Laser Resurfacing and Fraxel are great treatment options because they can address a few concerns at one; ageing, pigmentation and sun damage, skin texture and scarring. Here are some important things to know about prepping and aftercare before you book in.
Pre-Treatment Screening
Before you can even start your skin-prepping routine, you should have a consultation with a trained Doctor or Clinician to determine which treatment is right for you.
“A clinician can assess your skin and recommend the correct laser and the number of treatments you might need based on your skin type, the condition of your skin and what you are trying to achieve,” explains a Senior Dermal Clinician
There are a few different lasers that do resurfacing treatments, including Fraxel, CO2 Fractional and Erbium. Not all treatments are suitable for all skin types, so a consultation is a good place to start.
Skin Prepping
Regardless of which Laser Resurfacing Treatment you have, you’ll need to prepare your skin for 2-4 weeks (depending on your history and skin type) with a pigment inhibiting serum to prevent the chance of PIH (Post-inflammatory pigmentation).
You’ll also need to avoid direct sun exposure for 2-4 weeks before and after treatment. UV radiation causes cell damage, breaks down collagen and increases your chance of hyperpigmentation, so it defeats the purpose of having a treatment.
“This doesn’t mean you can’t go for a walk outside, just that you need to be more mindful of UV exposure on treated areas of skin, so wear a physical sunscreen and wear a large-brimmed hat when you’re outdoors for longer periods of time,”
Fraxel Treatment
The day of your treatment should be exciting because it feels good to do something nice for yourself,, but clients can have some treatment day nerves if it’s their first time.
“There is some degree of discomfort with certain Laser Resurfacing or Fraxel treatments, and this varies person to person depending on their threshold. Fortunately, we have things to ease discomfort like prescription numbing cream and cooling which is used throughout the treatment. We also talk you through the treatment and make it as comfortable as possible,” , “it is generally well tolerated.”
Fraxel Post-Treatment Care
There is usually some degree of downtime which can range from redness (like a sunburn) to peeling, flaking or dryness. “It really depends on the laser and the treatment intensity,” Remember, there are different treatment options depending on the condition of your skin and what you’re comfortable with.
Post-treatment care usually involves using a very gentle mild cleanser, a hydrating moisturiser and a good physical sunscreen.
You should avoid exercise for 24 hours after treatment. This is because heat and sweat can create a humid environment where bacteria proliferate, which can prolong your downtime or cause an adverse reaction.
You should also avoid cosmetic makeup for at least a week, save for a light mineral powder, as makeup can clog pores and irritate your healing skin.
As mentioned above, you’ll need to be mindful of UV exposure as well. Physical sunscreen is incredibly important to protect the skin
Results of a Fraxel Treatment
Once the downtime period passes, your results should shine through and even improve over the next few weeks.
Results are not necessarily permanent, but they can be prolonged with good maintenance. “We are ageing every single day, so there is no permanent cure, but there are steps you can take,”
A good skincare routine that starts with an exfoliating cleanser, followed by serums with antioxidants and pigment inhibitors and a daily moisturising SPF are recommended. It will help you maintain your skin’s health and prolong your glowing treatment results!
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