Who is Fraxel suitable for: can hardware treatment cope with aging?

From this article you will learn:

• The essence of fractional laser rejuvenation
• 4 types of fractional laser rejuvenation
• Benefits of fractional laser rejuvenation
• Indications for the rejuvenation procedure
• Fractional rejuvenation for the treatment of scars and stretch marks
• Contraindications for such rejuvenation
• Preparation and progress of the procedure
• Number of sessions
• Possible side effects
• 7 tips for post-procedure care
• Approximate prices for fractional laser rejuvenation
• Frequently asked questions about fractional laser rejuvenation

Fractional laser rejuvenation is know-how in cosmetology. The procedure appeared quite recently, but has already proven itself on the positive side. Everyone who wants to rejuvenate the skin of their face, neck, and hands resorts to it. It has many indications and few contraindications.

This type of rejuvenation allows you to smooth the skin, remove scars and scars, and even out the tone. The procedure lasts a few minutes, and the effect lasts up to five years. Isn’t this what many women dream of – visiting a salon and staying beautiful for a long time? In any case, before signing up for a session, you should consult your doctor, as side effects are possible.

The essence of the technique

Fraxel is the collective name for the type of exposure to laser beams on the skin. Treatment of areas is carried out according to the principle of fractional photothermolysis. Laser radiation penetrates the skin to a specified depth.

Selective removal of cells occurs in the thickness of the tissue. Under the influence of laser beam energy, the liquid component undergoes evaporation, and the shell is destroyed.

The destruction is not continuous, but focal in nature. The impact is subject to a predetermined fractional scheme. In place of the laser-burned cells, voids remain. In these places, regeneration is activated, followed by tissue renewal.

The procedure is performed on devices that support the function of fractional photothermolysis. There are different options for complex devices. American devices are called classics of exposure according to the Fraxel system.

The fractional photothermolysis procedure is performed in clinics and beauty salons that provide hardware cosmetology services.

Attention! It is not possible to perform sessions at home: the laser machine is expensive and the device requires special operating skills. Where is it better to have dermal optical thermolysis done, simply put: with a doctor with experience in this field.

Laser operating principle

To understand why the Fraxel laser has a beneficial effect on the skin, you need to understand how it works. The beam that comes from the installation consists of thousands of ultra-thin rays invisible to the eye, affecting the deep layers of the epidermis. Thanks to the synergy of waves of different lengths, the old tissues of the skin are affected. They are destroyed, allowing new cells to develop intensively. Thanks to this, the face becomes clean and acquires a healthy color. Each patient has a different condition of the epidermis, so before the procedure, a cosmetologist conducts a thorough examination of the skin. This allows you to determine what intensity of exposure will be needed in a particular case.

Indications for use

Fraxel is prescribed for any skin type. The procedure is useful for eliminating various appearance defects:

• fine wrinkles;
• stretch marks;
• age spots, freckles;
• post-acne;
• small scars;
• ptosis in the initial stages;
• signs of withering of the dermis;
• increased oil content, enlarged pores.

Using fractional photothermolysis, local correction of deficiencies is performed. The procedure can be done on large areas (the entire face) to eliminate extended defects (deterioration of skin quality, displacement of oval boundaries).

How often can you do it, number of sessions

A course of Fraxel can be from 1 to 6 procedures, which is determined by the type of radiation and the characteristics of the problem. For a rejuvenating effect and the fight against age spots, 1-3 sessions are enough; post-acne is treated in 1-4, and for severe manifestations - in 5 visits. Scars take the longest to correct.

There is a pause of 30-40 days between sessions. During the break, it is important to follow the recommendations of the cosmetologist.

The duration of the rejuvenating effect is individual, maximum – 1-1.5 years. It depends on the lifestyle and personal characteristics of the cosmetologist’s patient. But you cannot do a laser procedure more than 2 times a year. It’s better to limit yourself to a single course during this period, maintaining skin freshness using less aggressive methods.

We recommend reading about laser facial rejuvenation techniques. From the article you will learn about the principle of laser action on the skin, types of therapy, indications and contraindications for laser rejuvenation, and results. And here you can read more about the consequences of laser resurfacing.

