Fraxel Laser Treatments: An Introduction

Though lasers have had a longstanding use in industrial and chemical applications, the Fraxel laser was the first fractional laser to be used cosmetically. Microscopic and low-energy (safe for the skin) columns of laser energy are concentrated into the skin, which then spars the skin in between the lasers. Two main wavelengths of laser are used, 1550nm and 1927nm. The 1550nm wavelength is a deeply penetrating laser, which makes it an ideal choice for deeper cosmetic issues, such as acne scarring and other associated facial scarring. However, the 1927nm laser is a different story. It's penetration levels are very limited, which allows it to take care of more superficial issues such as hyper pigmentation and wrinkles. Though they are rarely used in succession, a professional laser supervisor can, in theory, use both in one session to target different depths of skin problems.

Treatment

The process for receiving this type of treatment is widely considered to be pain free and simple. A topical anesthetic cream is typically applied 45 minutes to an hour before treatments, to allow time to make sure that the feeling of the laser will be fully diminished. Other anesthetics such as nitrous oxide may also be used, but topical creams tend to be the most used. To further reduce discomfort, a machine called a Zimmer Cooler is also used. This targets cool air onto the area to reduce unnecessary heat buildup in the skin. An intelligent optical tracking system fires the lasers in a controlled manner onto the skin under direction of trained professionals, and most procedures take only 20 minutes to complete.

Benefits

The benefits of a treatment such as this are magnificent. Skin conditions such as acne scarring, wrinkles, and even skin discoloration can be visibly reduced and in some cases eliminated by 1-3 sessions of Fraxel. In patients, this can allow for a level of increased confidence that can only be gained through this type of treatment. It's important to note this is done in a controlled and professional environment, so fears and qualms about a patients safety should be alleviated. Treatment costs tend to be very affordable, and can be further discussed with your primary care physician. The most common area to be treated is the facial and neck areas, however treatment can also be done on the hands, neck and other body parts.

Dr. Gavin Chan is a practising thevictoriancosmeticinstitute.com.au cosmetic surgeon Since 2004, Dr. Chan has specialised in providing non-surgical cosmetic surgery procedures at Melbournes Victorian Cosmetic Institute. Treatments offered include: Chemical peels, anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, lipodissolve, skin needling, photodynamic therapy, and laser tattoo removal. He is one of Allergan's Australian doctor trainers for dermal fillers. Dr Chan is also a current member of the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia. For more information on thevictoriancosmeticinstitute.com.au/fraxel-laser fraxel lasers and other treatments offered by The Victorian Cosmetic institute visit the site.