What is Fraxel laser treatment?

Fraxel treatment is a revolutionary laser treatment that helps you to remove years from your appearance. Fraxel is the pioneer of "fractional photothermolysis", a technology in which thousands of microscopic laser columns - each just one-tenth the diameter of a hair follicle - treat a fraction of the skin at a time without affecting the surrounding tissue. These laser columns stimulate the production of younger, smoother, healthier skin to replace damaged tissue.

How does Fraxel re:store treatment work?

Fraxel re:store laser treatment targets aging and sun-damaged skin with microscopic laser columns that penetrate deep into your skin to expedite your body’s remodeling of collagen. And since the laser treats only a fraction of tissue at a time, it leaves the surrounding tissue intact, which promotes very rapid healing. Fraxel re:store treatment resurfaces your skin by stimulating the growth of new, healthy skin cells from the inside out.

What are the benefits of Fraxel re:store treatment?

Smoother, fresher, younger-looking looking skin

Improved tone and texture

Erasing of unwanted brown spots

Reduced fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes

Improved appearance of acne scars and surgical scars

What FDA clearances has Fraxel re:store treatment received?

Wrinkles around the eyes (periorbital wrinkles)

Acne scars

Surgical scars

Age spots/sunspots (pigmented lesions)

Melasma (irregular patches of brown skin on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip and nose)

Actinic Keratoses (precancerous lesions)

Skin resurfacing

How are Fraxel re:store treatments performed?

First, your skin will be cleansed. Then, about 60 minutes prior to treatment, a topical anesthetic ointment will be applied to the treatment area. The Fraxel re:store procedure takes 20 to 25 minutes for a full face.

How many treatments will I need and how will they be spaced?

Clinical studies suggest that on average, an effective treatment regimen is 3 to 5 sessions spaced about 2 to 4 weeks apart. Depending on your condition and schedule, you and the physician may choose to space treatment sessions further apart. Results are immediate and progressive, with optimal improvement usually visible in 2 to 3 months. This time frame and treatment structure allow for complete healing and the production of new collagen and elastin to replace damaged tissue.

Does Fraxel re:store treatment hurt?

Most patients describe an increased sensation of heat during the treatment. To minimize discomfort, topical anesthesia is applied before the procedure and cold air is used on the treatment area during the procedure. After the treatment, most patients feel like they have a sunburn, which usually diminishes in 1 to 3 hours.

What should I expect after Fraxel re:store treatment?

During the first 24 hours after treatment, your skin may feel as though it is sunburned, and it will appear pink or red. You can wear make-up to reduce the sunburned appearance. Your skin will naturally bronze over the next week or two, and as you continue treatment, the sunburned-to-bronzed appearance will repeat. As with a sunburn, your skin will flake and exfoliate normally. Use a moisturizer to reduce the appearance of dry flakes.

What side effects can I expect after treatment and how long will they last?

Swelling and redness are the most common side effects from Fraxel re:store treatment. Any swelling is typically minimal and subsides within a day or two, and any redness typically fades within a few days. Other temporary side effects may include minor itching, dry skin, peeling or flaking, and a bronzed skin appearance. There is a limited risk of infection, hyperpigmentation, or scarring. The intensity and duration of side effects depend on the aggressiveness of treatment and on your particular healing characteristics. Your physician will provide specific instructions about what to expect and how to minimize any side effects. Please see ourcommittment to safety statement for a list of potential side effects.

What precautions should I take after treatment?

Wear sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, avoid direct sun exposure for at least 3 months after your last treatment, and wear a wide-brimmed hat when you're in the sun.

How long do the positive effects of Fraxel re:store treatment last?

It depends on your particular condition and how you care for your skin. Once your skin is treated, continue to protect it as described above. For conditions such as melasma, it is very important to avoid direct sun exposure. Your physician will give you specific advice based on your individual needs.

How much does Fraxel re:store treatment cost?

Depending on your condition and the areas to be treated, in the U.S. the cost ranges from $750 to $1,500 per treatment. Keep in mind that maximum benefit is usually achieved with an average of 3 to 5 treatment sessions spaced about 2 to 4 weeks apart.