Fraxel Laser: Stories

I have had a total of 2 Fraxel treatments. The first time I wasn't prepared for how much it would hurt, and I had to call in sick to work the next day because I looked like a burn victim. The second time I was prepared for redness and the pain so I scheduled the treatment for a Friday. They upped the strength on the second pass and wow was I swollen all weekend! My poor boyfriend had to keep bringing me fresh ice packs for my red pumpkin face. They also say redheads are more sensitive to pain, and in my case that's definitely true. By the third day the pain was gone, and I peeled for about 2 more days and then I was all better.

I'm 38, and I had Fraxel done to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that came as a result of too much sun exposure as a kid, especially as fair skinned as I am. The spa I went to had all nurses on staff to perform the procedures but they are all supervised by a staff of 3 doctors. People on here will tell you to only go to a doctor for this, but since his nurses usually perform the treatment anyway why not get the benefit of the spa too?

It's been about 2 months since my 2nd (and last) treatment and I really do see an improvement in the texture and color of my skin, it's very even and smooth.

Was it worth the pain? In retrospect, yes, since I'm always in search of perfect skin. But my boyfriend said if I decide to do another one of those, I am on my own :)