Fraxel Laser Resurfacing in Washington, DC
Before and After Gallery *
The Fraxel Laser is the gold standard treatment to improve sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and skin discoloration with little or no downtime. The Fraxel Laser Treatment is also a component of our comprehensive acne scar removal program. The Fraxel Laser Treatment is a revolutionary advance in skin rejuvenation providing safe and effective improvements in skin tone and texture in all skin types. Often imitated but never replicated, the Fraxel Laser remains the #1 most sought after treatment for low to no downtime fractional skin rejuvenation. Call our office at 202-966-8814 or click here to request a consultation to learn how Fraxel can improve your skin.
How does the Fraxel Laser Treatment Work?
The Fraxel Laser utilizes the concept of fractional photothermolysis, creating thousands of precise treatment columns in the skin known as microthermal treatment zones (MTZ). These microscopic treatment zones stimulate the skin’s own wound healing processes, leading to increased skin turnover, removal of excess skin pigment, and stimulation of new collagen within the upper layers of skin. This in turn produces long-lasting improvement in skin tone and texture and a reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, crepe skin, and enlarged pores. As a fractional laser treatment downtime after each treatment is minimal, with post treatment effects of mild and redness and swelling typically lasting less than 24-48 hours. On our popular Fraxel Friday’s, many patients receive treatment and are back at work on monday with nearly no evidence that they underwent a highly effective skin procedure just days before.
Fraxel Dual Treatment / Combination Treatments
The latest iteration of the Fraxel Laser is the Fraxel Dual, which offers two separate wavelengths, 1550nm and 1927nm. These wavelengths can be used individually or combined during treatment. The 1550nm wavelength generates improvement in fine lines and wrinkles as well as enlarged pores. The 1927nm wavelength primarily produces improvement in skin tone and complexion. During the Fraxel Dual Laser Treatment both wavelengths are utilized within the same treatment session. While the Fraxel Dual Laser Treatment is highly effective in improving both skin tone and texture, downtime is slightly increased compared to treatment with the 1550nm wavelength alone.
The Fraxel Laser Treatment is often combined with other treatments on the same day. For patients with extensive sunspots (lentigos) we will often combine IPL Photofacial Treatment or Q-Switch Ruby Laser Treatment to address pigmentary issues, followed by a Fraxel 1550nm laser treatment to address fine lines and wrinkles and other textural abnormalities. We have found that combining IPL and/or Q-Switch Laser treatment with the 1550nm Fraxel Laser Treatment to provide superior overall tone and texture results than those achieved with the Fraxel Dual Treatment, with far less post-procedure downtime.
Preparing for Treatment
The Fraxel Laser Treatment is typically well tolerated with only topical anesthetic (numbing cream). We also offer the Pro-Nox nitrous oxide system for a small additional fee. The treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed prior to the procedure and standardized photos utilizing our Visia Photo System will be performed. It is recommended to avoid blood thinners such as ibuprofen, alcohol, and makeup application for the 24 hours prior to treatment. Retinoids and other active topical skin care products should be discontinued 24-48 hour prior to each treatment.
After Treatment
You will experience a mild sunburn sensation for about an hour followed by minimal to no discomfort. The Fraxel laser treatment stimulates a large scale skin renewal process. Components of this process are detailed below:
Swelling and Redness – Your skin may be slightly swollen with a pink tone for 48-72 hours after each treatment. Intermittent cold compresses are recommended to reduce swelling and redness during this period.
Sun Protection – Use of a broad spectrum SPF 30 or above mineral based sunscreen daily and other sun protection measures are recommended during the initial post-treatment period
Skin Care – Makeup use can be restarted immediately after treatment if desired. We recommend avoiding irritating skin care products for 5 days after each treatment.
Fraxel Laser Treatment Consultation
During your consultation Dr. Adrian or a member of ours staff will meet with you, examine your skin, discuss your skin rejuvenation goals, and determine if the Fraxel Laser is the right treatment to achieve your goals. The treatment process and schedule of treatments will be discussed, as well as pricing and treatment package discounts.
To schedule a Fraxel Laser Treatment Consultation please call us at 202-966-8814 or click here to schedule a consultation appointment by email.
