Before & After Fraxel Treatment at The Dermatology Institute of Victoria
Fraxel is pretty much the holy grail of treatments when it comes to radically combating hyperpigmentation and sun damage, acne scarring and/or wrinkles in a non-invasive, non-ablative (as in no open wounds) procedure. Why? Because it literally works from the inside out to resurface the skin, eradicating the damaged upper layers so that the unblemished skin below can rise to the surface. You could say it’s like a skin renaissance as Fraxel has the added benefit of promoting collagen and elastin creation to promote ongoing improvement of the skins condition.
SO, HOW DOES FRAXEL WORK?
Fraxel is a non-invasive, microscopic laser that treats an entire section of skin but selects small - fractional (hence the name) - areas that specifically require treatment. It intentionally “damages” a column of tissue under the skins surface. This stimulates the growth of new, healthy skin cells to replace old, damaged cells.
The Fraxel Dual laser uses two different wave lengths to treat different skin concerns. The 1927 wavelength superficially targets discolouration on the surface of the skin (hyperpigmentation, age spots, sun damage, and pre-cancer spots), while the 1550 wavelength laser penetrates deeper to combat fine lines, wrinkles and scarring.
HOW TO PREPARE AND WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE ACTUAL PROCEDURE
Any treatment is performed following consultation with a qualified practitioner and after targeted discussion around your specific skin concerns and the best course of treatment for them. Once Fraxel has been determined as your best course of treatment, there may be a few preparations to make. For example, if you are using any skin care products that contain retinoids these must be stopped a week prior to treatment.
Many previous patients have likened the feeling of the laser to a tingling, prickling, “pins and needles” sensation. The procedure itself will take around 45 minutes depending on the area being treated.
Fraxel is a revolutionary cosmetic procedure with outstanding results even after one treatment.
DOWNTIME & RECOVERY
The recovery time following Fraxel treatment is minimal. There will certainly be some redness and peeling for about 5 days following treatment with the worst of it appearing in the 2 days immediately following the procedure. It is imperative during this time that the skin is incredibly well protected from the sun (sunscreen! sunscreen! sunscreen!) and a good moisturiser applied twice a day. Exfoliating should be well and truly avoided.
One of the absolutely golden benefits of Fraxel is its ability to promote the regeneration of skin so that, in the month following the procedure, the skins condition continues to improve leaving fresh, clear, glowing skin as a long-lasting result.
