Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Fraxel
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
Pricing
- Upper East SideStarting at $1,100 per treatment
- GreenvaleStarting at $1,100 per treatment
- BoulderStarting at $1,100 per treatment
Fraxel is a fractional laser. It treats thousands of tiny columns of skin at a time and leaves the skin around them untouched, to support healing and collagen remodeling.
This page covers Fraxel Dual, a non-ablative laser, meaning it works beneath the surface without removing the top layer of skin. It is usually done as a series with a few days of downtime. For deeper resurfacing, see Fraxel Re:pair.
What it treats
- Sun damage and brown spots
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scars and surgical scars
- Uneven texture and enlarged pores
- The face, neck, chest and hands
What to expect
How to prepare
Avoid tanning and direct sun for at least two weeks before treatment. Stop retinoids a few days before unless your provider tells you otherwise. If you get cold sores, we may give you medicine to take before your visit.
During the treatment
Numbing cream is applied for about an hour first. The laser is passed over the skin, and cooling air keeps you comfortable. The skin will feel warm, like a sunburn, for a few hours after.
After the treatment
Expect redness and swelling for 2 to 3 days. Over the next week the skin may look bronzed and feel rough as it flakes. Use gentle skincare, moisturizer and sunscreen every day.
Results
Skin looks brighter and smoother within a few weeks. Collagen keeps building for several months. Fraxel is usually done as a series of 3 to 5 treatments spaced a few weeks apart.
Where it is offered
Fraxel Q&A
Does Fraxel hurt?
Numbing cream is applied first. Most people feel heat and a prickling sensation during treatment, and warmth like a sunburn for a few hours after.
How is Fraxel different from Fraxel Re:pair?
Fraxel Dual works beneath the surface, has a few days of downtime and is done as a series. Fraxel Re:pair removes tiny columns of skin, is ablative, needs more recovery and is often a single treatment.
Is Fraxel safe for my skin type?
Fraxel Dual can be used on many skin types with the right settings. Burns, infection, pigment changes and scarring are possible. Your provider will assess whether it is appropriate for you.
How do I protect my results?
Wear sunscreen every day and avoid tanning. Many people come back for a maintenance treatment once a year.
Who performs this treatment
Dustin Marks, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Upper East Side
Emma Newman, PA-C
Physician assistant · Upper East Side
Leah Aminov, PA-C
Physician assistant · Greenvale
Arielle Ades, DNP, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Francesca Raedel, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Jennifer Telgener, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder