What Is Fraxel® Restore?

Fraxel® Restore is a non-ablative fractional laser therapy offered at The Skin Institute at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute’s locations in the Greater Reno-Tahoe area, designed to refresh your skin and stimulate collagen production. It works at a cellular level to repair sun damage, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and even out pigmentation – all with minimal downtime.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Fraxel Restore is ideal for men and women in the Reno-Tahoe area seeking to reduce visible signs of aging or sun damage without surgery. It’s effective for most skin types and tones. Good candidates typically want improvement in skin texture, wrinkles, acne scars, or uneven pigmentation without a lengthy recovery.

How Does Fraxel Restore Work?

The Fraxel laser creates thousands of microscopic treatment zones in the skin, targeting deep layers while leaving surrounding tissue intact. This stimulates the body’s natural healing process, triggering collagen production and replacing damaged skin cells with fresh, healthy tissue.

What Areas Can Be Treated?

Fraxel Restore safely treats a variety of areas, including:

• Face
• Neck
• Chest (décolletage)
• Hands
• Shoulders
• Back and arms

Essentially, any area with skin discoloration, texture issues, or sun damage can benefit.

What Are the Benefits of Fraxel Restore?

• Softens fine lines and wrinkles
• Smooths uneven skin texture
• Reduces sun damage, pigmentation, and age spots
• Minimizes acne and surgical scars
• Promotes collagen renewal for natural, long-term results
• Improves overall skin glow and radiance

What to Expect During a Fraxel Restore Treatment

Before your session, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed, and a topical anesthetic will be applied to ensure comfort. You’ll wear protective eyewear, and the laser handpiece will glide across the treatment area. Most patients describe the sensation as a warm prickling feeling that is easily tolerated.

A typical treatment takes 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the area’s size and location.

What is the Downtime and Recovery?

Most people experience redness and mild swelling, similar to a sunburn, for 1to 3 days following treatment. Makeup can usually be applied after 24 hours, and you can return to work or normal activities within a couple of days. Your Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute Licensed Aesthetician will review aftercare instructions to support your healing.

Possible Side Effects

Temporary redness, swelling, or mild dryness can occur. Some patients may notice flaking as old skin cells shed. These effects usually fade within a few days. Following post-treatment care instructions helps minimize side effects and enhance results.

Results: Immediate and Ongoing

You’ll begin to notice smoother, fresher-looking skin within a week after your treatment. The real magic happens over time, as collagen continues to rebuild for up to 3 to 6 months. Many people enjoy long-lasting improvements with just a few sessions spaced several weeks apart.

Fraxel Restore FAQ

• Is Fraxel Restore painful?
  Most patients describe it as a mild heat or tingling sensation. A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand to keep you comfortable.
• How many sessions will I need?
  For best results, most people need 3 to 5 treatments, spaced about 4 weeks apart. Your Licensed Aesthetician will tailor your plan to your goals and skin condition.
• When will I see results?
  Initial improvement is visible within a week, with gradual brightening and smoothing over the next few months as new collagen develops.
• Can I wear makeup after the treatment?
  Yes, most patients can apply mineral makeup about 24 hours after treatment, once redness has begun to subside.
• How long do the results last?
  Results can last for months to years, depending on your skincare routine and sun protection habits. Maintenance treatments can help preserve your glow.
• Are there any restrictions after treatment?
  Avoid direct sun exposure, harsh scrubs, and active skincare ingredients (such as retinol) for several days. Gentle cleansing and hydration are key while your skin heals.
• Is Fraxel Restore safe for all skin tones?
  Yes, Fraxel Restore is designed to be safe and effective for most skin types and tones when performed by a trained professional.

Make an appointment to discuss laser treatments or other skincare procedures with a Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute Provider today in the Greater Reno-Tahoe area.