By Nichole Munk, License Aesthetician
In our quest for better, smoother, more radiant skin, laser skin resurfacing has been gaining popularity over the years, especially for its results. There are different options for skin resurfacing treatments that you can look into, as well as different types of lasers that are used. I know, once you start searching online, you can get lost in all the information. Let’s break it down a little bit by talking about the Fraxel® DUAL Laser, and what it can do for your skin.
About the Fraxel® DUAL Laser
Fraxel Dual is a non-ablative, fractional resurfacing technology with two different wavelengths (1550nm and 1927nm). As with other types of lasers, this laser targets water in the dermis (middle layer of your skin,) gently heating it to cause controlled thermal tissue damage. The laser creates microscopic columns of tissue injury across the treated area deep into your skin, stimulating collagen production so the skin can heal itself. Using two wavelengths allows the laser to treat both superficial depths of your skin while the other wavelength is used to go deeper into the skin. Because it is a fractional laser, it also treats a smaller area at a time, leaving the surrounding tissue untouched. This Fraxel DUAL treatment obtains results without the harsher treatment of an ablative laser, allowing for shorter downtime.
These particular types of treatments are called skin resurfacing or skin rejuvenation for obvious reasons. They stimulate the growth of new cells to help smooth the skin by stimulating its natural collagen production. Your skin not only gets new cells, but the collagen also plumps the skin.
What Does the Fraxel DUAL Laser Treat?
Now that we have given you some background into the Fraxel DUAL, I’m sure you are more interested in knowing what it can treat. This treatment helps improve skin tone, texture, and radiance. Here’s a list of what it can help with:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Brown spots
- Sun damage
- Age spots
- Surgical scars
- Acne scars
- It also has FDA clearance to treat melasma (a skin condition characterized by patchy brown skin discoloration) and actinic keratosis (rough, scaly patches of skin that develop from years of sun exposure.)
The benefits of the Fraxel DUAL laser treatment are that it leaves you with smoother, younger, more radiant skin with minimal downtime and less risk of side effects as compared to an ablative laser. You will typically see the benefits right after your treatment. The results will become more apparent as your skin continues to heal over the months.
Preparing for Your Laser Treatment
Your first step in preparation is to consult with an experienced Provider. During your consult, the Provider will review your medical history, including any medications you may be taking. You will discuss with them what you are looking to achieve with the treatment, and at that time, they will go over specifics with you, such as any recent sun exposure, what to expect from the treatment, recovery time, and so on. This is the time to bring up any questions and concerns you may have. You and your Provider will come up with a treatment program specific to you.
What to Expect on Treatment Day
Many of our patients say the pain is very minimal. You will be topically numbed before the procedure for your comfort. The Fraxel DUAL laser is tunable, so adjusting how we deliver the heat is customizable to each person. Plus, the laser has a cooling application that also helps with the discomfort. How long the treatment lasts depends on what you are getting treated for and the size of the treatment area.
After Your Treatment
Downtime for this type of treatment is minimal. Immediately after your treatment, your skin may feel as if you have a sunburn. It may feel extra dry and itchy, so use a mild cleanser and a heavy moisturizer to keep your skin happy. Your Provider can recommend products for your specific skin type if you need help with that. Of course, each patient is different in terms of how they heal, but we recommend giving yourself one whole week to recover.
Will I Need Multiple Treatments, and How Long do Results Last?
Since the Fraxel DUAL laser is a fractional laser, treating a smaller area of skin at a time, you may need more than one treatment. Everyone is different; however, I see the best results after three treatments. Each treatment is spread out 4-6 weeks from each other.
You will notice immediate results after your treatment, and your skin will continue to improve over six months. You can expect your results to last a year or more if you’re using good skincare products and wearing sunscreen daily.
You should consult with your Provider about any other procedures that can be done in conjunction with your laser treatment that would be helpful with any of your skin care goals.
Can Anyone Benefit from These Treatments
Absolutely! Fraxel Dual is one of the market’s most popular fractional resurfacing devices. It is clinically proven for efficacy and results, with over 50 published clinical studies. It’s truly one-of-a-kind!
Come talk to us about the Fraxel DUAL laser or any of the treatments we offer at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute. Book a consultation today at any of our locations.
About the Author:
Nichole Munk, Licensed Aesthetician – Nichole has been in the medical field for over fifteen years, starting out as a medical assistant. She realized she had a passion for cosmetic dermatology, wanting to help her patients with their cosmetic concerns. Nichole stays current with advances in cosmetic dermatology through continuing education, and she wants to always give her patients the best experiences and outcomes.