The Fraxel treatment is a revolutionary laser that helps remove years from your appearance and regain a more youthful look. This extremely safe and effective technology can be used on the face and anywhere else on the body including the hands, décolletage and neck.

How does FRAXEL work?

Fraxel utilizes a patented fractional technology to target damaged skin . The laser produces thousands of microscopic treatment zones (MTZ’s) that penetrate deep into the dermis (skin). As the laser treats only a “fraction” of the surface tissue at a time, the skin surrounding the pinpoint MTZ’s remains intact and unaffected. This promotes rapid tissue healing, much faster than if the entire skin where treated at once. The areas treated by the MTZ’s stimulates new collagen production and hence promotes the growth of fresh, new and healthy skin in their place. Repeated treatments create additional MTZ’s until the entire skin is treated.

What are the benefits of FRAXEL laser?

I have heard of Fraxel re:store® and Fraxel re:store® DUAL, what is the difference between these machines and do you do both?

Our machine is a Fraxel Re:store® Dual. It has two laser wavelengths, 1927 and 1550.

The 1927 produces dramatic improvement to sun damaged and pigmented skin with just one treatment. This is the newest of the treatments in the Fraxel range.

The 1550 treatment is used to improve deeper conditions like wrinkles, surgical scars, and acne scars. Significant results can be seen over a course of 3-5 treatments.

To see the comparison of these machines,  click here to see table.

How many treatments will I need?

This depends on the severity of the damage of the skin being treated. Usually we would recommend from 1-5 treatments, and for best results spread 4 - 6 weeks apart. With the 1927, most patients will see improvement after a single treatment. Maintenance treatments can be performed as needed. With the 1550, we recommend 3 – 5 treatments, once again depending on the severity of the damage of the skin being treated.

Are the FRAXEL laser treatments safe?

Although the Fraxel laser is a new and innovative technology, to date there have been no reports of scarring or infection from treatment. At high powers mild blistering and/or temporary skin discolouration can occur especially in darker skin patients.

Is the FRAXEL treatment painful?

A topical anaesthetic cream is applied to the affected area 45 minutes to 1 hour prior to the treatment to ensure comfort during the procedure.

How long does each treatment take?

For each session we ask you to allow 2 hours. This will include time for the topical anaesthetic cream to take effect. The laser treatment will last from 10-30 minutes depending on the size of the area treated.

What can I expect to feel during and after treatment?

As the laser moves over you skin you will feel a prickling sensation. Straight after the treatment your skin may feel like it has been sunburnt. This feeling of “heat sensation” and or itching usually disappears within 2-3 hours. We recommend that you apply icepacks to the treated area when you return home to help you feel more comfortable . Redness and swelling may also be commencing at this time.

How soon can I return to normal activities?

The redness and swelling may persist for a few days. The skin may then take on a “bronzed” and reddened appearance for up to 14 days. The duration of this will depend on the nature of your treatment and the area treated. (Areas treated off the face usually take a longer time to heal). You may then start to vigorously exfoliate (peel) as old dead cells are shed and are replaced by new younger ones. Rarely there may be crusting or blistering in some areas, especially if an aggressive treatment has been performed. Once the sloughing is complete you may notice a ”pinkness” over the next few weeks and although most redness resolves within the first week after treatment a “rosy” glow may remain for several weeks. Most patients will begin to see some improvement within a few days after the procedure, it is the collagen remodeling in the deep layers of the skin over the several months after treatment that causes smoothing and tightening. There may be gradual improvement for up to a year following a series of treatments.

How long should I take off work?

This is something that only you can answer. It is absolutely fine to resume your daily routine the next day however because of your “bronzed” and reddened face some people prefer not to be in their workplace.

Because I am having a topical anaesthetic is it okay for me to drive home after the procedure?

Driving home after the procedure is not a problem at all. The topical anaesthetic used is applied externally to the skin and does not affect your driving ability at all.

Is there anything special that I have to do prior to a treatment?

Yes, it is important to avoid use of any products containing glycolic acids, retinol or retinoids, bleaching agents and hydroquinone for one week prior to the procedure. These products can be resumed one week post procedure.

What care is necessary in the week following the Fraxel treatment?

What are the costs involved and is any of it covered by medical insurance?

Unfortunately this procedure is not covered by insurance. To find out more regarding the costs involved please make an appointment for a free consultation to discuss your concerns. At this time we can assess your individual needs and can give you an accurate quote of the cost schedule.