Integrated Dermatology Group of Reston

Fraxel Northern Virginia

Fraxel for acne scars in Northern Virginia is a safe and effective way that patients can diminish scar appearance and achieve a smooth and clear complexion without surgery or downtime.

There’s nothing worse than waking up to a breakout, especially before a big event or special occasion.

However, with proper attention, these pimples usually resolve without issue. But in the event that they don’t, they can leave a permanent mark in the form of acne scars.

Here’s what you need to know about Fraxel for acne scars in Northern Virginia should you decide to undergo this non-invasive procedure.

How Do Acne Scars Form?

Acne scars can present as slightly raised or indented areas of skin that occur when breakouts are left untreated and/or don’t heal properly.

As a result, patients may experience small, deep acne scars (ice pick scars), broader acne scars (boxcar scars), or shallow, indented acne scars (rolling scars).

How Can Fraxel Repair Scars and Resurface Damaged Skin?

Fraxel is a non-ablative laser treatment that precisely delivers fractionated energy to acne scars. In doing so, it creates microscopic injuries in the skin that initiate a wound healing response and stimulate new collagen and elastin.

All of these factors produce skin remodeling and allow Fraxel to repair acne scars from the inside out.

How Often is Fraxel for Acne Scars Recommended?

Fraxel for acne scars is recommended as a series of 4-6 treatments, spaced a month apart.

Prior to each session, a topical anesthetic is applied to the treatment area and, once it’s been adequately numbed, the Fraxel process can begin. It involves gliding the laser handpiece over the skin in vertical strokes and feels similar to a light rubber band snap.

The procedure takes approximately 20 minutes, and patients can resume all normal activities immediately after.

What to Expect After Treatment?

While Fraxel for acne scars is considered a zero-downtime treatment, individuals may note mild redness and swelling 1-2 days post-procedure.

They should also avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks and wear a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least a 30 SPF between treatments, like our Vidaderma Tinted Physical Suncreen.

For additional information about Fraxel for acne scars in Northern Virginia, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation with board certified dermatologist, Dr. Morgana Colombo.