What's the REAL down-time for Fraxel?
I'm thinking about getting Fraxel done for acne scars on my cheeks. My dermatologist recommended it, and it looks like as long as I take several precautions, the results should outweigh the pain/discomfort. However, I'm nervous about the downtime. I am a high school teacher, so it's impossible for me to just hide in a cubicle or take a week off to recover from the procedure. I'm also nervous about the redness, swelling, and peeling many people have reported. I don't want people asking me, "What happened?!?!" The best I could do during the school year is either a 3-day weekend or wait until Christmas break. Any advice?
Comment on this
Comments
Write a comment on this question
Fraxel Laser: 297 reviews
55% said it was worth it
Fraxel Laser before & after photos
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.
unregistered guest
16 Sep 2007
I had one treatment of Fraxel 3 weeks ago and i still don't like the effect on my face.. it's made my skin look brownish ..i wonder if this was from the sun although i applied SPF 30 whenever i was outside..anyone knows how long this dark color would remain? and the acne scarring doesn't look anybetter yet.
unregistered guest
22 Sep 2007
I have had 4 fraxel treatments. After the first, I always made sure that I would not have to leave the house for 3 days. After 3 days, I was still slightly swollen, and I looked like I had a little tan, and I was a bit "peely" looking... but, most people that didn't know me, would not have noticed.
unregistered guest
8 Sep 2007
I am on day two post op from fraxel. I have large h2o bags under my eyes. Any suggestions to reduce this? or please share your experience on how soon this will disapate.
1 post
3 Oct 2009
I just had my 5th fraxel yesturday. I had really bad scars on my face and I have nothing but good things to say about this procedure. There are those who need more treatments than others and the downside is the redness, peeling and feels like a sunburn but looks like a tan after 3-5 days later. you will have the healthy glow look. Eventually the tan look goes away and your face is just smoother than before. Unlike facials, this treatment is permanent and its quite expensive but its worth it. If your female you can get away with putting on powder makeup after 3-5 days. No one will notice the redness. I recommend it to everyone.
2 posts
18 Oct 2009
I would definitely wait until a 3 -day weekend to do this if i were you. i think each person reacts differently. I just got mine done Friday at 1pm ... it's sunday now and my face has just started peeling dramatically when i woke up. I've been putting moisturizer on it once every hour to minimize the peeling but it is very significant. I couldnt imagine trying to put make up on top of all this dead skin peeling off. I did take off work tomorrow just in case and i'm glad i did.....it looks like my skin will be ready to apply make on by tuesday morning. It is easiest to cover up the fraxel with makeup the first 2 days after treatment because the face hasnt started peeling yet. however, once the peeling starts...its pretty noticable. It's pretty important to coordinate these types of treatments around work schedules...just in case. At least do ure first on a 3 day, then see how u heal from that one. There are a bunch of three day weekends starting jan...that would be best.
2 posts
18 Oct 2009
i would definitely wait until a 3 -day weekend to do this if i were you. i think each person reacts differently. I just got mine done Friday at 1pm ... it's sunday now and my face has just started peeling dramatically when i woke up. I've been putting moisturizer on it once every hour to minimize the peeling but it is very significant. I couldnt imagine trying to put make up on top of all this dead skin peeling off. I did take off work tomorrow just in case and i'm glad i did.....it looks like my skin will be ready to apply make on by tuesday morning. It is easiest to cover up the fraxel with makeup the first 2 days after treatment because the face hasnt started peeling yet. however, once the peeling starts...its pretty noticable.