Fraxel Laser

Rather than removing the surface skin layers, Fraxel addresses the deeper skin tissue where most problems reside.

Fraxel leaves the surface skin intact (hence the ultra-quick healing) and works by producing thousands of tiny heat columns deep into the dermis. The energy of the laser damages and removes the old collagen (including abnormal pigment). This stimulates the body’s natural healing process whereby new collagen is produced, leading to a clearer, smoother and firmer appearance that will continue to improve over time.

The beauty of Fraxel, and the vast improvement over old style laser resurfacing, is the ‘in-between’ areas of skin that the Fraxel leaves untouched. We can choose the ‘density’ of the treatment zones according to your needs, leaving ample surrounding tissue unaffected - which allows the skin to heal ‘invisibly’.

Fraxel is the most effective treatment for acne scarring. It can also fade stubborn pigmentation such as melasma / chloasma, where conventional methods have failed. It is particularly effective under the eyes for fine lines and thinned skin, which is a major leap forward in laser technology, as the skin under the eyes has been traditionally hard to treat. Fraxel will also improve and refine open pores.

Any body area may be treated safely and effectively, including the neck, chest and back of hands. Most people will need 3-5 treatment sessions, approximately 4-6 weeks apart, however this will be tailored for each individual and we may choose to space treatment sessions even further apart.

Results are immediate and progressive, with optimal improvement usually seen within 3 to 6 months after the completion of the course of treatments.

As with most cosmetic procedures, Fraxel treatments involve some level of discomfort that varies greatly according to the treated area. A local anaesthetic cream is applied to the treated area 60 minutes prior to the treatment and the settings can be adjusted to match your individual comfort threshold.

Additionally, cold air is blown onto the skin surface to reduce heat and maximise comfort. The sensation is likened to one of pins and needles during the treatment, with a mild burn afterwards.

The breakthrough about ‘fractionated’ laser technology is that there is little downtime involved compared to traditional resurfacing lasers. Most people will be able to resume their normal activities 2 days after treatment (and we have Saturday appointments available).

There will be general immediate swelling of the skin, which makes the face look fuller for 2-5 days but can sometimes last longer. The skin may have a pink or bronzed colour for 5-10 days and this is easily coverable with make-up. The skin’s natural exfoliation will be increased as the old skin cells shed, giving the skin a dry appearance and ‘sandpaper’ feel for about a week following the procedure.

You may moisturise, apply make-up or shave soon after treatment.