Fraxel Laser NYC

How it works and the types of Fraxel Lasers available

Fraxel is a laser treatment designed to target a wide range of skin concerns, including acne scars, sun damage, brown spots, fine lines, enlarged pores, age spots, surgical scars, and other issues related to skin texture and skin tone. The Fraxel laser is a non-ablative skin resurfacing treatment. It stimulates new collagen production in the dermal layers of skin while leaving the outermost layers intact and has minimal downtime. Many patients have enjoyed the cosmetic benefits of Fraxel for years; however, most elect to engage in an annual maintenance treatment session to keep up the best results. At her private dermatology office in NYC’s Upper East Side neighborhood, Dr. Green offers the Fraxel Dual laser, which operates on two distinct wavelengths to target a myriad of skin concerns and provide optimal rejuvenation results.

Dr. Green often refers to the Fraxel Dual as the ‘magic eraser,’ as it utilizes fractional laser technology to deliver ultra-precise treatment and can address a myriad of skin conditions. The 1550 nm wavelength is utilized to address issues related to skin texture, including fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and surgical scars—the 1927 nm wavelength is for issues related to skin tone, including sun damage, age spots, and hyperpigmentation. The controlled micro-injuries in the skin created by Fraxel induce the natural wound-healing process of the skin, resulting in the production of new collagen. The precision of the Fraxel laser allows for minimal downtime or discomfort and enhances the observed rejuvenation results. Fraxel can be used for rejuvenation of the face, neck, décolletage, back, hands, arms, and legs, depending on the needs and goals of the patient. The advantage of working with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, is that they have the expertise to craft your treatment plan best to meet your particular skin concerns and aesthetic goals.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing her patients from around the globe with the best non-invasive rejuvenation treatments available, including fractional laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Green uses cutting-edge laser technology and innovative treatment techniques, taking a holistic approach and embracing a less-is-more philosophy regarding cosmetic rejuvenation. She is consistently voted one of NYC’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, the New York Times, and New York Magazine for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that best suits your particular skin concerns and overall aesthetic goals for clear, smooth, radiant, healthy skin.

What is Fraxel laser treatment?

There are several types of fractional laser treatments on the market, but only one Fraxel laser exists. Many companies may refer to their laser devices as a “Fraxel” type laser. The original Fraxel, manufactured by Solta Medical, was the first fractional laser of its kind and has its unique technology. The technology behind Fraxel is revolutionary in that it can accurately treat thousands of microscopic areas of the skin with pinpoint laser precision. The controlled, targeted micro-injuries in the skin created by Fraxel induce the natural wound-healing process of the skin, resulting in the production of new collagen. The precision of the Fraxel laser allows for minimal downtime or discomfort and enhances the observed cosmetic results. One of the greatest benefits associated with Fraxel laser treatment is that it has both immediate and long-term results. Within days of treatment, the skin tone and texture will immediately improve. Over the next months following your treatment session with Fraxel, you will see increased improvement in your skin rejuvenation as new collagen is formed over time. Multiple treatments are often required to achieve optimal cosmetic results when treating acne scars or wrinkles.

What does Fraxel Laser do?

Fraxel laser is FDA-approved to treat the following skin conditions:

Acne Scars, especially atrophic scars, such as ice pick and boxcar scars.
Surgical scars, post-op scars, scars from injuries
Fine lines
Wrinkles
Enlarged pores
Sun spots, age spots, and freckles
Uneven pigmentation and discoloration
Sun damage
Skin tone and texture
Perioral lines, which are fine lines around the mouth
Periocular lines are fine lines around the eyes
Stretch marks
Actinic Keratosis
It is not, however, used for Melasma

What is Fraxel laser skin resurfacing?

In the past, laser skin resurfacing treatments primarily relied on ablative laser technology. Ablative laser treatments stimulate new collagen production by removing the outermost layers of skin and are associated with an extremely long recovery time and discomfort. Thanks to the innovative Fraxel laser treatment, patients can enjoy the skin-rejuvenating benefits of a laser skin resurfacing treatment without discomfort or extensive downtime. The Fraxel uses a non-ablative laser technology that employs microscopic columns that penetrate deep into the skin, only treating a fraction of the skin tissue at a time, which leaves the surrounding tissue unaffected. This fractional laser technology promotes a faster and more effective healing process. Fraxel laser was the first fractionated laser approved by the FDA for non-ablative laser skin resurfacing. The result of treatment with Fraxel laser is observable rejuvenation and the production of new skin with healthier skin cells. The Fraxel laser treatment will restore your skin’s natural beauty by improving the skin’s surface and stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin. This increased collagen stimulation results in younger-looking, more radiant skin.

js fraxel before after ANGLEL MGwatermark

35-44 year old female, Fraxel before and after (3 weeks)

What are the different types of Fraxel lasers?

Fraxel Repair

The Fraxel Repair laser is the most aggressive type of Fraxel laser, using ablative laser technology for skin rejuvenation and resurfacing. By delivering precise but intense wavelengths of laser energy, it can treat sun spots, uneven skin tone and texture, deep wrinkles, and scarring.

Fraxel Restore

Fraxel Restore is a non-ablative Erbium laser that emits wavelengths of light at 1550 nm. Columns of laser energy penetrate the inner layers of the skin to create micro-injuries and trigger collagen production. Fraxel Restore is best used to treat dark spots, fine lines, and moderate damage to the skin.

