First off, it’s important to know exactly what Fraxel is. According to Dr. MacGregor, “Fraxel is a brand name related to a specific company, Solta Medical. Fractional laser skin resurfacing encompassess multiple different laser wavelengths with multiple setting and treatment possiblities.” It works, according to Dr. MacGregor, because the lasers create microscopic zones of heated collagen in a grid pattern, which causes skin to re-build itself with no visible wound.
Kind of trippy, we know, but according to Dr. MacGregor, the results can truly be worth it. “After several treatments, uneven pigmentation improves, the skin looks brighter, collagen remodeling smooths fine lines, pores look tighter, and skin tone looks more even. Long term, sun-damaged skin can be improved dramatically with these lasers and several types of scars — even acne scars — can be treated.”
Sounds like a complexion miracle, no? Well, according to Dr. MacGregor, there are some major risk factors to keep in mind. First of all, in the first few days after treatment, you can expect redness, rough texture, and some peeling. It’s important to choose a dermatologist who is well-versed in lasers, as Dr. MacGregor warns that “lasers are not smart; they only operate according to the parameters set and skill of the physician using them.” Your recovery time can depend on the strength of the treatment that you choose. Says Dr. MacGregor, “I can have a patient back to work the next day looking great, but I can also deliver a treatment that takes a full seven to ten days of recovery at home.”
We bet we know what your next question is: how much does Fraxel cost? That depends on the device used and on how large the treatment area is, but you can expect to shell out anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Yes, it ain’t cheap, but if you’re willing to shell out, you may end up with skin that’s downright electrifying.
Photographed by Erin Yamagata
Click HERE to read more from Refinery29.
Leave a Reply