Fraxel Dual patients may be curious to learn more about this laser rejuvenation procedure. It is part of a larger family of Fraxel lasers.  The  name reflects the fact that it uses two energy wavelengths:

(1) 1550nm

(2) 1927 nm

Fraxel Dual is one of the few cosmetic lasers that can be used safely on individuals of all skin tones. It can also stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin protein fibers. This is particularly useful for:

(1) enhancing the firmness and tightness of the skin

(2) reducing the size of large pores

(3) fading the appearance of  scar tissue.

Fraxel Dual is also used to break up unwanted areas of melanin. The body will then clear away this pigment from the skin. This can be used to get rid of :

(1) age spots (also known as sun spots)

(2) freckles

DERMATOLOGY OF FRAXEL DUAL

Fraxel Dual uses two wavelengths that are comparably longer than those of most other laser systems.

(1) 1550nm is able address skin issues that stem from deeper layers

(2) 1927nm is able to address skin issues that are near the surface of the skin.

Shorter wavelengths have the tendency to scatter. Because of this, they are easily absorbed by the melanin which colors the skin. Therefore, individuals with darker skin can absorb higher amounts of heat. This puts them at risk for scarring and hyperpigmentation.

Fraxel Dual’s longer wavelengths will only focus on the objectives of the procedure instead of reacting to surrounding melanin.  Therefore, it offers a much safer form of laser treatment for ethnic skin tones.

The Creation of New Collagen and Elastin

Fraxel Dual’s wavelengths are able to affect the dermis layer which produces these protein fibers. It heats this region of the skin to  stimulate normal healing processes that result in new collagen and elastin fibers.

The Clearing of Pigmentation

Fraxel Dual can help with achieving more even looking skin tones. Pigmentation in the form of age spots or freckles originate from the production of melanin. The energy wavelengths will break up the cells which contain this pigment. And these remains will be cleared away by natural processes in the body.

FRAXEL DUAL PROCEDURES

Fraxel Dual procedures can be performed for a variety of objectives. This includes:

(1) improving skin texture and firmness

(2) clearing away unwanted pigmentation

(3) fading away acne scar tissue

Additionally, Fraxel Dual has been approved by the FDA for:

• mild or moderate forms of periorbital wrinkles (lines around the eyes)
• melasma (areas of pigmentation due to sun exposure and hormones)
• sun damage to the skin (also known as photodamage)
• actinic keratosis
• surgical scars

Fraxel Dual offers non ablative laser treatments.  This means that it does not remove unwanted tissue through vaporization, unlike Fraxel Repair.

Procedures usually take around half and hour. To help maximize the comfort level of the patients, lidocaine cream  is usually applied to the surface. The laser energy is passed over the skin, similar to a wand.

The skin will be red after a Fraxel Dual procedure. This will look like a sunburn. And for the following week or two, a bronzed appearance will develop. This outer layer will flake and shed to reveal younger looking skin beneath it.

While some individuals are able to see excellent changes after their first treatment, most people need between 3-5 procedures for ideal results.

After the treatment, it will be important to be very diligent about sun protection for the following three months.  Daily use of SPF 30 sunscreen is recommended along with protective clothing.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT FRAXEL DUAL  PROCEDURES

(1) Are the results of Fraxel Dual permanent?

Each patient will be different. However, the longevity of the results largely depends on your efforts to keep your skin protected from the sun.  Fraxel Dual can make needed changes in the physiology of your skin (by producing collagen, elastin and breaking up pigmentation). But this progress can be undermined by excessive UV exposure.

(2) What are the side effects of Fraxel Dual?

It is common for patients to experience redness and swelling for a few days after the procedure. Other side effects can include peeling, flaking, dry skin and itching as well.  In more rare instances, infections may develop. Your service provider will give you more detailed  instructions on how to take care of these issues.

(3) Are Fraxel Dual procedures painful?

Most patients will report feeling strong heat from the treatment. However, the degree of pain experienced will depend on the individual’s threshold.

(4) How much time is normally allocated between Fraxel Dual sessions?

Usually procedures are scheduled two to four weeks apart

(5) When will I see optimal results?

Optimal results are usually evident by the third month of treatment

(6) How much will a Fraxel Dual procedure cost?

Fraxel Dual procedures normally cost anywhere from $750-$1500 per session.

PHOTOS AND VIDEOS OF LOS ANGELES FRAXEL DUAL PATIENTS

Photos and videos can be very helpful in learning more about the experiences of actual patients.

This patient wanted smoother, more even looking skin. She received a mild exfoliation using the Spectra laser as the first phase. Fraxel Dual was then used in the next phase to improve the skin from deeper layers and to clear away pigmentation.

Los Angeles patient before and after her laser treatments with Spectra and Fraxel Dual*

Another patient wanted to get rid of age spots and improve the texture of her skin.  While improvements are visible in her before and after pictures, she also explains  in her video how she felt like she experienced a rebirth with her skin’s improvements thanks to Fraxel Dual.

Patient before and after Fraxel Dual*

This patient also experienced significant changes  as Fraxel Dual improved her skin’s complexion. In her video, she explains how other people noticed a big difference.

Results of Fraxel Dual for age spots*

Below are two patients who received Fraxel Dual treatments for acne scars. In both cases, existing acne needed to be cleared before targeting the scar tissue itself. This was done using the Spectra laser.

Los Angeles patient with acne scars before and after treatments with Spectra and Fraxel Dual.*

Los Angeles acne scar patient before and after Fraxel Dual*

Here is another patient who received treatment for Fraxel Dual. The deep scar that you see on his nose was the outcome of a punch biopsy which was performed at another clinic.

Fraxel Dual was able to help the skin produce new collagen tissue which helped to fill in the indentation.

Depth of scar improved due to treatment with Fraxel Dual*

As you can see in the results, this reduced the depth of the recess.

Patient before and after laser treatment for scar. Notice the reduction in the depth of the indentation.*

Los Angeles Fraxel Dual procedures are very versatile. Prospective patients are encouraged to educate themselves as much as they can about these treatments.