Fraxel gives a clear rejuvenating effect, evens out the relief of the epidermis, but does not replace routine care - creams, masks. You should not count on it if you have severe ptosis, because radiation only has a positive effect on the skin, not the muscles. And, of course, when deciding on a procedure, you should only contact a clinic with a proven reputation, otherwise you will have to be treated for new problems.

Impact effectiveness

Positive results from Fraxel therapy are obtained by those who began to fight the signs of aging in the early stages of age-related changes. Fractional laser exposure allows you to eliminate small wrinkles: crow's feet, marionettes, pouch marks.

Fractional photothermolysis is unable to cope with large nasolabial folds and glabellar creases. The same applies to pastiness: the effect is effective for eliminating slight excess skin on the eyelids or emerging jowls, but sagging cheeks and double chin will have to be dealt with using other methods.

The result of a single exposure is noticeable immediately: the skin becomes more elastic, tightened, and wrinkles are smoothed out. The face takes on a healthier, more youthful appearance. To achieve optimal results, one fractional photothermolysis procedure is not enough.

Important! The cosmetologist prescribes at least 3-4 sessions. The interval between procedures is about a month.

What is Fraxel

In 2004, US specialists presented a new Fraxel laser device, with which you can get rid of numerous skin problems. It has been tested countless times, and in all cases the result was amazing: the skin became clear and healthy. Moreover, the contours of the face acquired forms lost with age. This gave the fair sex great hopes. After all, you really want to preserve your beauty longer, without resorting to plastic surgery and questionable injections. The Fraxel procedure has quickly become an alternative to photorejuvenation. But unlike the latter, it is suitable for any person, regardless of the color of his skin. With the help of a laser, you can fight problems not only on the face. It works great on scars and stretch marks all over the body.

The main advantage of the procedure is the absence of traces after its implementation. This is very important for people who cannot devote time to long-term recovery. After the laser treatment, the next day you can safely go about your business without fear of appearing in front of people. The procedure is also absolutely safe. Laser fractional skin rejuvenation is suitable even for those who are very concerned about their health.

Types of radiation used

To perform fractional photothermolysis, 2 radiation options are used:

1. Ablative. The rays are able to penetrate to maximum depth. The laser completely removes the target cell without disturbing the integrity of the skin surface. Cavities form in the tissues, in which processes of regeneration and renewal subsequently take place. Depending on the depth of penetration of the rays, the impact can be superficial (selective), medium, or deep. Most often, ablative thermolysis is performed on devices with a CO2 laser type. Used for rejuvenation, elimination of scars, post-acne.
2. Non-ablative. Shorter laser beams are used. The impact does not go below the epidermis, the upper layers of the dermis. The laser beam does not destroy the target cell, but exposes it to thermal shock (burn). Subsequently, the existing liquid components are removed and replaced with newly formed ingredients. Most often it is performed on devices with an erbium type laser. Used to eliminate surface relief disorders, hyperpigmentation, keratosis, and correct minimal age-related changes.

A cosmetologist will help you choose the right option with high efficiency in a particular case.

The essence of fractional laser rejuvenation

One of the newest modern developments in the field of cosmetology is the technique of fractional laser rejuvenation. Currently, it is not without reason that it can be called the most popular of all laser therapy procedures.

During the session, a laser beam passed through a special fractional grid breaks up into a large number of microbeams. This method provides a targeted (fractional) effect on the skin without completely disrupting it.

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Many tiny treatment areas are formed in the dermis layer, where the development of renewed young skin tissue occurs very quickly. Cells located around the affected areas begin intensive division, filling the damaged areas. As a result, rejuvenating processes in the deep layers of the dermis are stimulated. Micro-rays, affecting the middle and upper layers of skin tissue, help eliminate pigmentation, wrinkles and scars.

Fractional laser rejuvenation of facial skin helps it gain firmness and elasticity. In addition, thanks to the procedure, pores are significantly reduced, the oval of the face becomes more toned, the shade and texture of the skin becomes smoother, and wrinkles and scars are significantly smoothed out.

