Fractional skin resurfacing is a non-invasive procedure designed to restore smooth, youthful looking skin by activating the body’s collagen boosting process. At Grossman Dermatology in Santa Monica, we use Fraxel laser resurfacing to help restore smoother, brighter skin. Contact us today to schedule your appointment. Our medical team can help restore more vibrant skin.
How Fractional Skin Resurfacing Lasers Work
Fractional skin resurfacing lasers are designed to treat aging skin as well as sun-damaged skin by honing-in on the damaged tissue. Essentially, the laser generates a series of microchannels that penetrate the dermis to reach far beneath the outer most layer of skin. The laser then works to minimize any old pigmented cells. Untouched, healthy tissue surrounds each of the beams and helps stimulate the body’s own healing process. This process accelerates collagen production in addition to forming new, smoother, tighter tissue that ultimately replaces the imperfections of the skin.
During treatment, the technician treats one area at a time, slowly cooling each area before progressing to the next targeted area. Because of the unique cooling tip that works to control the skin’s temperature, a topical anesthetic isn’t required.
Benefits of Fractional Skin Resurfacing
Due to the non-invasive nature of the skin resurfacing treatment, there is virtually no downtime after you leave our office. Most people can return to their jobs and any pre-planned social obligations the very same day of the treatment, while others may need a bit more time to properly heal, depending on their specific treatment and skin condition. Patients can even apply makeup directly after the treatment is performed.
What’s the average amount of treatments necessary?
Depending on the results you are trying to achieve, multiple treatment sessions may be recommended. Our medical team can evaluate your skin and create a treatment plan for your needs. We’ll help determine the most effective way to get you the results you want.
Most patients need about three treatments, spaced roughly four weeks apart. However, based on the severity of the person’s condition that requires treatment, it could take as many as six treatments overall.
What Happens after Treatment
The results are typically progressive and immediate. New collagen starts to develop within the following two or three months, which creates healthy, youthful looking skin with fewer wrinkles and a radiant, healthy glow.
For the initial 24 hours following treatment your skin may feel as if it’s sunburned, and may appear somewhat pink or red with a bit of mild swelling. The warm color, however, will fade within a couple of hours. Be sure to use a quality moisturizer to help decrease any dryness or flakiness. Also, if you’re going to be in the sun, apply a SPF 30 sunscreen and stay clear of any direct sun exposure while you’re still in the healing process. Your skin will be very sensitive following the resurfacing treatment, so we highly recommend staying out of the sun altogether, if possible.