Fraxel Dual

The newest type of Fraxel laser available, the Fraxel Dual laser, essentially combines two lasers in one with two wavelengths of light: 1927 nm and 1550 nm. The Fraxel Dual laser is a non-ablative laser that provides patients with excellent results, which is why it is the Gold Standard for fractional laser resurfacing. With two wavelengths available, the Fraxel Dual can address a wide range of cosmetic concerns, including sun spots, age spots, wrinkles, fine lines, enlarged pores, acne scars, and stretch marks. At her private dermatology office in NYC’s Upper East Side neighborhood, Dr. Green offers the Fraxel Dual laser treatment.

What is the Fraxel Dual laser?

The Fraxel® Dual laser is equipped with two distinct settings, or wavelengths, which means there are actually two laser treatments in one. The 1927 nm wavelength is a state–of–the–art Thulium laser which is used to target hyperpigmentation, skin discoloration, age spots, and sun damage from the top layer of the skin quickly, evenly, and with almost no downtime. This specific wavelength of energy targets specific chromophores, or colored elements within skin cells, to create a controlled, local thermal reaction to diminish pigmented spots. The Fraxel Dual is equipped with a Zimmer, which allows cold air to be emitted simultaneously with the laser and is designed to minimize any discomfort.

The Fraxel® Dual laser’s erbium component utilizes the 1550 nm wavelength to improve skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars. The Erbium technology focuses the energy in the deeper areas of the skin, stimulating new collagen production. The new collagen produced ultimately improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture, acne scars, pore size, stretch marks, and surgical scars. At her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, Dr. Green offers the Fraxel Dual laser treatment to target a wide range of skin concerns and provide patients with optimal rejuvenation results that are natural-looking and long-lasting.

How Does Fraxel® Laser Work?

Fraxel Dual laser is a safe and effective treatment option for skin rejuvenation, providing patients with excellent results with minimal downtime. The Fraxel laser is a non-ablative laser, meaning that the treatment is able to trigger the body’s natural healing response and stimulate new collagen production without removing the outer layer of the skin. Instead, the Fraxel Dual laser treatment utilizes fractional laser energy delivered in microscopic columns of that precisely penetrate the inner layers of skin while leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected. As the wavelengths of laser energy penetrate the skin, they cause controlled micro-injury, which triggers the body’s natural healing response and boosts collagen and elastin production—increased collagen and elastin in the treated area help to create smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin. The fractionated energy is beneficial because the areas of the skin where the energy does not penetrate are unharmed, leading to faster recovery time than traditional ablative skin resurfacing lasers.

How is Fraxel Laser Treatment performed at Dr. Green’s dermatology office?

The first step is consulting with Dr. Green at her boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood. Dr. Green will collect a thorough medical history, review any cosmetic procedures you may have previously had, physically assess your skin condition, and discuss your skin concerns and personal aesthetic goals. Photographs will be taken of the treatment area to track your future progress and enhance the discussion of your treatment plan. Once it is determined that the Fraxel laser is the best course of treatment, the procedure may be performed on the same day or scheduled for a later date, depending on preference and time allowance.

On the day of the Fraxel laser treatment, a topical numbing cream should be applied to the entire treatment area and left in place for one hour. This step helps to eliminate any potential discomfort that could be experienced during the procedure. The Fraxel Dual 1550/1927 treatment session takes approximately 15 minutes to complete when performed on the face. Larger body areas, such as legs and arms, may take up to 30 minutes or longer to perform. Some patients report feeling a mild stinging or heat sensation during the laser treatment. Immediately after the procedure, your skin will feel warm as if it had a mild sunburn. Cold-water compresses will be applied to the treated area, which can be repeated at home if necessary. Afterward, patients can apply moisturizer but must practice strict sun avoidance.

Many patients choose to combine their Fraxel laser treatment with other skin rejuvenating procedures to achieve their ideal cosmetic results. The V-Beam laser can be performed simultaneously with the Fraxel laser for patients who struggle with facial redness or rosacea. V-Beam is a non-invasive laser treatment that operates on a wavelength that exclusively targets the red pigment in the skin. V-Beam efficiently reduces the appearance of pigmented acne scars, broken capillaries, stretch marks, rosacea, and other forms of facial redness. In addition, cosmetic injectables such as Botox and Juvederm can easily be combined with the Fraxel Laser treatment to achieve your best cosmetic results.

Depending on your needs, whether it be overall sun damage, acne scars, or wrinkles, Dr. Green can customize a treatment protocol just for you. We can use either the 100% Thulium laser to treat brown pigmentation or the 100% Erbium to treat primarily fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and textures. Dr. Green often uses a combined treatment with both Thulium and Erbium for more comprehensive results. The beauty of the Fraxel® Dual is that it can be tailor-made for each treatment and your unique needs.

Fraxel® delivers amazing results with almost no downtime. Depending on the degree of pigmentation and the number of age spots, an area can be treated with as little as two or three treatment sessions. The result is beautiful, luminous skin that lasts. Treating fine lines, scars, and wrinkles generally requires four to five treatment sessions, with each spaced approximately one month apart. The results are an overall improvement in skin tone, texture, fine lines, and a healthier and younger-looking appearance.