Devices for the procedure

In the professional environment you can find the following devices for fractional photothermolysis:

• Sr1500. Classic model of carbon dioxide CO2 laser. The cost of the device starts from 2 million rubles. There are options Refine, Repair, Restore, differing in wavelength. With the help of devices, signs of aging, spider veins, hemangiomas, and scars are removed.

• Dual restore. The recent development of Dual combines erbium and thulium laser with non-ablative effects. The cost of the device starts from 3 million rubles. The device is suitable for working with delicate eyelid skin.

• Palomar. Multifunctional model with the ability to change attachments. The option gives results in rejuvenation and elimination of defects. The cost of the Palomar device starts from 2.5 million rubles.

You can buy Fraxel therapy devices at many retail outlets that sell medical equipment. Laser devices are complex devices with a high price. It is not practical to purchase devices for home use.

Preparatory stage

Before the procedure of fraxel correction of appearance, it is necessary to approve the possibility of intervention by a cosmetologist. The doctor will examine the condition of the skin, defects, and talk with the potential patient. The information obtained will help determine the details of further impact.

Before the procedure, preparation will be required. Be sure to exclude fresh tanning on the skin. The procedure is recommended to be performed in the autumn-winter period. You can pre-perform a superficial chemical peel, but 2 weeks in advance exclude any intensive procedures. For 3–5 days, stop using medications, the range of which will be indicated by the doctor (usually the list includes antibiotics, hormones, anticoagulants), alcohol-containing substances, and it is advisable to avoid smoking.

Attention! Fraxel treatment is performed only if the patient is in good health and the skin condition is satisfactory: the presence of damage or irritation is unacceptable.

Protocol

The essence of Fraxel exposure is partial processing of selected surfaces with laser beams. The procedure is painful and requires anesthesia. The pain relief option is selected individually. Usually limited to local anesthetic.

Fractional photothermolysis is performed in the following order:

1. Skin preparation. The cosmetologist performs superficial cleansing. Using a mild product, the doctor removes cosmetics and impurities.
2. Anesthesia. The cosmetologist performs local anesthesia using lidocaine cream applications.
3. Setting up the device. Until the anesthesia takes effect, the doctor prepares the laser for work: he sets the beam parameters.
4. Fractional influence. When working in the periorbital area, the patient's eyes are protected with special glasses. The cosmetologist brings the device to the selected area and turns on the device. You can treat the eyelids, tighten wrinkles on the forehead or strengthen the oval. When exposed to a laser, mild discomfort may occur: burning, a feeling of warmth. Redness and swelling appear on the surface of the skin.
5. Final processing. The surface exposed to the laser is wiped with an antiseptic and coated with a wound-healing substance. The doctor uses Bepanten or similar products in the form of a gel or cream.

The duration of Fraxel treatment depends on the amount of work. The procedure takes 15–90 minutes. After the session is completed, the cosmetologist talks about the rules of recovery and releases the patient for rehabilitation at home.

Healing period

After treating the skin using the Fraxel principle, there are no significant side effects. Redness, swelling, and swelling may be present for up to 2–5 days. The typical sensation is mild discomfort. After 2–3 days, crusts form that cannot be removed independently. Pieces of tissue will peel off without additional help within a week.

Photo after the procedure

The doctor will indicate the need to comply with a number of restrictions. During the rehabilitation period you cannot:

• allow contact of injured areas with water and standard cosmetics for up to 2 days;
• rub, knead, scratch the treated areas;
• overheat (wash with hot water, go to the bathhouse), become hypothermic (stay in the cold for a long time);
• sweat profusely (play sports);
• visit the pool, swim in open water;
• use cosmetics with an aggressive composition for care;
• perform various procedures for the skin of the treated areas (massage, masks, hardware);
• sunbathe and be in direct sunlight for up to a month.

For skin care, use products recommended by a cosmetologist. Usually the doctor advises to smear the treated areas with Bepanten or analogues. After 2–3 days of rehabilitation, patients gradually return to standard care. Use only light cosmetics with a soft consistency. It is useful to include thermal water and intense moisturizing cream in your care.

There is no ban on the use of decorative cosmetics. After eliminating the typical side effects, you can apply light makeup. Do not use products with a dense texture. Do not wash away contaminants with aggressive compounds or intensely affect fabrics.

The main rule of care is the regular use of ultraviolet protection. Products with filters against sun rays are applied every time you go outside in any weather. It is recommended to follow the rule for at least 2-3 months after the procedure.

Result

Rehabilitation after the Fraxel laser rejuvenation procedure takes on average 2 to 5 days. After the procedure, hyperemia and swelling of the skin, as well as moderate pain, are possible. Swelling may increase over the next day of the procedure. The patient is advised to limit salt and liquid intake. Since the integrity of the epidermis is not compromised, the patient can safely do household chores without fear of skin infection. After 1-2 days, the patient can return to normal life, hyperemia and swelling of the skin will practically disappear, the skin will acquire a slightly bronzed tint and slight peeling, much like after tanning in a solarium. This is how particles of coagulated skin appear, which gradually come to the surface and peel off. Within a month, new young collagen will form in the procedure area, its area will shrink (lifting effect), and the relief will begin to level out. It is recommended to repeat the procedure after 4-8 weeks.

Precautionary measures

Laser treatment using the Fraxel method is not performed if contraindications are identified:

• damage to the integument in the area of ​​upcoming treatment;
• the presence of inflammation, irritation;
• herpes rash;
• development of malignant tumors;
• severe diseases of the heart and blood vessels;
• problems with blood coagulation;
• serious systemic diseases (epilepsy, diabetes mellitus);
• pregnancy, lactation.

The procedure is abandoned if any disease is active. It is not recommended to perform skin treatment using the Fraxel method if you are feeling unwell. This can aggravate the health condition and adversely affect the course of rehabilitation after laser exposure to tissue.

Typical side effects of Fraxel therapy are: hyperemia, swelling, discomfort. The complications of manipulation are:

• the appearance of excessive pigmentation;
• long-lasting hyperemia;
• extensive swelling;
• addition of infection;
• the appearance of scars;
• relapses of herpes.

If you suspect a violation of the correct course of rehabilitation, it is recommended to consult a doctor for advice. Otherwise, the consequences will have to be eliminated additionally.

Contraindications for such rejuvenation

Fractional rejuvenation, like any cosmetic procedure, is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, in order to avoid negative consequences, before the session it is necessary to carefully study all contraindications.

Fractional photothermolysis is not recommended:

• during pregnancy and during breastfeeding, since any changes that occur in the body of a pregnant or lactating woman affect the baby - you should not risk the child’s health, it is better to postpone the procedure;
• in case of inflammation (or redness) in the treated area, the cosmetologist will refuse to carry out fractional laser photothermolysis in the cheek area if they are covered with an allergic rash (the laser beam can damage the skin up to deep scars);
• for chemical peeling - if you have cleansed your face, you need to allow the layers of the epidermis to strengthen for two weeks (minimum) and prepare for exposure to the laser beam;
• in the presence of oncological diseases, since spontaneous complications may arise as a result of laser exposure;
• with diagnosed diabetes mellitus;
• in the presence of viral and bacterial infections - in order to avoid the invasion of foreign elements into the cell structure during fractional rejuvenation, it is first necessary to recover completely.

Advantages and disadvantages

A clear advantage of Fraxel therapy is the ability to quickly, without complex intervention, long-term rehabilitation to obtain effective results.

The option can be used locally or over a large area. This effect is not limited by skin type or age.

The downside of the Fraxel technique is its high cost. To achieve optimal results, a single intervention is not enough. It will not be possible to achieve significant changes or a complete solution to aesthetic problems with the help of Fraxel.

