Exactly What Happened When I Tried 'Fraxel' Laser for My Pigmentation (Plus My Results)
Amy Clark is Adore Beauty's former Senior Editor and co-host of Skincare School the podcast (and self-appointed beauty road-tester!). Amy's worked as a journalist, beauty editor and podcaster for several years, previously writing and talking about all things beauty at Mamamia and You Beauty. When she's not writing honest, no BS product reviews and taking selfies 'for work', you'll find Amy eating halloumi in a hair towel turban and... taking more selfies.
Key Takeaways
- Fraxel is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates collagen and elastin production, ideal for addressing hyperpigmentation and fine lines.
- Results appear roughly seven to ten days after treatment, and individual experiences may vary based on skin type and treatment specifics.
- Post-treatment care is crucial; wearing sunscreen diligently and avoiding sun exposure can significantly influence the outcomes.
- Expect initial redness and swelling; skin may temporarily worsen before it starts to improve, as pigmentation spots darken and flake off over time.
- Customisation is key when it comes to Fraxel treatments, as settings must be tailored to individual skin types and concerns for best results.
- Down time varies, but at least a week is recommended to allow the skin to heal properly and reveal smoother texture afterwards.
- Consultation is necessary to determine if Fraxel is suitable for you, considering factors like skin type, tone, and overall health.
- Cost can start around $750, depending on the area treated and desired results, making it a significant investment in skincare.
- Ongoing maintenance is crucial, as some level of sun damage and hyperpigmentation is inevitable despite treatment efforts.
Hello and welcome to my TED Talk on Fraxel laser.
If you've clicked into this article, it's because you've heard the term 'Fraxel' and how the laser skin treatment can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, acne scars and wrinkles...
But, you have questions.
Like, what does Fraxel do for skin? Do I have to take time off work? How soon will I see Fraxel laser results? Is laser painful? Will there be blood?!
My bio says I'm a beauty road-tester, so naturally, I went and had Fraxel done to tell you first-hand exactly what it's really like.
I also asked an expert every question you've ever had about Fraxel laser skin treatments.
Because if you want to treat sun spots and melasma, winter is the best time to try Fraxel laser.
*For transparency, this treatment from Dr Jeremy Cumpston at Ageless Clinics was complimentary.
What is Fraxel Laser?
Dr Jeremy says, "Fraxel is a non-invasive, microscopic fractional laser that penetrates the skin to encourage and stimulate cells in producing new collagen and elastin."
Unlike really aggressive lasers, Fraxel is a 'fractional skin resurfacing treatment', which means it only targets part of (or a fraction of) the skin at a time.
A similar but less hectic version of Fraxel is Clear & Brilliant - also known as 'baby Fraxel'.
Beauty IQ Uncensored podcast co-host Joanna gave it a go, you can hear about her experience in the podcast episode below.
What Is Fraxel Laser For?
Fraxel laser can be used to treat multiple skin concerns:
- Laser pigmentation removal in the treatment of hyperpigmentation.
- Laser for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Laser scar removal in the treatment of acne scarring, including 'ice pick' acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (the little red or brown spots left behind once a pimple has healed).
Important: A consultation is always recommended first to see if this particular treatment is suited to you.
Learn more from a dermatologist about treatments for acne scarring in this YouTube video below.
How Fraxel Laser Works.
"Fraxel laser is a two-in-one process because not only is it a skin resurfacing or regeneration treatment, it also only targets a fraction of the skin at any given time," Dr Jeremy says.
"Fraxel uses two different wavelengths of fractional laser beams. The first wave treats all the superficial stuff like skin pigmentation or ‘dark spots’, and the second wave goes deeper to treat fine lines, wrinkles and scars."
Dr Jeremy adds Fraxel laser is a completely customisable skin treatment.
"Variables such as laser strength and how deep into the skin the laser can penetrate can be controlled on the Fraxel machine."
"For instance, the settings we use on someone with fair skin are different to someone with more pigment."
Can Anyone Get Fraxel Laser?
The answer: Maybe.
Like with any skin treatment, factors including skin condition and tone, existing health conditions, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding and certain lifestyle factors may determine whether or not Fraxel laser is suitable for you at any given time.
