While there are now several versions of Fraxel lasers, for the purposes of this article we are referring to the original Fraxel laser, the Fraxel Restore.
First, a bit of history about the Fraxel laser. When it debuted, Fraxel took the aesthetic world by storm and changed the face of laser treatments thereafter. This is because Fraxel pioneered fractional laser technology, where only portions of the skin are treated. Fractional lasers deliver laser energy to a percentage of treated skin in spaced-apart columns as opposed to full coverage over treated skin. Sparing surrounding skin minimizes discomfort and reduces downtime. It also helps reduce the risk of negative side effects from overheating the skin due to laser energy. While sometimes full coverage is necessary (e.g. when treating over areas of pigmentation), longer wavelength lasers that primarily “resurface” benefit from fractional coverage for rejuvenation purposes and to make treatments suitable for a wider range of skin types.
Because the original Fraxel is a 1550nm wavelength laser, it has a depth penetration of ~300-1400 microns in the skin. It works by using heat to create microcolumns in the skin, which kickstarts the wound healing process. This leads to collagen remodeling and neogenesis, and can result in improved texture and tone.
LaseMD Ultra is a fractional 1927nm wavelength laser. It works very similarly to Fraxel in the sense that it also uses heat to create microcolumns that rejuvenate the skin. The main difference between the two lasers is the wavelength: 1927nm vs. 1550nm. 1927nm lasers target the most superficial ~200 microns of the skin. Each wavelength has a different affinity for water, hence the different depth penetrations. This means that LaseMD Ultra targets the surface of the skin, while Fraxel goes a bit deeper and targets the dermis.
Treating at different depths will result in different results because the skin is comprised of several layers. However, since these two wavelengths are complementary due to their similar delivery, they can often be done together.
The second iteration of Fraxel, the Fraxel Dual, actually features both wavelengths in one device. While this is a great option for laser treatments, we separate 1550nm and 1927nm treatments at DSC by having discrete Fraxel Restore and LaseMD Ultra devices, respectively. Having the two wavelengths in separate devices allows greater control and precision with each, and allows for greater freedom in treatment. The LaseMD Ultra is the most powerful 1927nm laser on the market, and offers a wider range of usages than in the Fraxel Dual, where the two wavelengths are delivered simultaneously.
If you are interested in Fraxel laser treatments or LaseMD Ultra laser treatments in Los Angeles, give DSC a call! We offer both treatments separately and combined for synergistic results. Our expert providers can help you determine the best course of treatment.
DSC Laser & Skin Care Center
www.dscbeauty.com
(626)285-0800
info@dscbeauty.com
889 S. San Gabriel Blvd, San Gabriel, CA 91776
