Fractional Laser Resurfacing (Fraxel)

Fractional laser resurfacing with a Fraxel-type device treats the skin in microscopic columns to improve texture, fine lines, acne scarring and tone, while leaving surrounding skin intact for a faster recovery than fully ablative lasers. Treatment can be focused on the whole face, individual zones such as the eyelids or forehead, the neck and décolleté, or the backs of the hands. Best results come from a short course.

Fractional laser resurfacing delivers laser energy into the skin in a grid of microscopic treatment zones, leaving the surrounding tissue untouched. This fractional approach is associated with a strong collagen-remodelling response that can smooth texture, soften fine lines, fade acne scarring and even out tone, while the untreated bridges of skin between the zones allow recovery to be quicker than with older fully ablative resurfacing. At Dr Wiszniewska the skin is cleansed and numbed before treatment, which takes around thirty to forty-five minutes for the face. Afterwards the skin feels warm and looks flushed, with mild swelling and a sandpaper-like texture for a few days as it renews; most people return to normal activities quickly with diligent moisturising and sun protection. Because collagen remodelling is gradual, a course of sessions spaced several weeks apart gives the best outcome, with improvement continuing for months afterwards. The laser can be tailored to the full face, the delicate eyelid and eye-mouth-chin region, the forehead and cheeks, the neck and décolleté, or the backs of the hands, and it is also used on scars and stretch marks. Strict daily SPF is important during and after a course. The treatment is not suitable over active infection or for certain skin conditions and is avoided in pregnancy; the doctor confirms suitability and the right settings for your skin first.