You might've heard laser isn't right for melanated skin or deeper skin tones. But Dr Michelle Rodrigues from Chroma Dermatology says there are forms of laser that are generally safe for those with deeper complexions looking to treat hyperpigmentation or acne scarring.
It's always best to seek advice from a professional to ensure you're being treated with the right devices used within the right parameters, because all skin treatments should be “tailored to the individual's problem and skin type."
"It is believed pigment changes [like hyperpigmentation] are more likely to occur in those with darker skin types because of the larger amount of melanin contained in melanosomes."
"For pigmentation, the safest laser thus far, based on clinical research, is the 755nm picosecond laser … special settings are required to get the best results."
For more on this topic, read our article on skin treatments for deeper complexions here or listen to our interview with Dr Michelle Rodrigues on this episode of the Beauty IQ Uncensored podcast below!
OK Cool, But Does Fraxel Hurt?
The most common question I'm asked about Fraxel is... how painful are we talking??
Here's a quick recap of exactly what to expect from your Fraxel treatment:
- Fraxel is typically only performed in cooler periods of the year when the UV index is low.
- Your dermatologist or qualified professional should take you through the best option for your skin, lifestyle and skin concerns prior to your personalised treatment.
- The actual laser treatment takes no longer than 45 minutes, though numbing using medical-grade numbing cream is required an hour prior to treatment.
- As the Fraxel device rolls over the surface of each area of the skin multiple times, it feels a little hot and prickly, but not painful (that's what the numbing cream is for!).
- A cooling air hose is used while the Fraxel treatment is being performed to cool the skin.
- You might smell a slight burning scent and hear a crackling sound, this is all normal.
- At the end of the treatment, the skin is usually red and can be swollen, but you won't see any blood!
- You should also be provided with comprehensive aftercare instructions.
Here's a little video showing me having the Fraxel treatment.
WARNING: You will see some blood because I had an injectable skin treatment called Beauty Boost at the same time. But that's another story for another day.
How Long for Fraxel Laser Results?
Fraxel laser results are usually visible seven to 10 days post-treatment, but everyone's skin is different.
Plus, your Fraxel treatment might be different to the next person's, so be guided by your professional.
Side note, I think winter is the best time of year to have Fraxel done because you'll naturally be avoiding the sun more and staying indoors.
Any sun exposure can cause your hyperpigmentation to return, so having the treatment in winter means you'll be able to enjoy the results come summer.
My Fraxel Laser Pigmentation Removal Review.
I love my natural freckles, but over time, they were starting to brown and join together, giving my skin a mottled, sun damaged appearance.
My main concern with having Fraxel was whether it could target my sun damage, without removing all of my natural freckles.
After assessing my skin and listening to what I was after, Dr Jeremy recommended Fraxel administered carefully and on a very low setting to remove these clusters of pigment.
Fraxel Aftercare & Down Time.
PSA: Your skin will look worse after Fraxel before it looks better, trust the process.
Dr Jeremy recommends taking at least a week of down time (or working from home) as your skin may appear red and tender, similar to a skin burn.
The spots of treated pigment will become darker before flaking away, and you may also experience peeling, flaking and a rough skin texture.
Maintaining hydration internally and externally (more on that in a bit) is important, but the number one thing you MUST do after having Fraxel is wear *sunscreen and avoid the sun.
"I can't stress this enough. Please wear sunscreen, reapply, wear a hat and avoid sun exposure as much as possible."
If you aren't able to commit to doing this, a good professional won't recommend going ahead with the treatment.
This is because sun exposure post-laser can cause dangerous sun damage that may increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
This damage will also legitimately look far more prominent than your existing hyperpigmentation. You've been warned!
My Fraxel recovery day-by-day was almost exactly as I was told it would be.
I was sent home wearing a thick layer of SPF50+ sunscreen, and my face felt and looked hot, red, stingy and tender for around four to six hours. I'd describe it as how a really bad sunburn feels.
The next morning (day two), I woke up and my skin wasn't inflamed or painful at all. I noticed some slight skin texture and a few little dots of pigment coming to the surface.
Day three was when things started getting a bit hectic...
I could physically see the pigment on the surface of my skin as small, textured scabs that became rougher and more pronounced as the days went on.