How to care for skin after Fraxel laser treatment

After the Fraxel treatment, patients should use a mild cleanser and a gentle moisturizer, such as MGSKINLABS Gentle Cleanser and Absolute Recovery Anti-Wrinkle Cream. All skincare products should be non-irritating and non-comedogenic for the first week after the Fraxel treatment. Brands like Cetaphil, CeraVe, and Aveeno offer gentle over-the-counter products catered to sensitive skin. Avoid picking and scratching at the skin while the treated skin is flaking off. Avoid products that can potentially irritate the skin, like retinol, Retin-A, hydroquinone, AHAs, BHAs, and exfoliating scrubs. You can resume your normal skincare regimen when the treated area is fully healed. Keeping the treated area clean while your skin is healing is essential, so avoid smoking, excessive sweating, and swimming.

Protecting your skin from the sun after Fraxel laser treatment is important to prevent sun damage or unwanted side effects, such as worsening hyperpigmentation, burning, or scarring. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every 90 minutes. Avoid direct sun exposure for at least three months after the laser treatment, and wear sun-protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat if you are in the sun.

What are the side effects of Fraxel laser fractional resurfacing?

As a non-ablative laser, Fraxel is associated with much fewer side effects and risks than ablative laser treatments. The most common side effects of Fraxel include a mild amount of swelling, redness, and tenderness in the treated area, which tend to resolve within several days of the treatment. If there is a history of acne breakouts, Dr. Green may prescribe an oral antibiotic to be used immediately after your laser treatment. If there is a history of herpes simplex (cold sores), you may be advised to take Valtrex on the day of the procedure to prevent an outbreak.

It is imperative to research the provider performing your laser resurfacing treatment before undergoing a procedure to get the best cosmetic results. Having laser treatment with an inexperienced or unqualified provider can result in poor cosmetic results and undesired side effects, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, burning, and scarring. When you have your Fraxel laser treatment with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in NYC, the risk of experiencing unwanted side effects or poor results is extremely low. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned expert in the field of dermatology with over 25 years of experience providing patients with optimal facial rejuvenation results. She will help you determine which unique combination of non-invasive treatments will best suit your situation.

It is very important to use proper sun protection after your Fraxel laser treatment. Dr. Green recommends using sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher, which should be repeated when outside throughout the day. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer, such as MGSKINLABS, Inc Recovery Cream, after the Fraxel treatment several times a day, and avoid the sun to prevent any skin damage from occurring. Although Fraxel is approved for the treatment of melasma, Dr. Green does not recommend the Fraxel laser for patients suffering from melasma. Patients of lighter skin types, skin types I to III, can be safely treated with the Fraxel laser. Patients with darker skin types, greater than type III, should avoid being treated with the Fraxel laser.

28 year old female, Fraxel & 1 syringe of Juvederm on lips – 4 weeks

Fraxel Laser FAQs

Am I a candidate for Fraxel laser treatment?

The best candidates for Fraxel® laser resurfacing are individuals who are in good general health, mentally and physically and desire to address specific skin concerns such as fine lines and wrinkles, freckles, age spots, stretch marks, pore size, or acne scarring. It is always recommended that patients who are struggling with active moderate to severe acne breakouts first treat the acne. Once the breakouts are under control, other skin conditions may be effectively addressed with Fraxel laser treatment.

To be safely and effectively treated with Fraxel, patients should fall somewhere between the Fitzpatrick skin type I and III skin tones. Patients with darker skin tones are at higher risk for developing unwanted side effects or undesirable cosmetic results if treated with the Fraxel laser treatment due to the interaction between the laser and the skin pigment. Potential side effects can include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, burning, and even scarring. In order to guarantee safety, efficacy, and optimal results, it is important to have skin rejuvenation treatments with an experienced, board-certified professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC.

Dr. Green is an internationally renowned board-certified expert in cosmetic dermatology with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive treatment options available. Dr. Green offers several excellent alternatives to Fraxel that are safe and effective for patients with darker skin tones, such as the Clear + Brilliant laser treatment, chemical peels, the eMatrix sublative rejuvenation laser treatment, and microneedling. When you consult with Dr. Green at her boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, you will have the opportunity to identify your primary skin concerns and aesthetic goals. She will collect a thorough medical and family history, physically assess the treatment area, and recommend the treatment options best suited to you depending on your needs, skin type, and skin tone so that you look and feel like the best version of yourself.

Should the Fraxel laser treat melasma?

No! Patients with melasma should do their best to avoid having any laser skin resurfacing treatment, including the Fraxel laser. The reason is that laser treatment can actually worsen the appearance of hyperpigmentation associated with melasma. Melasma can still be treated if a patient has been treated with a laser, though it is often much more challenging to diminish. Treating melasma through topical treatments such as chemical peels or Cosmelan is best. If melasma is a skin concern that you would like to address, or if you are unsure whether the hyperpigmentation that you are experiencing is, in fact, melasma, consult with Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience treating patients around the globe for many skin conditions, including melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation. It is also important to maintain realistic expectations about the cosmetic results of any laser, including Fraxel.

How many Fraxel treatments are needed?

