Over time, the cumulative effects of lifestyle choices, sun damage, and aging can chip away at your self-esteem and quality of life. If you’ve started noticing various skin imperfections when you look in the mirror, you might be wondering about ideal ways to turn back the clock.
Fraxel®® is a state-of-the-art laser that can improve your appearance by minimizing discoloration and scarring, treating fine lines and wrinkles, reversing the effects of sun damage, and smoothing skin texture. Many people in the Bay Area count on it to rejuvenate their facial appearance, but it’s also an effective treatment for your neck, chest, and hands. Here are seven things you should know about Fraxel® laser skin rejuvenation.
1. It Provides Minimally Invasive Skin Resurfacing
Fraxel® skin resurfacing is an outpatient procedure that simultaneously resolves multiple skin concerns. It gently exfoliates the skin’s top layer, removing dull, dead cells and leaving you with a healthy, glowing complexion. If you prefer not to rely on surgery or injections to improve your skin’s tone and texture and reverse signs of aging, Fraxel® treatments are an ideal alternative.
2. It’s Safe and Effective
Because Fraxel® is one of the most advanced cosmetic lasers available today, it has received FDA approval for its proven track record of safety and minimal risk of side effects. As a fractional laser, Fraxel® treats damaged skin in small sections, leaving the surrounding skin untouched. The laser energy is gentle yet powerful enough to create micro-injuries that promote cell turnover and kickstart your skin’s natural healing response to provide a toned, tightened appearance.
3. Timing Is Crucial
Many people choose laser skin resurfacing to look their best in preparation for events like class reunions, work presentations, or vacations. Our board-certified dermatologists recommend scheduling your Fraxel® treatment at least three weeks ahead of these dates to give your skin ample time to start generating new elastin and collagen and resolve minor side effects such as swelling, redness, and flaking.
4. You Might Need Multiple Treatments for Optimal Results
Depending on the extent of the skin concerns you’re hoping to address with Fraxel®, you may wish to schedule a series of appointments to achieve your desired outcome. We will recommend a tailored treatment plan after meeting with you and learning more about your aesthetic goals.
5. Post-Procedure Care Is Essential
Taking excellent care of your skin after having Fraxel® skin resurfacing is vital if you want to prolong your renewed appearance. For example, laser treatments can make your skin much more sensitive to the sun, so you’ll need to be careful to minimize your exposure to UV rays and carefully apply a sunblock with an SPF of 30 or more to the treated areas before leaving home. Keep your skin moisturized, drink plenty of water, and wash your face every morning and evening with a gentle cleanser such as micellar water. Avoid using alcohol-based toners, which can be drying.
6. It’s a Customizable Treatment
Another benefit to Fraxel® skin rejuvenation is that we can fine-tune variables such as the laser’s strength and how far into your skin it penetrates based on your lifestyle, cosmetic goals, and the amount of downtime you are willing to undergo. Most people feel ready to go back to work and resume social activities within a day or two of getting Fraxel®. However, in some cases, you might need as many as five days to let your skin rest and recover.
7. Fraxel® Treatment Outcomes Are Long-Lasting
The Fraxel® laser provides both immediate and progressive results. Shortly after you get your treatment, your skin will feel softer and smoother, look brighter, and show a more even tone. The next three to six months will bring more improvement as your skin continues to create new collagen.
Is Fraxel® Right for You?
To explore more about Fraxel® treatment in San Francisco and learn whether you’re a good candidate, contact us at Dermatology Medical Group of San Francisco.
