By Dr. Lydia Evans
“My friend just had Fraxel and her skin looks incredible.” Happily, this is a comment that I hear regularly in my office about one of my favorite treatments for skin rejuvenation. Fraxel re:store is a laser designed for resurfacing the skin. There are actually two different laser wavelengths that can be produced by this instrument. One treats at a deeper level in the skin to improve fine lines and wrinkles, while the second works at a more superficial level to help erase brown spots and discolorations. Both wavelengths can be used in a single treatment that is specifically tailored to the individual’s needs. Fraxel can also be utilized to diminish scars and reduce pre-cancerous lesions. In addition to treating the face, Fraxel can be very effectively used on the neck, chest, back, arms and hands.
Fraxel creates microscopic columns of laser light that penetrate deep into the skin. The laser treats only a portion of the tissue, which promotes quick healing. The body’s own healing process replaces damaged, discolored cells with healthy skin. Significant improvement can be seen after one treatment, although best results occur after two to five treatments, depending on the skin’s condition.
The procedure can sting a bit, so an anesthetic cream is applied in the office an hour before the procedure. Immediately after treatment, the area will be pink and a little puffy for two to three days. This is followed by a bronze coloration and a slightly rough texture, which lasts for several more days and gradually flakes off. The result is smoother, younger appearing skin with a more even texture, tone and color. Improvement will continue over several months as the skin continues to build new collagen.
I am very pleased with the results of Fraxel treatment for my patients and myself (yes, as always, I tried it on myself first!).
Along with practicing Dermatology in Chappaqua since 1993, Dr.Lydia Evans has been a consulting dermatologist for L’Oreal since 2000 and has been a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and New York State Chairperson of the Psoriasis Research Foundation.