Some patients may achieve excellent rejuvenation results with only a single treatment session. However, if you suffer from a great deal of sun damage or more severe signs of aging, it generally takes at least three Fraxel laser treatment sessions, each spaced approximately one month apart, to achieve the best results. Since each Fraxel laser session targets approximately 25 to 40 percent of the treated area at a time, it makes sense that you will need multiple treatment sessions to have the best rejuvenation results. Depending on the severity of the skin condition, patients with fine lines, wrinkles, or acne scars generally recommend an average of five treatments scheduled at least one month apart. While there is an immediate improvement in the first weeks after the laser treatment, new collagen is formed for months after each Fraxel laser treatment for continued rejuvenation. When you have Fraxel laser treatment with Dr. Green, photos will be taken of the treated area before each treatment session to track progress, and she will assess your skin condition to determine approximately how many treatment sessions may be needed for the best cosmetic results.

1 treatment of Fraxel – 2 weeks later

Does Fraxel tighten the skin?

Fraxel is an excellent laser treatment for improving skin tone, texture, reducing fine lines and wrinkles around the face, especially those around the eyes and mouth. It also improves the appearance of acne scars and surgical scars. Fraxel laser treats sun damage and sun spots. Fraxel does produce some skin tightening when new collagen is formed, using the 1550 setting. However, a proper skin-tightening laser, such as Thermage, can provide much greater skin-tightening results. Thermage is the gold standard in terms of non-invasive skin-tightening. It utilizes radiofrequency technology to deliver heat to the dermal layers of skin, where it stimulates new collagen production to tighten the skin in the treated area and provide a more youthful appearance. The skin rejuvenation benefits of Thermage are gradual, initially becoming visible about six weeks after the treatment and continuing to take effect for up to six months. Patients appreciate the fact that they can achieve incredibly long-kasting results, with the effects remaining for up to two years. Most patients, however, elect to engage in an annual maintenance treatment session of Thermage to keep up to the best results. Many patients combine Thermage and Fraxel treatments into their treatment plans to target a variety of skin concerns and achieve pan-facial rejuvenation with minimal downtime.

What should I expect during Fraxel laser treatment?

One hour before your Fraxel laser treatment, a topical numbing cream should be applied to the skin to help eliminate any potential discomfort that may be experienced during the procedure. After the numbing cream has been on the treatment area for about one hour, it will be removed, and your skin will be sterilized. For the duration of the treatment session, you’ll wear protective goggles for your eyes. The fractional laser energy is delivered to the treated area in passes, which are repeated until the appropriate level of correction is achieved. You may feel a little stinging or heat sensation in the treated area during the procedure. The length of time required for your treatment session will vary depending on how large the treatment area is, how many areas are being treated, and the level of correction needed. Once the laser treatment is complete, a cool compress will be applied to the treated area to mitigate any heat sensation. Then, a soothing moisturizer will be applied. The following section describes what one can expect following a Fraxel laser treatment session.

What should I expect after Fraxel laser treatment?

One of the biggest benefits of Fraxel laser is that there is minimal downtime and few potential side effects. Dr. Green offers the Fraxel Dual laser at her private dermatology office in NYC, which operates on two distinct wavelengths to target a wide range of skin concerns. If you have the Fraxel laser for acne scars alone, the 1550 nm setting is used, and you will only have some redness and swelling for 48 hours. Proper skin care, including moisturizer and sunscreen, is essential post-treatment. When Fraxel laser treatment is designed for hyperpigmentation and sun spots, the 1927 nm wavelength is utilized, and there are about 5 to 7 days of peeling. In the first two days, there is some redness, like sunburn, and by days 3 to 7, the skin peels off like rough sandpaper. It is important to use lotion and avoid sun exposure to your new skin.

To avoid skin damage, it is essential to avoid the use of hydroquinone, retinoids, or exfoliating products during this post-treatment period. The best skin care products to use now are gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. If you have acne breakouts, you should contact Dr. Green, who may prescribe an oral antibiotic for you. After the Fraxel laser, you can still do all the normal things you did before the laser. Only on the day of the procedure will you have some immediate discomfort after the numbing cream wears off, which dissipates after a few hours. Dr. Green will provide you with all of the pertinent aftercare information required to achieve and maintain optimal cosmetic rejuvenation results.

How soon can I see the results from Fraxel?

Immediately after a Fraxel laser treatment session, the treated area might be affected by common side effects such as redness and swelling. Over the next few days, this will fade to reveal smoother, more youthful-looking skin with fewer age spots, freckles, and acne scars. Most patients observe the final rejuvenation results from a single treatment session four to six weeks afterward. To obtain the best results, most patients typically require three to six treatment sessions, and these should be spaced anywhere from four to six weeks apart.

How long do Fraxel results last?

After a short series of initial treatment sessions, Fraxel produces incredibly long-lasting rejuvenation results. Many patients enjoy the cosmetic benefits of Fraxel for years and can extend the longevity of their results by limiting sun exposure in the treated area and using proper sun protection. Dr. Green recommends layering two different types of sunscreens- first a chemical and then a mineral sunscreen, to ensure maximum coverage. Sunscreen should be labeled as broad spectrum, which indicates that it protects against UVA and UVB rays, and it should have a minimum SPF of 30. It is also recommended to wear sun-protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. This will help prevent future sun damage from developing in the treated area. Even so, most patients elect to engage in an annual maintenance treatment session to consistently stimulate new collagen production and keep up the best rejuvenation results.

Is Fraxel permanent?

