As an ablative procedure, the Fraxel Repair CO2 Laser treatment uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to vaporize microscopic columns of tissue deep within the skin. The Fraxel Repair laser is a more aggressive specialist procedure and is used to treat the most severe signs of skin damage.

Fraxel Repair CO2 Laser is most beneficial for the more severe forms of the following conditions:

• Ageing Skin
• Skin Laxity Contraction
• Sun Damaged Skin
• Pigmentation, Melasma & Age Spots
• Actinic Keratosis (precancerous lesions)
• Deep Wrinkles
• Severe Acne Scars
• Surgical & Trauma Scars
• Burn Scars

Clinical studies suggest that on average, an effective treatment regimen is normally 2 to 3 Fraxel Repair CO2 laser treatment sessions spaced approximately 8 weeks apart. Depending on your condition and schedule, you and the doctor may choose to space treatment sessions further apart. Results are immediate and progressive, with optimal improvement usually visible in 2 to 3 months. This time frame and treatment structure allow for complete healing and the production of new collagen and elastin to replace damaged tissue.

The Fraxel Repair CO2 Laser treatment is an uncomfortable procedure, but the treatment delivers remarkable results with minimal downtime. In an initial consultation, your physician will determine the best Fraxel Laser treatment plan for your desired results. Then, when you’re ready for treatment, it will be performed in your physician’s clinic. Here’s what happens:

• The area of your skin to be treated is thoroughly cleansed 
• A special topical anaesthetic cream and local anaesthetic injections are applied to your skin
• A mild sedative is also an option for suitable patients
• The treatment takes approximately 60 minutes for a full face treatment

Most patients describe the procedure as being uncomfortable, but the pain & discomfort subsides as soon as the treatment is complete.

For the first 2-3 days, your laser treated skin will have oozing and pinpoint bleeding.  These appearances are completely normal. 

After 2-3 days, the oozing and pinpoint bleeding will stop and will be replaced with numerous fine scabs and small points of dried blood.  Patients are advised to keep applying Vaseline to allow these to fall off sooner but do not forcibly wipe them off or pick at them.

Once the face has fully cleared, usually by Day 7 to 9, the skin will appear pink like a mild sunburn. This will fade over the next few weeks. Patients may camouflage the pink skin with foundation and return to work and social activities.

A specialised skin care regimen will be prescribed by you MD Cosmedical Solutions doctor to protect, soothe, and further accentuate your Fraxel Laser treatment results.

Dramatic results are usually seen after the first treatment with the Fraxel Repair CO2 Laser. Typically the skin will look fresher and clearer, with noticeable improvement in skin texture and tone. These effects are evident after the 4 weeks in most cases. The skin condition and texture continues to improve over successive months, as the structural changes in the skin improve with the body’s natural healing processes.  Even greater improvements are achieved as the treatment programme is completed.

Results of Fraxel CO2 Laser will last for many years depending on your particular condition and how  you take care for your skin. Once your skin is treated, continue to protect it as described by your medical practitioner.

Fraxel Repair CO2 Laser Aftercare:

The aftercare for Fraxel Repair CO2 Laser treatments is important and includes the following :

• Simple analgesia (e.g. Paracetamol or Nurofen) for the first

24 hours if required.

• Ice application to the treated area for the 1^st 24 to 48 hours.
• For the first 2-3 days, your laser treated skin will have oozing and pinpoint bleeding.  These appearances are completely normal.You will be supplied with a special dilute Vinegar and Vaseline to use as instructed by the medical team.
• After 2-3 days, the oozing and pinpoint bleeding will stop and will be replaced with numerous fine scabs and small points of dried blood.  Patients are advised to keep applying Vaseline to allow these to fall off sooner but donot forcibly wipe them off or pick at them.
• Once the face has fully cleared, usually by Day 7 to 9, the skin will appear pink like a mild sunburn. This will fade over the next few weeks. Patients may camouflage the pink skin with foundation and return to work and social activities.
• The skin should be moisturised four times daily and the skin cleansed twice daily
• Make-up and sunscreen may be applied approximately 1 week after the treatment
• Avoid excessive heat & harsh skin products for the first 2 weeks after the procedure.
• A precautionary oral or topical antibiotic may be prescribed by the doctor.
• A special skin care regimen will be prescribed by you MD Cosmedical Solutions doctor to protect, soothe, and further accentuate your Fraxel Laser treatment results.

Avoid direct sun exposure during the healing process and for at least 4 weeks after treatment. Wearing sunscreen of SPF 30 or 50 twice daily is important. Wearing sunglasses and wide brimmed hats is highly recommended when out in the sun.  Naturally it is important to minimize sun damage in the future to prevent a recurrence of the same condition.

In the rare case of possible skin infection, please contact the doctor so that an appropriate antibiotic may be prescribed.