Superficial melasma and unwanted
pigmentation have traditionally been difficult problems to treat and
have required multiple treatments, peels or long term and persistent
use of melanin suppressor products.
The Fraxel Restore Dual was developed
with the Thulium laser wavelength which specifically targets
discoloration in the upper levels of the skin.
The Fraxel Dual has received FDA approval for the treatment of
superficial pigmentation (Melasma). A unique handprint laser which
very quickly can treat your entire face in about 20 minutes. Also
can be used to treat pigmentation on the chest, arms and hands.
Photo Source Solta Medical Aesthetic Center
Combined with the Fractional Resurfacing of the Fraxel Restore
Erbium laser wavelength, the Fraxel Dual offers two distinct but
synergistic procedures to increase the overall improvement of anyone
wishing to improve sun damaged skin.
What pigmentation problems will the new Fraxel Dual
treat ?
• Superficial Melasma
• Superficial Pigmentation from Sun Exposure
• Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
•
Pigmentation Issues for all Skin Colors
• Diffuse superficial pigmentation irregularities on the skin of the
face, hands, chest and arms
What can I expect after a Fraxel Thulium treatments?
Your skin will be somewhat reddened for about 2 days with a thin
peel over the following 4 to 5 day period. The new skin beneath will
be cleared and more evenly toned.
Good skin protection with SPF 30 or higher sunblock will protect
your new skin and help prevent recurrence of pigmentation. Sunblock
products with the triple ingredients of ecamsale (trade name mexoryl),
avobenzone and zinc oxide will provide the most protection.
Is the treatment painful?
Most patients describe an increased sensation of heat during the treatment. To minimize discomfort, apply topical anesthesia before the procedure and cold air during the procedure. The cold air flow follows the handpiece so cooling is more effective than before. After the treatment, most patients feel like they have a sunburn, which usually diminishes in 1 to 3 hours.
Will I need more than one treatment to get rid of
pigmentation?
Patients with superficial pigmentation should get satisfactory
results after one treatment. Patients with long term melasma or deep
level pigmentation issues will likely need 2 or 3 sessions over a
period of time as deep pigmentation must "rise" to the surface skin
levels before it is affected by laser.
How long must I wait after Fraxel Thulium for Fraxel
Resurfacing?
There is not wait time between laser treatments. The dual wavelength lasers are designed to be easily compatible and can be used in a single session. Typically
the Thulium laser treatment is delivered as the first procedure when both
pigmentation and either sun damage, aged skin texture or scarring are also present.
When would I want to move up to Fraxel Repair CO2 laser?
The Fraxel Repair is for deeper wrinkles, more profound sun
damage and to some degree, skin laxity. It is a single session
procedure and is performed with short-term general anesthesia
with a certified anesthesiologist. Fraxel Repair patients are
treated in a surgical suite to ensure total patient comfort, safety
and controlled protection from contaminants. Fraxel Repair CO2
Dr. Pilest is a training physician for the Fraxel Laser systems and has used the Fraxel lasers since their initial entry into the dermatology field in 2004.
