Essential aftercare tips include avoiding sun exposure, moisturizing the skin, staying hydrated, and using gentle skincare products. Long-term care, including consistent sunscreen use and a good skincare routine, is necessary to maintain results.
Keeping a light moisturizer on your skin throughout the first week after your Fraxel laser treatment is an important aspect of hydrating and rejuvenating your skin, but you should avoid heavy moisturizers, makeup, and any type of exfoliant to avoid slowing the healing process.
Results from Fraxel treatments are gradual but noticeable. Many patients see improvement within weeks after their first session. Full results usually appear after several months as collagen continues to develop. Multiple sessions may be necessary for optimal results.
The journey of collagen rebuilding after laser skin resurfacing is a gradual but transformative process. Patients can witness immediate improvements in the weeks following the procedure, with continued enhancement over the next several months.
During the first 24 – 48 hours, apply cold compress for 15 minutes every 2 hours if the skin is red and swollen. Do not ice the skin directly. Apply a thin film of petroleum gel (or moisturizer) on the skin until it recovers fully.
Apply a cool compress or a wrapped ice pack for 15 minutes every one to two hours as needed, during the first 24 to 48 hours. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly (or any occlusive moisturizer) or antibiotic ointment (such as bacitracin) to the area twice a day until the skin heals.
Searching for over-the-counter products meant for dry, sensitive skin will be a good place to start finding the right moisturizer for you. Drugstore brands such as CeraVe, Cetaphil, Eucerin, and Neutrogena make gentle, hydrating moisturizers that can be used after laser treatments.
The intensity and duration of your side effects depend on the treatment aggressiveness and your individual healing characteristics, generally lasting for up to one week. Patients can expect on average 2-3 days of redness and 4-7 days of a “sandpaper” feeling or dryness of the skin.
How often should Fraxel be done? The frequency of Fraxel treatments depends on the individual's skin condition and desired results. Most patients require three to six treatments spaced four to eight weeks apart for the best outcome.
Fraxel Dual is an effective but relatively gentle laser, and multiple treatments are usually needed to achieve results. Fraxel Repair will produce more dramatic results with a single treatment, but with significant recovery time and increased risks of infection and scarring.”
For a long time, the belief was to steer clear of all active ingredients post-laser treatment. However, new studies suggest otherwise . One study found that after Fraxel laser, applying a topical vitamin C serum has been shown to reduce the injury of the skin's surface barrier and even help restore pH.
Apply light layer of Aquaphor or petrolatum (fresh product only) after cleansing 3-4 times per day. Skin Care Products. All of your skin care products should be non-irritating and non-clogging for a few weeks after Fraxel Laser Treatment.
The Fraxel laser uses a 1927nm wavelength of light which is highly absorbed by the epidermal (outer layer) of the skin. It penetrates to a depth of 0.2mm. This allows complete replacement of the full thickness of the epidermis.
Don't Expose Your Skin to the Sun
This one is incredibly important, as sun exposure can make your skin photosensitive as well, making it vulnerable to sun damage. If you do need to go out on a sunny day while you are still experiencing your Fraxel Treatment recovery, wear at least an SPF 30 sunscreen on your face.
Day 5 to 7 – Continue washing the treated areas with Cetaphil cleanser. Begin using Cetaphil moisturizer instead of Vaseline/Aquaphor if skin is smooth, without crusts and not oozing.
The best moisturizer on the market today for post treatment care is Oxygenetix Oxygenating Hydro-Matrix. Specifically designed to be used after laser procedures, Hydro-Matrix is safe for compromised skin up to a third degree burn.
Different skin types require specific cosmetic procedures. Fraxel lasers work well for sensitive or light skin, reducing the potential for dark spots and scarring. CO2 lasers are stronger and fit for oilier or thicker skin.
Utilizing Green Target Plate and Green Enhanced Glasses
A green target plate generally laying with a reflective film, which can increase the visibility of the green laser beam. Green-enhanced glasses can also help you see the green beam more easily.
Cleanse the treated area with Vanicream Gentle Cleanser, which is free of irritants like fragrance and preservatives. Moisturize the treated area with Epionce Medical Barrier Cream. Apply a mineral sunscreen like TiZO Ultra Zinc Mineral Sunscreen for Face and Body SPF 40.
Getting Ready for Fraxel
Before undergoing Fraxel, avoiding sun damage helps minimize potential side effects and ensures better results. To enhance the treatment's effectiveness, skin should be clean and free of products or makeup before the Fraxel session.
Hyaluronic acids: you can recommence 3- 10 days post procedure.
DAY OF AND DAY AFTER LASER SKIN RESURFACING PROCEDURE
Sleep on your back with your head elevated about 30-40 degrees (2-3 pillows). Do not sleep on your side. Keeping your body more upright will minimize swelling.