What Is Fraxel Laser Treatment?
Fraxel is a fractional laser resurfacing technology designed for significant skin transformation. Unlike superficial treatments, Fraxel delivers thousands of microscopic laser columns into the skin, creating controlled zones of thermal injury that trigger powerful collagen remodelling and skin renewal responses.
At Reborne Longevity in London, Fraxel laser treatment is offered for patients seeking meaningful improvement in skin texture, tone, sun damage, pigmentation irregularities, acne scarring, and visible signs of ageing. This is a clinically-supervised intervention designed for those ready for substantive results.
How Does Fraxel Laser Work?
Fraxel uses fractional photothermolysis - treating thousands of microscopic skin columns while leaving surrounding tissue intact. This fractional approach allows aggressive treatment of damaged skin while preserving healthy tissue that serves as a reservoir for rapid healing.
The controlled thermal injury removes damaged, pigmented cells and triggers a cascade of repair mechanisms including fibroblast activation and new collagen synthesis. Different Fraxel wavelengths and settings allow customisation based on specific skin concerns and acceptable downtime.
Fraxel pioneered fractional laser technology, treating microscopic zones rather than the entire skin surface. This allows deeper, more effective treatment with faster healing than traditional ablative lasers. Different Fraxel wavelengths (1927nm and 1550nm) target different depths and concerns.
Most patients benefit from a series of 3-5 Fraxel treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart, though significant improvement is often visible after a single treatment. The number of sessions depends on the severity of concerns and desired outcome.
Fraxel downtime typically ranges from 3-7 days depending on treatment intensity. Expect redness, swelling, and a sunburn-like sensation immediately after treatment, followed by bronzing and light peeling as the skin renews. Most patients feel comfortable returning to social activities within 5-7 days.
What Skin Concerns Can Fraxel Treat?
Sun Damage and Photodamage: Age spots, sunspots, uneven pigmentation
Texture Concerns: Rough skin, enlarged pores, uneven texture
Scarring: Acne scars, surgical scars, traumatic scars
Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Periorbital lines, perioral lines, general skin laxity
Melasma: Certain types of hyperpigmentation (requires careful assessment)
Topical anaesthetic is applied before treatment to minimise discomfort. Most patients describe a warm, prickling sensation during the procedure. Cooling devices may be used to enhance comfort. Post-treatment discomfort is typically mild and manageable.
Reborne Longevity offers Fraxel laser resurfacing in London as part of their advanced skin rejuvenation services.
Key References:
Manstein D et al., Lasers in Surgery and Medicine 2004 (PMID: 15278886) - Fractional photothermolysis: a new concept for cutaneous remodelling.
Geronemus RG, Dermatologic Surgery 2006 (PMID: 16706752) - Clinical outcomes with fractional resurfacing.
