What is Fraxel Dual Treatment?
Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 laser is considered one of the best available treatment options for non-ablative fractional resurfacing of the face, neck, chest, and hands. Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 laser treatment targets aging and sun-damaged skin with microscopic laser columns that penetrate deep into your skin to expedite your body’s remodeling of collagen. And since the Fraxel laser treats only a fraction of tissue at a time, it leaves the surrounding tissue intact, which promotes very rapid healing. Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 treatment resurfaces your skin by stimulating the growth of new, healthy skin cells from the inside out.
The advanced Fraxel laser technology offers advanced skin repair with deeper dermal laser penetration (depths up to 1.6mm) than traditional treatments and is delivered by laser pulses in fractional patterns. The laser vaporizes tiny columns of tissue on the skin’s surface, stimulating the body’s natural skin cell and collagen regenerative responses. Because of its minuscule size, the Fraxel laser does not damage the surrounding healthy tissue, allowing for rapid healing to only the targeted area.
What can the Fraxel laser treat?
The Fraxel laser is FDA-approved for the treatment of:
- Age spots/sunspots
- Acne scars and other scarring
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Actinic keratoses
- Skin resurfacing
Fractional laser treatment is a true nonsurgical alternative to more invasive surgical and resurfacing procedures, as it significantly reduces the risks and recovery time associated with certain facial procedures, such as facelifts, and other resurfacing procedures.
What does the Fraxel Dual procedure involve?
During the Fraxel Dual procedure, the skin will first be cleaned, and then a topical anesthetic cream will be applied to the treatment area. The laser device rolls over the targeted area in order to deliver precise, effective energy that destroys damaged skin cells and promotes the growth of new, healthy skin.
The entire Fraxel Dual procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes to perform and is done right in your doctor’s office. Most patients report feeling an increased sensation of heat during this procedure. Any discomfort is minimized by the topical anesthetic applied before the procedure begins. To minimize discomfort cold air is used in the treatment area during the laser procedure.
What results can I expect from Fraxel Dual treatment?
The results of the Fraxel Dual procedure vary depending on each patient’s individual skin, but most report a significant improvement to the overall quality of their skin, including:
- Reduced appearance of brown spots
- Reduced fine lines and wrinkles
- Improved appearance of acne and surgical scars
- Improved tone and texture
What can I expect after the Fraxel Dual procedure?
After the Fraxel Dual procedure, patients can return home right away but may feel like their skin is sunburned for up to 24 hours. The skin may also appear pink or red during this time, which can be covered up with makeup if desired. Over the next week or two, the skin will then bronze and continue in this pattern as you undergo multiple treatment sessions. Patients will also experience flaking with the sunburn appearance as the old, damaged skin is exfoliated and new, fresh skin takes its place.
What are the side effects of Fraxel Dual treatment?
In addition to these common side effects, patients may also experience minor itching, dry skin, peeling and flaking. There is also a small risk of infection, hyperpigmentation or scarring. These risks can be greatly reduced by choosing an experienced doctor to perform your procedure.
When will Fraxel results be visible?
The results of the Fraxel laser treatment varies depending on the patient, treatment area, and laser settings. On average, pigmentation begins to fade within 3 days and full results are seen after 1 month. If treating fine lines or acne scarring, results begin to show around 1 month and continue to improve up to 3 months. Patients may also experience mild swelling and redness, although these side effects usually go away on their own in a short time. The results of the procedure will continue to improve as side effects subside. Patients can return to work very quickly after each of these sessions, usually within 24 hours.
How to protect your skin during healing after Fraxel Dual treatment
It is important for patients to take certain precautions after Fraxel treatment to protect the skin and help it heal properly. Patients should avoid direct sun exposure for at least three months after Fraxel treatment, and should apply sunscreen of at least 30 SPF, as the new skin is highly sensitive.
If you are seeking Fraxel Dual laser skin resurfacing in NYC, our staff at Sobel Skin Manhattan offers honest, human, forward-looking skin care to help you be your best, most refreshed self. Call 212.288.0060 fill out a form in the right-hand column of this page to book an initial treatment consultation with Dr. Howard Sobel.