Fraxel Laser - everything you need to know!

Get the Fraxel® lowdown with brand expert Kony Peev to learn the A-Z of the laser treatment everyone is talking about!

What is Fraxel designed to treat?

Fraxel is the gold standard in fractional laser technology. It treats numerous skin conditions like mild-moderate pigmentation, fine lines, pores, acne scarring, surgical scars and melasma. 

How does Fraxel work on the skin?

The fractionated laser energy creates tiny microscopic thermal zones in the skin (epidermis/dermis), bypassing the outmost layer of the skin so it remains intact, causing the body to 'shuffle' away the treated cells and heal from the inside out.

How long does the treatment take?

Following consultation and topical anaesthetic application the actual procedure is 20-30 minutes for a full face treatment.

How long does it take to see results?

Results are instant as well as progressive. The body's natural healing process starts immediately after the procedure, where initial redness and swelling may be present. This dissipates over the next couple of days followed by a bronzing (tanned look) of the skin by day 2-3. The skin heals from the inside out, it may feel tight and a little rough, but it is quickly shed and replaced by new fresh skin.

What skin types would Fraxel be suitable for?

Any skin colour and type - anyone looking at addressing mild-moderate pigmentation, fine lines, pores, acne scarring, surgical scars and melasma.

What age range would be best suited to experiencing Fraxel?

There is no set age range, anyone looking to treat a condition can have a Fraxel. Typically though clients who are active in their skin care, usually are having other procedures such as injectibles/peels etc tend to then move into laser treatments.

Why would you experience a Fraxel instead of a Clear+Brilliant?

Fraxel and Clear+Brilliant share the same technology, however Clear+Brilliant is a more mild/less aggressive treatment, with little to no down time. Fraxel has the ability to significantly increase the treatment parameters and is a more aggressive and effective It really comes down to what type of results the client is looking for, how much down-time they are willing to have and what they are trying to treat.

Results from one low-moderate setting Fraxel would be similar to at least 3 Clear+ Brilliant treatments, at a high level ( rough estimate ).

Do I need to have a consultation prior to treatment?

Yes absolutely, to discuss treatment options, concerns, expectations. To assess suitability and sign a consent form.

Are there any products I should use pre and post treatment?

Cease use of active topical preparations that contain retinoids at least 48 hours prior. Post treatment a hydrating moisturiser is a must and no active ingredients are allowed for one week. Continued use of a good skin care regime and sun screen is important.

What does the treatment feel like?

Like Clear+ Brilliant, a prickling sensation with an increasing heat sensation. It is sometimes described as a 'sunburnt feeling'.

How long is the treatment downtime/recovery period?

It depends on the treatment levels used (aggressiveness of the treatment) but in general, one experiences redness and swelling of varying degrees for 1-3 days, followed by a bronzing appearance and flaking/shedding of the skin. The whole process of healing lasts generally between 7-10 days. Make-up can be worn (mineral/non-occlusive) the day after treatment.