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How does the Fraxel®
SR Laser work?
FLT produces tiny, microscopic sites of thermal impact separated
by areas of unaffected, healthy tissue. Each treated spot, called
a MicroThermal Zone, stimulates the body's own natural production
of new collagen in the dermis and eliminates old epidermal pigmented
cells on the skin's surface. The spared healthy tissue contains
viable cells that promote rapid healing of the outer skin layers.
Since only 20% of the skin is treated by the laser on each visit,
there is speedy healing and minimal downtime.
What does the Fraxel®laser treat?
It smoothes fine lines and wrinkles on the face, including around
the eyes. It reduces sun damage, improves texture and tone of the
skin, and fades age spots, sun spots and pigmentation on the face,
neck, chest, back, forearms and hands. It also improves acne scarring
and reduces pore size. Fraxel®laser treatment results in fresh,
healthy skin and a renewed sense of confidence. All skin types benefit
from treatment. Fraxel also minimizes stretch marks.
How is the procedure done?
A topical anesthetic cream is applied for one hour. A cooling device
is used for comfort. Several passes are done over the treatment
area. Depending on the number of areas treated, the procedure takes
1 to 2 hours and is well-tolerated. If there is a history of cold
sores (herpes simplex), an oral antiviral medication is started
one day prior to treatment and continued for another 3 days.
How many treatments are required?
Typically, 3 to 5 treatments are necessary, about 3 to 4 weeks apart.
Improvement is noticed within 1 to 3 months. A maintenance treatment
done once or twice a year can maintain the results.
How will I look after the treatment?
The skin tends to be puffy for a day or so, red for one day, pink
for a few days and then appears tanned or bronzed for 3 to 14 days,
followed by flaking. Make-up can be applied immediately after the
treatment and men can continue to shave. Most patients return to
their routine activities by the next day.
Can Fraxel®laser treatment be used together
with other procedures?
Definitely! If spider veins are present, they can be treated with
intense pulsed light. If there is extensive sun damage, Levulan®
photodynamic therapy can be used. Botox® Cosmetic treats dynamic
wrinkles and fillers plump up deeper creases. Microdermabrasion
and light chemical peels can be performed for maintenance treatment
and anti-aging products should be used at home. As always, sun protection
is a must.
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