FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS FRAXEL LASER TREATMENT?
Fraxel is a light-based laser treatment designed to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. It involves making tiny injuries to the dermal tissues of your skin - known as ‘imprints’ - so that the laser can penetrate deep into the dermis, reaching thousands of microscopic treatment zones (MTZ’s).
Additionally, Fraxel treatment is highly effective as a scar minimisation technique for postoperative scar reduction. And it can also help reduce the visibility of pore sizes and improve your overall skin tone.
CAN FRAXEL TREAT ACNE SCARS?
Yes! Fraxel can be a great ‘overall treatment’ or generic prescription for acne scars. But keep in mind that every type of acne scar will have a particular solution that is best for that type of scar.
Fraxel can be the best choice for rolling, atrophic and mixed acne scars. On the other hand, depressed scars and tethered- anchored scars will respond better to subcision treatments. And deep ice pick scars will respond best to chemical peels. Come in for a complimentary consultation at StudioMD so we can assess your type scar and map out the best treatment for it.
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED WITH FRAXEL?
The number of sessions will depend on 3 factors: your skin colour, the condition of your skin and your required down time. There’s no one-treatment-fits-all approach with Fraxel. Darker skin patients will need more treatments than fair skin patients. And acne scarring will need more sessions than, for instance, treating solar keratosis or sun damage freckles.
To ensure that your skin heals up according to a specific timeline, we need to check how your skin will respond to the treatment with Fraxel. Because the more power that is used, the longer the down time, the less treatments you need. Conversely, if low power Fraxel is used, more treatments are needed.
IS FRAXEL PAINFUL?
Not really. When compared to most laser treatments, Fraxel is one of the least painful procedures available. But in case you are nervous about this topic, note that this procedure can be done under partial sedation. A topical anaesthetic applied before treatment with Fraxel laser will definitely minimise any possible discomfort you may experience during the procedure. Treatments with sedation involved generally take around one hour: 30 minutes for the topical anesthetic to take effect then 20-30 minutes for the treatment itself.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT POST TREATMENT?
After your Fraxel laser session, you can expect your skin to feel sunburnt and care for it as if it was. Avoid all sun exposure, keeping the skin hydrated and clean in order to combat any redness, swelling or slight flaking of dry skin.
Minimal mineral makeup can be used to help cover your initial post-treatment skin. But it is best that you schedule your treatment 3 weeks prior to any events or functions that require you to use a lot of it.
Avoid exercising, steam rooms, hot showers and sleeping directly on your face for at least one week after treatment. It is also best to quit alcohol for at least two days.
WHERE CAN I GET FRAXEL TREATMENTS NEAR MIDTOWN NYC?
At StudioMD, our experts will acknowledge your skin goals and draw a personalised skin plan specifically to your concerns and your skin type. The familiarity we’ve earnt with Fraxel enables us to deliver great results for all complexions. Book an appointment today and start on an anti-aging plan for your better self.