Fraxel provides long-lasting skin rejuvenation and targets a host of different skin concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, sun spots, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, large pores, and more. Patients can enjoy the cosmetic benefits of a series of Fraxel treatment sessions for many years; however, Fraxel laser treatment can not prevent new signs of aging from developing. As collagen continues to break down over time due to the natural aging process, new signs of aging can develop in areas that have already been treated with Fraxel. Luckily, engaging with regular maintenance treatment sessions of Fraxel laser can help prevent and treat newer signs of aging. For optimal results, Dr. Green recommends having at least one annual maintenance treatment session. Keeping up with your Fraxel treatments on a yearly basis will keep your skin looking healthy, radiant, and more youthful for longer.

In addition to scheduling maintenance laser treatment sessions of Fraxel, it is important to limit sun exposure and utilize proper sun protection. Sun damage can significantly accelerate collagen breakdown, leading to many premature signs of aging. Dr. Green advises layering a mineral sunscreen over a chemical sunscreen to ensure maximum coverage. Sunscreen should also be broad-spectrum, indicating that it protects against UVA and UVB rays, and it should have a minimum SPF of 30. When you have Fraxel laser treatment with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will provide you with all of the pertinent aftercare information required to ensure you get the longest, long-lasting results and help you set up a timeline for your maintenance treatment sessions for optimal skin rejuvenation.

What are Fraxel treatments good for?

Fraxel is a fantastic skin resurfacing laser treatment designed to address various issues related to skin texture, dullness, sun damage (sun spots), age spots, brown spots, fine lines and wrinkles, and surgical scars. This revolutionary laser treatment will also diminish the appearance of crow’s feet and brown spots, improve stubborn acne scars, and create a rejuvenated, healthy-looking complexion that lasts. Another bonus is that the Fraxel laser can be used on various areas of the body. Popular treatment areas include the face, neck, chest, hands, and arms. Fraxel treatment is also well known to effectively treat atrophic acne scars, as the laser treatment will stimulate new collagen production.

Can Fraxel laser treat my acne scars?

Yes! Fraxel laser is amazing at treating many different types of acne scars. It best treats atrophic acne scars, such as rolling and boxcar scars. It is not as successful at treating hypertrophic scars. Fraxel is also a safer treatment option for patients with lighter skin tones versus patients with darker skin tones. The reason for this is that laser technology can negatively interact with the pigment in the skin of patients with darker skin tones, potentially causing hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, burning, and scarring. Patients with acne scars often have low self-esteem due to these scars, and Fraxel can help treat these scars and improve their appearance.

Does Fraxel help with acne?

Fraxel is great for treating acne scars, whether they are atrophic or related to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, but it is not recommended for treating active acne breakouts. It is an excellent option for treating acne scars after the acne is under control. In addition to active acne, patients should not be treated with Fraxel if there is an open wound or other form of skin irritation in the treatment area. If you are interested in Fraxel for acne scars, Dr. Green will work with you to manage your active breakouts to ensure that you get the best results from laser treatment. One of the advantages of treating acne breakouts first is to ensure that no new acne scars are formed after Fraxel laser treatment begins.

Dermatologist treatments are available to eliminate all types of acne, whether they are comedones (whiteheads and blackheads), papules, pustules, cysts, or nodules. Prescription acne treatments include oral antibiotics (doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline), topical antibiotics (erythromycin, clindamycin), spironolactone, and Accutane. In-office acne treatments include HydraFacials, acne surgery, VBeam, and photodynamic therapy. Additionally, various skincare products on the market are specifically formulated to treat acne. Common acne-fighting ingredients include salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. If you want to get your acne under control finally, consult with Dr. Michele Green. During your consultation, Dr. Green will collect a thorough medical and family history, physically assess your skin condition, and potentially order certain lab tests to understand the factors contributing to your breakouts and develop a personalized treatment plan to address them best.

Does Fraxel hurt?

Fraxel laser treatment is a safe and effective option with almost no discomfort and little downtime. Dr. Green prescribes a topical numbing cream to her patients, which should be applied to the treatment area one hour before their Fraxel treatment to minimize any discomfort. Once you arrive at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in NYC’s Upper East Side neighborhood, the numbing cream will be removed and the skin sterilized in preparation for your laser treatment. During the procedure, most patients report feeling some minor stinging or heat sensation, with no pain. Immediately after the laser treatment, a cool compress is applied to the treated area to mitigate any residual heat sensation. Then, a soothing moisturizer is applied to the treated area. Sometimes, the treated area can be affected by a heat sensation that lingers, usually accompanied by other common side effects such as redness and mild swelling. These side effects resolve shortly after the treatment. Dr. Green will provide you with all of the pertinent aftercare information required for achieving and maintaining optimal rejuvenation results and dealing with any potential side effects.

Are there different types of Fraxel lasers?

There are three types of Fraxel laser treatments currently available. The most popular type of Fraxel, which is typically found in a dermatologist’s office, like Dr. Green, is the Fraxel Dual laser. Fraxel Dual is the newest version of Fraxel lasers that combines the benefits of both of its predecessors, Fraxel Repair and Fraxel Restore. Fraxel Dual produces comparable results of ablative lasers with the gentler benefits of non-ablative lasers. Fraxel Dual is a nonablative laser that utilizes two different wavelengths: 1550 nm and 1927 nm. The 1550 nm wavelength Erbium effectively treats acne scars, surgical scars, fine lines, pore size, and uneven skin texture. The Thulium 1927 nm works superficially, precisely targeting pigmented spots without affecting the surrounding skin. Due to its dual-wavelength and fractionated laser technology, it can treat the skin non-ablatively with little downtime.

