Until a decade ago, cosmetic surgeons used dermabrasion techniques, deep chemical peels and carbon dioxide (non-fractional) laser to solve stubborn cosmetic problems. However, there were many risks associated with these techniques. Chemical peels caused effects which were largely similar to that of a second degree burn. Dermabrasion caused thinner skin and hypopigmentation. This led to the development of Fraxel™ or Fractional Laser Abrasion.

Fraxel™ is a gentle and safe alternative to traditional laser resurfacing. It is effective in improving cosmetic problems such as acne scars, aging skin, age spots, enlarged pores, fine lines, birthmarks, and sun damaged skin.

Unlike in dermabrasion, the entire skin is not torn off. Fraxel™ uses a narrow column of light which targets and destroys microscopic areas. The healthy cells surrounding such areas remain intact. This ensures quick healing and a reduced level of pain for patients because the healthy cells which are left behind help hasten the healing process. The increased production of collagen causes the skin to tighten. Pigmentation is normalized.

Fraxel™ is a gradual and slow treatment. Fraxel™ Restore treatment consists of a series of six or more treatments performed at least three weeks apart. This gradual process ensures optimum safety and health for your skin. Patients will find that they can easily resume their daily chores and go back to work the next day or that very day with slight redness and swelling but no oozing or crusting.

The Fraxel™ Repair laser, is a fractional ablative laser using the carbon dioxide wavelength, but being fractional, its downtime is less involved and risky than the old-fashioned fully ablative carbon dioxide laser.

Dr. Shelton was again, one of the first in New York City, to acquire the Fraxel™ Dual laser. This unique laser incorporates a new and improved, faster and more gentle Fraxel™ Restore laser along with a Thurium laser that helps fade freckles and brown spots in one or two treatments. The downtime is in between the Fraxel™ Restore and Fraxel™ Repair lasers and is great for fine lines and sundamage.

There is no doubt about the fact that Fraxel™ is an effective yet safe procedure. This is why Dr. Shelton recommends Fraxel™ to patients who have aesthetic concerns about their face.

Page Updated: November 2021