Benefits of fractional laser rejuvenation

This technology has been used in the field of cosmetology for more than 10 years. It is effective, safe and has a number of advantages when compared with other rejuvenating and healing techniques:

• practically does not cause side effects;
• non-invasive, so there is no chance of client infection (including HIV);
• painless and quite comfortable;
• allowed from 16 years of age;
• hygienic, since the instruments do not come into contact with the skin;
• suitable for atonic skin types;
• it is possible to choose an individual treatment program;
• Suitable for clients with any degree of skin pigmentation;
• areas with defects are treated pointwise, so the possibility of damage to healthy tissue around is excluded;
• due to the fact that only 25% of the skin is injured, the recovery period after the procedure is short (face – seven days, body – 14 days);
• the effect becomes noticeable immediately after the first procedure;
• the result obtained lasts for several years;
• it is possible to treat delicate areas;
• in affected areas, elastin production is significantly accelerated.

Comparison with analogues

The achievements of Fraxel are often compared with the results of medium chemical peels and dermabrasion. Fractional photothermolysis is recognized as a more comfortable, safe, but expensive procedure. The effect of DOT treatment is comparable to the achievements obtained when working with the Altera apparatus.

If there are minor aesthetic defects, cosmetologists prefer to prescribe softer options: superficial peels, microdermabrasion. To solve serious problems, you cannot do without plastic surgery.

Advice. To achieve good results using thermolysis, an integrated approach is prescribed: a course of biorevitalization, mesotherapy, plasma lifting, and other options according to indications is added.

Opinion of cosmetologists

Doctors often recommend Fraxel courses to patients. The procedure can eliminate minor defects and improve the overall condition of the skin. The method cannot solve complex problems. Cosmetologists know this and do not prescribe Fraxel in difficult cases.

The cosmetologist positively evaluates the results of using Fraxel.

The cosmetologist considers the effect of fractional laser treatment to be weak.

The cosmetologist considers Fraxel to be an outdated technology.

Is Fraxel really safe for health?

Many women are very sensitive to their health. They are very wary of emerging new products, fearing various undesirable consequences. Even with serious skin problems, many representatives of the fair sex are afraid of laser treatment. According to many cosmetologists, Fraxel is absolutely safe. It allows you to eliminate all skin problems without having a harmful effect on it. Before the technique was used for skin rejuvenation, the Fraxel device underwent numerous tests and various types of testing. After it was approved by the health association, it began to be used for skin rejuvenation. But the most striking confirmation of the excellent effectiveness and safety of the technique are the reviews of women who have already experienced it themselves. Almost all representatives of the fair sex were very pleased with the effect obtained after laser exposure. Grinding with Fraxel makes the skin very attractive, smooth, and fresh.

Patient reviews

Patient opinions about the Fraxel procedure are conflicting. Some receive the expected positive changes, others are upset by the results of the procedure. Manipulation is not capable of producing a dramatic effect or solving serious problems. This is not always taken into account when paying significant amounts for the procedure.

I liked the result of fractional laser resurfacing.

I liked the results of thermolysis, but complications arose.

The expected effect was not obtained.

Fraxel result not received.

The doctor answers

Question: Hello! I'm interested in the question: is Fraxel capable of ridding me of a scar after a burn? The fact is that the scar is old and of considerable size. How expedient is the procedure?

Answer: Hello! In this case, it is advisable to carry out procedures using the Re Pair device. You should first consult with a cosmetologist - he will tell you exactly how many procedures will be required. Small scars can be completely reduced, but for large and deep ones, the procedure will significantly improve their aesthetic appearance.

Question: Hello! Can Fraxel help get rid of postpartum stretch marks on the thighs and abdomen if quite a lot of time has passed since their appearance?

Answer: Hello! Fraxel can significantly improve the aesthetic appearance of the skin, but, unfortunately, it is not capable of completely eliminating significant stretch marks. In this case, it is better to consult with a cosmetologist who will help you choose the best correction method. It is better to use Fraxel on stretch marks in the early stages, in which case the result is almost ideal; it is more difficult to deal with old stretch marks.

Question: Hello! Deep expression wrinkles appeared. Does it make sense to undergo the Fraxel procedure? Will he help me?

Answer: Hello! There is definitely a point. Fraxel has an excellent effect on facial skin. The effect will be noticeable after the first session. However, if you carry out a set of procedures, the skin will become much more elastic, and deep wrinkles will almost completely disappear.