The Fraxel Re: pair is an ablative laser that uses fractional CO2 to rejuvenate the skin. Fraxel Repair delivers an intense wavelength of light, breaking up small columns in the outer layer of the skin to stimulate new collagen and elastin production. Fraxel Repair can be used to treat sunspots, uneven skin tone and texture, deep wrinkles, and scarring to produce a rejuvenating effect. Because Fraxel Repair is an ablative laser, significant downtime is associated with the treatment, usually lasting about one week. This more aggressive laser is suitable for skin with severe damage.

The Fraxel Re: store is a nonablative laser that uses the” Erbium 1550 nm wavelength energy to heat the skin and stimulate collagen synthesis. It is a gentler alternative to Fraxel Re: pair, so it is effective in treating moderate damage to the skin, such as fine lines, pigmentation, and uneven texture. There is little downtime associated with Fraxel Restore, usually lasting 1-2 days.

74 year old with AlexTrivantage & Fraxel

Is Fraxel worth it?

Yes! Due to the minimal downtime, few potential side effects, ease of having the laser treatment, and consistently stunning rejuvenation results, patients agree that Fraxel with Dr. Green is absolutely worth it! Dr. Green treats some of the world’s most discerning individuals, including many celebrities and actors who have had Fraxel laser treatments to rejuvenate their skin to prepare for high-definition cameras. Fraxel effectively targets a wide range of skin concerns, including sun damage, acne scars, fine lines, and sunspots, among others. Commitment to a short series of treatment sessions, each spaced approximately four weeks apart, yields outstanding rejuvenation results. Fraxel replaces aging, damaged skin with new, healthy skin cells for a more youthful, radiant complexion that lasts. When you consult with Dr. Green at her boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to develop a treatment plan that suits you best.

Who should perform Fraxel laser skin resurfacing?

It is always recommended to consult a board-certified dermatologist with the experience and skills to safely and optimally perform Fraxel laser treatment. A board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon will have advanced training in laser treatments and skincare that spa technicians do not. Be sure to research your treating physician to ensure they are certified in Fraxel and have years of experience treating cosmetic patients with lasers. Dangerous and unwanted side effects can occur when the wrong laser treatments or settings are used for a patient, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, burning, and scarring.

How much is Fraxel laser treatment?

Many patients wonder, “How much does Fraxel laser treatment cost?” and the answer is that the cost depends on a variety of factors. Fraxel laser costs vary based on the area of the body treated, how many areas are being treated in a single session, and how many treatment sessions are required to achieve the desired results. Generally, prices also depend on the geographic area of the office or clinic. The price for Fraxel laser treatment varies depending on whether you have an expert in Fraxel performing your laser treatment or if you have a MedSpa or clinic technician treat you. With an experienced medical professional, Fraxel laser is approximately $1500 per session for a given area of the body. Generally, an experienced board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon will be more expensive than a provider who is not trained to perform this laser- however, it is important to ensure that your provider has the expertise and training required to safely perform your laser treatment. The risk of encountering dangerous and unwanted side effects, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, burning, and scarring, is significantly higher when you have laser treatment with an inexperienced or unqualified provider.

Additional Fraxel & Laser Resurfacing FAQs

What is laser skin resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is the process of using concentrated light energy to remove damaged cells from the outer layers of the skin. Ablative laser resurfacing provides a deeper level of correction, removing the epidermis (outermost layer of the skin) and tightening the dermis (sub-layer of the skin). Recovery time often takes several weeks or more. Non-ablative laser skin resurfacing removes sun-damaged skin cells but uses a shallower epidermis penetration. Because the intensity is less than that of an ablative laser, several sessions are typically required for the best results. There is minimal downtime and recovery following non-ablative laser resurfacing. Fraxel® has both ablative and non-ablative capabilities, both of which can improve skin tone and texture. With fractional laser skin resurfacing, freckles, age spots, or other pigmentation irregularities can be effectively minimized. Fine lines and wrinkles will become less noticeable, and acne scars can be diminished.

How does laser skin resurfacing work?

Laser skin resurfacing treatments use laser energy microbeams to create controlled damage in the treated areas. This process simultaneously removes thin layers of damaged skin while promoting the body’s natural healing processes to create new, healthy skin cells. The final result is skin that looks and feels smoother, more evenly pigmented, and younger. Because sun-damaged and pre-cancerous skin cells are removed during laser resurfacing, your skin’s health can actually improve as well.

What is the difference between Fraxel laser treatment and other skin resurfacing lasers?

The Fraxel laser uses nonablative, fractional laser technology for skin rejuvenation. In the past, the primary type of laser utilized for skin resurfacing was ablative. Ablative laser treatments essentially create an open wound by removing the outermost layers of the skin (epidermis) and heating the underlying skin (dermis). This ablation creates a controlled thermal injury to the skin. As the top layer of skin regrows, new collagen fibers are generated, and the treated skin becomes smoother. However, due to the thermal injury created with ablative lasers like carbon dioxide, or CO2 lasers, there is significant downtime as the skin takes time to heal. Nonablative lasers, like Fraxel laser, can stimulate new collagen and improve skin tone and texture with minimal recovery time because of the revolutionary fractionated laser technology. Non-ablative lasers stimulate new collagen production in the dermis while the epidermis remains intact, allowing for minimal downtime and optimal rejuvenation results.

