thulium has a deeper depth of penetration than the Fraxel Erbium, and uses a different light wavelength than the Fraxel Erbium. The best results are typically achieved with 1-2 treatments. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral treatment starting 3 days or so prior to your appointment.

As with the Fraxel Erbium, treatment can be somewhat painful, and topical numbing cream is typically applied for 30 minutes prior to your treatment to reduce the discomfort.  There is minimal downtime after the procedure.  Most patients report a feeling similar to a sunburn after treatment.  During the first week after your treatment, a mild topical steroid cream is often used, and the outermost layer of your skin will tend to turn brown (similar to a suntan in color) and crumble off with washing (using a gentle cleanser). Patients are strongly advised to avoid sun exposure during this time.