Fractional Laser Skin Treatment

Fractional laser treatments are becoming increasingly popular in dermatology clinics around the country. Even the most cared for skin will show signs of aging, and over time, its color and texture will change. Fractional lasers, also known as fraxel treatments, can lessen the appearance of aging on your face, neck, chest, arms, and hands. The result is a brighter, more youthful complexion.



Fraxel laser treatments are based on “fractional” skin repair. Treating only a fraction of your skin’s surface at a time, the laser provides optimal results without the potential risks and side effects of the other resurfacing lasers. The fraxel laser cuts down on required healing time, and fractional laser resurfacing treatments can blend the appearance of uneven skin tone. This will improve your skin’s texture, including fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars.

Fraxel treatments at Minneapolis, Edina, and Plymouth's Zel Skin involve the use of a handheld laser device to improve skin quality by triggering collagen production.Fraxel treatments at Minneapolis, Edina, and Plymouth's Zel Skin involve the use of a handheld laser device to improve skin quality by triggering collagen production.
For Fraxel treatments in Minneapolis, Edina, and Plymouth, the Zel Skin team helps patients address signs of aging by moving a specialized laser handpiece directly over the target area. The laser energy creates numerous tiny columns in the skin, each of which prompts cell turnover and collagen generation in the surrounding tissue. The ultimate result is a smoother, more youthful looking surface.

What to Expect from Fraxel Treatments

Each fractional laser resurfacing session lasts about 2 hours, including prep time, and it is designed to target between 15 percent and 20 percent of your skin’s surface. Anywhere from one to six sessions are required, depending on the desired results and the type of Fraxel laser used. Most treatments are spaced three to eight weeks apart to allow the skin to heal and to target various parts of the hair growth cycle.

The procedure is performed with a topical anesthetic and pain medication. The pain is often compared to the sensation of a bee sting, but if you are worried about your personal pain tolerance, talk to your dermatologist. In some cases, patients may be provided with antibiotic and anti-viral medications to prevent possible infection. Your skin will appear pinkish and swollen for several days after the procedure. Some of the fractionated lasers produce pinpoint bleeding for 1-2 days, but your doctor will warn you if this is a risk. Most patients can wear makeup 5-7 days after treatment, and you’ll notice the improvement in three to six months.

Fraxel Treatment Side Effects

Fraxel laser treatment side effects are typically minimal. Some patients may experience redness, swelling, and/or itching. In very rare cases, patients may develop an infection, and some people may see a temporary change in their skin color, also known as hyperpigmentation. Fractional laser resurfacing can also pose a slight risk of scarring, but this is very rare.

Your Skin's too Important to Leave to Chance

Zel Skin & Laser Specialists was the first clinic in Minnesota to offer fractionated laser treatments. Our medically-trained staff has extensive experience using this Fraxel laser technology. We are a dermatologist-owned, dermatologist directed skin care clinic, led by Dr. Brian Zelickson.  Our goal is to help you look good and feel good too by working with you to achieve and maintain your skin’s best appearance.

Contact us to schedule a consultation today at our Edina location.

*Results may vary per patient. Services vary by location.

Before / After

*Results may vary per patient.