What makes Fraxel® different?

Fraxel® is a nonablative laser that utilizes fractional laser technology to treat highly targeted areas while leaving surrounding skin untouched, promoting faster healing and less downtime. This approach to laser skin resurfacing gives Dr. Green greater precision while minimizing the risk of complications and unwanted side effects. The minimal downtime associated with Fraxel is also convenient for patients with busy lives who cannot set aside many days to heal. At her private dermatology office in New York City, Dr. Green offers the Fraxel Dual laser treatment, which operates on two distinct wavelengths to effectively address a wide range of skin concerns.

What is the difference between CO2 laser and Fraxel?

The CO2 laser and Fraxel laser are two different types of skin-resurfacing treatments that can address a variety of skin concerns, including hyperpigmentation, acne scars, sun damage, fine lines, surgical scars, and enlarged pores, among others. The Fractional CO2 laser uses ablative laser technology and removes the outermost layer of the skin. The Fraxel laser uses non-ablative laser technology and stimulates new collagen production in the dermal layers of the skin. Both laser treatments can be used to target various skin concerns, including sun damage, acne scars, stretch marks, and fine lines, among others. As an ablative laser treatment, the CO2 laser is associated with longer downtime and more discomfort than the non-ablative Fraxel laser treatment.

Which is better, Fraxel or CO2 laser?

Fraxel and CO2 lasers are different skin resurfacing treatment options that can address various signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, and sun spots or age spots. The biggest difference between the Fraxel and CO2 lasers is that the Fraxel is non-ablative, and the CO2 is ablative. All skin resurfacing lasers fall into one of two categories: ablative or non-ablative. To stimulate new collagen production, ablative lasers remove the outermost layers of skin, while non-ablative lasers treat the dermal layer while leaving the epidermis intact.

CO2 lasers emit energy with a 10,600 nm wavelength that is absorbed by the water in the skin cells, leading to the removal of the superficial layer of the skin. This controlled heat injury to the skin stimulates collagen synthesis in the deeper layer of the skin, resulting in smoother, tighter, and more elastic skin. Since ablative lasers remove the epidermal layers of skin, CO2 lasers are more aggressive than nonablative lasers like Fraxel and tend to require a lengthier downtime. The CO2 laser is also associated with an increased risk of encountering adverse side effects, like hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation.

As a non-ablative laser, the Fraxel utilizes many microbeams that create columns of ablation in the skin without damaging the surrounding skin. Because it is more targeted, this significantly reduces the amount of downtime required and minimizes the risk of encountering unwanted side effects. The Fraxel laser that Dr. Green offers at her private dermatology in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, the Fraxel Dual, operates on two distinct wavelengths to target a myriad of skin concerns. The 1550 nm Erbium is utilized to address issues related to skin texture, including fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and surgical scars—the Thulium 1927 nm for issues related to skin tone, including sun damage, age spots, and hyperpigmentation. When you have Fraxel laser treatment with Dr. Green, she will collect a thorough medical and family history, physically assess the treatment area, and select the treatment type that’s most appropriate for your skin concerns, aesthetic goals, skin tone, and skin type to ensure that you get optimal rejuvenation results.

Neither the Fraxel nor the CO2 laser should be used on patients with darker skin tones, including Asian and olive skin. Using these laser treatments on patients with darker skin tones can lead to unwanted side effects and poor cosmetic results, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, burning, and scarring. Whether Fraxel or CO2 is recommended is up to your aesthetic goals, downtime availability, and physician discretion. Consult with expert, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green to learn more about the different skin resurfacing lasers and which is right for you.

Is Moxi a Fraxel laser?

Moxi and Fraxel are both fractional laser treatment options; however, Moxi is not a Fraxel laser. Fraxel is a specific brand of fractional laser created and sold by Solta Medical. Moxi, on the other hand, is created by Sciton and is advertised as an effective treatment option for mild hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and uneven skin tone and texture.

Is Halo a Fraxel laser?

Halo is a hybrid fractional laser that combines ablative and non-ablative laser technology. Fraxel relies exclusively on non-ablative fractional laser technology to stimulate new collagen production in the dermal layers of skin in the treatment area. Both laser treatments offer a host of skin rejuvenation benefits and can address concerns such as fine lines, pigmentation, acne scars, sun damage, and more.

Is Halo better than Fraxel?

The best way to determine which laser treatment is most appropriate for your skin type, aesthetic goals, skin concerns, and skin tone is by consulting an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, in New York City. A professional in cosmetic dermatology like Dr. Green has the expertise required to recommend the various treatment options, including laser treatments such as Halo and Fraxel, that will provide you with optimal rejuvenation results with minimal downtime and leave you looking and feeling like the best version of yourself. Dr. Green has over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive rejuvenation treatments, including Fraxel. She is consistently identified as one of NYC’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and the New York Times for her dedication to her patients and expertise. That said, Fraxel is considered one of the best fractional laser treatment options available. Dr. Green will always turn to the Fraxel Dual laser treatment over others like Halo or Moxi.

