What Can Fraxel® Laser Treat Beyond Wrinkles?

Most people hear about Fraxel as a way to soften fine lines and wrinkles. But if you're also dealing with sun spots or a rough, uneven complexion, you may wonder whether this laser can do more than address common signs of aging. 

The answer is yes. Fraxel is often used to fade sun damage and dark spots. It can also improve acne scars, enlarged pores, and textured skin, as well as uneven tone on the face, neck, chest, and hands. 

At Advanced Dermatology in Greater Houston, TX, our team creates Fraxel plans based on your skin type and goals. Call today to discover more and schedule a consultation. We help patients in Katy, Pearland, League City, and Sugar Land. 

How Fraxel laser treatment works 

Fraxel is a fractional laser skin resurfacing treatment, which means it treats tiny columns of skin at a time instead of the whole surface at once. The untouched skin between those columns helps you heal faster than you would with more aggressive lasers. 

As your skin repairs these small treated areas, it produces fresh collagen and elastin. Over the following weeks, newer, healthier skin replaces damaged cells, which can soften fine lines and wrinkles and improve overall tone. This makes Fraxel laser treatment a good middle ground for people who want noticeable results without a long recovery. Our team can adjust the settings to match your skin type and the concerns you want to address. 

Other skin concerns Fraxel can treat 

While fine lines and wrinkles are one of the most common reasons people try Fraxel, this laser can manage a wide range of other concerns:  

• Sun damage and dark spots: Brown spots, freckles, and patchy discoloration from years in the sun often fade as new skin comes in. 
• Acne scars: Shallow scars and pitted areas can look smoother as collagen rebuilds beneath the surface. 
• Textured skin: Rough patches and enlarged pores often feel softer and look more refined after a series of treatments, 
• Uneven skin tone: Blotchiness and dullness can give way to a brighter, more even complexion. 

Fraxel is a popular choice for patients in the Greater Houston, TX area who want to treat several issues at once with one skin resurfacing treatment. 

What happens during a Fraxel appointment 

Your visit begins with a numbing cream applied about an hour before treatment to keep you comfortable. The laser usually takes 20 – 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area. Most people describe the feeling as warm and prickly, and a cooling device helps keep the skin comfortable as the laser moves across it. 

Afterward, your skin may look red and feel like it has a mild sunburn for a few days. Some swelling and light flaking are normal as the skin renews. Most people go back to their regular routine within a few days. It's important to wear sunscreen daily, since freshly treated skin is more sensitive to UV rays. Many patients need 3 – 5 sessions spaced about a month apart, and results keep improving for several months. 

Get started with Fraxel at Advanced Dermatology 

If dark spots, acne scars, or textured skin have been bothering you, Fraxel may help you see real improvement. At Advanced Dermatology in Greater Houston, TX, our team offers this skin resurfacing treatment at our Katy, Pearland, League City, and Sugar Land locations. We'll look at your skin, talk through your goals, and recommend a plan that fits your schedule. Call today to book your Fraxel laser treatment consultation.