Then, around day six or seven, the pigment began peeling off to reveal baby soft skin underneath.
Fraxel Skincare Recommendations.
The skin care you use in the seven to 10 days following your Fraxel treatment is just as important as the treatment itself.
Here's the advice I received from Dr Jeremey:
- Avoid wearing makeup, and using all harsh active serums, chemical exfoliants or vitamin A/retinol products.
- Do not try to physically exfoliate or scrub off any rough spots or texture - allow it to peel and flake off naturally. (It'll usually happen while you're asleep!)
- Use gentle, hydrating skincare products like a basic cleanser (or even just water), a hydrating serum and a basic moisturiser.
- Ingredients to look for include hyaluronic acid, niacinamide (vitamin B3) and panthenol (vitamin B5).
- WEAR SUNSCREEN and reapply pedantically.
Here are the skincare products I used in the fortnight following my Fraxel laser treatment:
1. Sunscreen.
I went through so much sunscreen.
I mostly used the Ella Bache Great Facesaver 50+ Lotion because it's a broad spectrum SPF50+ chemical sunscreen that provides protection from UVA rays (the rays that age you) and UVB rays (the rays that burn you).
Plus, it is unscented and has a fairly thick texture. It's worth noting SPF is only one part of sun protection!
Always seek shade, and wear sunnies, a hat and protective clothing. Use sufficient sunscreen for all unprotected areas and reapply sunscreen as directed. Always read the label.
2. Cleansers & Serums.
I cleansed with water in the morning, and used a gentle, hydrating cleanser like Murad Prebiotic 4-in-1 Multi Cleanser 148mL to remove sunscreen at night.
Morning and night after cleansing, I applied a hydrating serum.
Revolution Skincare 2% Hyaluronic Acid Plumping & Hydrating Solution 30ml and BOOST LAB 2D-Hyaluronic Hydro Boost Serum are both great, affordable options.
3. Moisturisers.
In the morning before sunscreen, at night after my serum and throughout the day whenever my skin felt dry, I chucked on a basic moisturiser.
Weleda Skin Food - 75ml or mesoestetic melan recovery 50ml would be suitable (the latter is specifically for post-procedure skin).
From day seven or eight, I wore a light layer of the Ella Bache Superfluid Great SPF50+ over the top of the sunscreen when going out to add the tiniest bit of radiant coverage.
Ultra Violette Daydream Screen SPF50 Tinted Veil would be another excellent alternative to wearing foundation post-treatment.
You can read more about skincare products for after skin treatments in this article by our resident dermal therapist.
Fraxel Laser Before & After.
Now, for the big reveal! My Fraxel laser before and after photos!
I had this treatment done about nine months ago and I truly forgot just how incredible the results were.
The best thing was how the personalised treatment maintained my natural freckles, but lifted the sun damage that was giving my skin a mottled, aged appearance.
Yes, I still had fine lines and blemishes, but my overall skin appearance was super radiant and healthy-looking.
My skin appeared visibly brighter, clearer, plumper and more even. In selfies, it kind of looked like I was using a filter...
For real, I'm not wearing any makeup in this selfie below.
Fraxel Laser Cost.
The starting price of a Fraxel treatment is approximately $750.
This depends on what area you're looking to treat (e.g. just forehead, whole face, face, neck and hands) and what kind of results you're after.
So, Does Fraxel Work?
Absolutely, but only if you follow the rules.
Because the cold, hard truth about any form of hyperpigmentation treatment, including Fraxel laser, is it's an ongoing process of maintenance.
You can't actually ever 'get rid of' hyperpigmentation for good because we live in the sun, so some level of sun damage is unavoidable - even if you are very sun safe.
How many treatments will you need to see results? Dr Jeremy advises you'll see results after one treatment.
"Fraxel has been clinically proven to assist in the removal of precancerous skin lesions (up to60 per cent with one treatment), so if you have significant sun damage, it’s advisable to have up to three sessions of Fraxel treatment within a 12-month period."
Would I have Fraxel again? 100 per cent.
P.S. This article details my experience and shouldn't be substituted for professional, personalised advice.
If you're thinking about Fraxel, go and see a reputable professional. Capeesh?
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