Fraxel Pre and Post Care

Apply a broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) physical (contains zinc or titanium) SPF 30+ sunscreen daily to treatment areas.
Let us know if you have a history of cold sores, prior use of Accutane, or are prone to breakouts. Do not have any laser or other light-based treatments until your Fraxel series is complete unless approved by our office.

Arrive without heavy creams or makeup on treatment area if possible. Sunscreen is okay.
Allow at least 1.5 hours for your appointment. You will be numbing for 1 hour so feel free to bring entertainment or work.

Shave the treatment area if necessary. Facial hair should be neatly trimmed or cleanshaven. Completely okay if you wish to not, but please understand the price will remain the same.

Swelling: You will notice swelling. The most swelling will be the morning after treatment, particularly under the eyes. This can last for a couple of days. To minimize swelling, you can apply cold compresses and sleep elevated the first night. You can also take over the counter antihistamine to help reduce the swelling.
Redness: You will be red after treatment. The redness could last for up to a week or longer after treatment, but you can apply makeup to cover this.

Peeling, Flaking or Dry Skin: Your skin may be itchy, dry, and scaly with a sandpaper/coffee ground texture. This is normal; it is the process of new skin regeneration. Avoid scratching or exfoliating the skin. You can take over the counter antihistamine to reduce any itching.
Bronzing or Dark Spots: Some bronzing of the skin and darkening of spots may occur after treatment. These will shed.

Raw Areas: You may develop areas of raw skin. Keep these areas moist with Aquaphor or Vaseline and do not pick them. They will heal quickly on their own.
Papules or Pimples: It is normal to develop small white bumps on the chin or jawline post-treatment. If this occurs let us know and we can prescribe doxycycline to take. While on doxycycline, ensure you take it with food, water, do not lie down for 30 min after taking, and wear sun protection.

Avoid Excessive Heat: For 2 days post-treatment avoid partaking in activities that heat up your skin such as going in a hot tub/jacuzzi/sauna, or strenuous exercise.
Skin Care Products: All skincare products should be non-irritating and non-clogging for the first week. You may wash and moisturize your face as normal using these gentle products. Please avoid using harsh topicals such as retinols/retinoids, glycolic acid, scrubs, bleaching creams (hydroquinone), and toners until your skin is healed.

Sunscreen: Avoid direct sunlight for 4-6 weeks after treatment. Wear a broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB) physical (containing at least 5% zinc or titanium) SPF 30+ sunscreen every day during the healing process and after treatment to protect your investment.
Vinegar Solution (optional): Pour about 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar into a bottle of bottled water, shake it up, and then apply to the face with gauze or a cotton pad 2 times per day until your skin is healed.

Pre/post treat (if applicable): If you were specifically advised to pre/post treat for fraxel, you can start your routine come 1 week after treatment once your skin is healed.