Fraxel Laser Resurfacing in Washington, DC
Fraxel Laser Resurfacing Before and After Gallery *
The Fraxel and Fraxel Dual Laser Treatment is the gold-standard treatment to improve sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and skin discoloration with minimal downtime. The Fraxel Laser Treatment is also a component of our comprehensive acne scar removal program. Often imitated but never replicated, the Fraxel Laser remains the most sought after treatment for low downtime skin rejuvenation. Call our office at 202-966-8814 or click here to request a consultation to learn how Fraxel Laser Treatment 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 ReStore Vs. Fraxel Dual Treatment
The most advanced version 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 (the wavelength of the original Fraxel Re:Store Laser) is a deeply penetrating heat producing wavelength responsible for improvements in overall skin texture, fine lines and wrinkles, and pore size reduction. The 1927nm wavelength is a superficial microablative wavelength which is able to target pigmentation such as sunspots and lentigos through superficial epidermal ablation. Depending on the goals of treatment, either the 1550nm wavelength or a combination of 1550/1927 wavelengths (Fraxel Dual) will be utilized. Interesting Fact: The heavily marketed ‘Moxi’ Laser Treatment is the same 1927nm wavelength incorporated into the Fraxel Dual Treatment performed as a standalone treatment, so every Fraxel Dual treatment is effectively a Fraxel Re:Store Treatment plus a ‘Moxi’ treatment put together.
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 Photofacial and/or Q-Switch Laser treatment with Fraxel 1550nm to consistently provide superior results to the Fraxel Dual Treatment from an overall complexion and texture standpoint.
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 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, Vitamin C serums, and other active topical skin care products should be discontinued 24-48 hour prior to each treatment, and can be restarted 5-7 days after 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 our staff will meet with you, examine your skin, discuss your skin rejuvenation goals, and determine if the Fraxel Laser Treatment 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.
