I decided to do Fraxel for both sun damage and skin tone. I am 45, fair-skinned, freckled and have lived in California my entire life. Over the years I have noticed that it was taking more and more foundation to even out my skin. I had brown patches as well as freckles and was starting to get some wrinkles. I should also mention that I have rosacea. I did the Fraxel on a Tuesday morning and after an hour of numbing cream, I found it to be a little annoying but not painful. The rest of the day felt like I had a sunburn. The next day was the worse - but still not bad. My face was swollen and my skin felt like rough sandpaper. I went to work wearing makeup but really had to spackle it on. It was all downhill after that - everyday better than the next. I am now ten days out and when I look in the mirror, I am truly delighted. My skin tone is totally evened out and I am wearing way less foundation. No more brown spots and freckles are faded. Should have done this a long time ago. Will be doing it again.
Depending on the areas you are treating, lower face, full face, full face, neck and chest a Fraxel treatment can range from $800.- $1500. We see amazing results with this treatment and usually recommend a series of 2-4 depending on the amount of sun damage one has. As with any treatment, it is always best to consult a board certified dermatologist prior to make sure you are an appropriate candidate and I always recommend researching the experience level of your provider. Ask to see before and after pictures or to speak with a patient who has been treated recently so they might share their experience with you.