Can I combine Fraxel® with other facial rejuvenation procedures?

Yes! Most patients see a significant improvement in their skin texture and tone after just one Fraxel laser treatment session. However, most patients incorporate Fraxel and a variety of other cosmetic procedures into their personalized treatment plans in order to address a multitude of skin concerns and achieve pan-facial rejuvenation. For example, suppose a patient is interested in treating sun damage, dynamic fine lines, and collagen loss. In that case, their treatment plan might entail that Fraxel laser skin resurfacing is performed first, followed by a combination of Botox® to control dynamic fine lines and dermal fillers like Restylane® and Juvederm® to diminish the appearance of deeper wrinkles and replenish age-related volume loss. The advantage of working with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, is that they have the expertise to craft your treatment plan best to meet your particular skin concerns and aesthetic goals.

When patients are also interested in eliminating facial redness, VBeam laser treatment is often performed in the same treatment session as Fraxel. The VBeam laser operates on a specific wavelength, 595 nm, that targets the red pigment in the skin. VBeam is an effective treatment option for rosacea, broken blood vessels, stretch marks, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, surgical scars, and other skin conditions associated with visible redness. Most patients require a short series of VBeam laser treatments to attain optimal rejuvenation results. Patients appreciate the fact that there is zero downtime involved with the VBeam, meaning they can immediately resume their usual daily activities following each treatment session or safely have the Fraxel laser treatment right afterward. Dr. Green will work with you to establish a timeline for your VBeam and Fraxel laser treatments that suit your needs.

Thermage radiofrequency laser treatment is one of the most common procedures to be combined with Fraxel skin resurfacing treatment. Thermage is considered the gold standard for non-invasive skin tightening. To tighten skin, it relies on radiofrequency energy to deliver heat to the dermal layers of the skin, where it triggers new collagen production and causes existing collagen to contract. In the months following Thermage treatment, the skin texture in the treated area becomes firmer, smoother, and tighter as new collagen forms. One of the greatest advantages of Thermage is that there is zero downtime involved and few if any, side effects. The most common side effect of Thermage is mild redness in the treated area, which tends to resolve within half an hour of the treatment session, meaning patients can resume their normal daily activities immediately afterward. As another bonus, patients can often enjoy the long-lasting effects of Thermage for up to two years, although most patients opt to have an annual maintenance treatment session to keep up the best results. The skin-tightening effects of Thermage combined with the revitalizing effects of Fraxel result in optimal rejuvenation.

Is Fraxel laser ablative or CO2?

Fraxel is a non-ablative laser treatment, meaning it is neither an ablative laser treatment nor is it a CO2 laser. All laser treatments fall into one of two categories: ablative or non-ablative. Ablative lasers remove the entire surface layer of the skin, vaporizing the epidermal layer of the skin to trigger collagen production. Ablative lasers can provide dramatic results but are associated with more significant downtime and a higher risk of side effects. CO2 lasers use ablative laser technology to remove the outermost layers of skin, inducing new collagen production with a controlled injury in the treated area. Fractional CO2 lasers are still ablative but are more precise, creating targeted damage to the treatment area while leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. Non-ablative lasers like Fraxel stimulate new collagen production in the dermal layers of skin, leaving the outermost layer intact. This feature allows Fraxel to provide optimal rejuvenation results with minimal downtime, which most patients prefer.

When to exfoliate after Fraxel

To obtain the best cosmetic results, it is important to practice the right skincare following your Fraxel laser treatment. Since Fraxel is a non-ablative laser, minimal downtime is involved. During the few days of downtime associated with the Fraxel, one of the common side effects that patients encounter is skin flaking. To guarantee the best cosmetic results, allowing the skin to heal independently rather than attempting to exfoliate away the flakes is essential. Patients can safely resume exfoliating one week after a Fraxel laser treatment session. Only a gentle facial cleanser and moisturizer should be used on the treated area for the first several days following your Fraxel laser treatment. Additionally, it is important to avoid sun exposure in the treated area for several weeks following Fraxel. This is due to the fact that Fraxel increases the photosensitivity of skin, making it more susceptible to sun damage. Sun exposure in the treated area could result in side effects such as hyperpigmentation or burning. When you have your Fraxel laser skin resurfacing treatment with Dr. Green at her boutique dermatology office in NYC, she will provide you with all the pertinent aftercare information required for achieving and maintaining the best rejuvenation results.

How do I get started with Fraxel laser treatments today?

Fraxel is a non-ablative skin resurfacing laser treatment for rejuvenation that can be completed in just minutes and has minimal downtime. Whether you’re interested in addressing acne scars, sun damage, or various signs of aging, Fraxel is an excellent treatment option. At her private dermatology office in NYC’s Upper East Side neighborhood, Dr. Green offers the Fraxel Dual laser, which operates on two distinct wavelengths to target a myriad of skin concerns.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive treatment options for rejuvenation, including Fraxel laser treatment. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding facial rejuvenation, customizing each patient’s treatment plan to include a combination of in-office cosmetic procedures and specially formulated skincare products that are best suited to their particular skin concerns and aesthetic goals. She is consistently identified as one of New York City’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and the New York Times for her dedication to her patients and expertise. To learn more about the rejuvenation benefits of Fraxel and develop your personalized treatment plan to look and feel like the best version of yourself, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green today by contacting us online or calling 212-535-3088.