How Many Days After Fraxel Do I Need to be Strategic about Applying Sunblock?

Question

Hi, May you pls advise on how many days one needs to continue applying the sunblock cream after performing the Fraxel Laser?? Also, when can one start applying Retine A after performing Fraxel Laser??

Lawrence Kass, MD · Answer

After a fractional laser procedure, I think waiting 7 days before using sunblock and Retin A would be reasonable.

Vivek Bansal, MD · Answer

Sunblock needs to be part of your daily regimen indefinitely, and Retin-A can be used after 10-14 days or longer if you are not resolved.  The redness should be gone or nearly gone.  If you test a small area, your body will tell  you when are ready.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

The idea of Fraxel laser resurfacing is to either remove sun damage or reverse the effects of aging on the skin.  Everyone knows that the worst thing for your skin is the sun!  It is important to always use sunscreen to protect your skin, especially after Fraxel.  Depending on your skin sensitivity, I advise waiting two weeks to one month after Fraxel to re-start Retin-A after treatment.

Edward Szachowicz, MD, PhD · Answer

Fraxel laser skin resurfacing helps to reverse the effects of aging of the skin by building new collagen. Ultraviolet light, esp., UVA accelerates the aging changes, so I ask my patients to protect with sunblock daily, regardless of any laser treatment.

	Studies have shown that Retin-A used before and starting back after the Fraxel benefits healing, new collagen production, and controls the pigment better than without Retin-A. I usually start my patients back on Retin-A after a week following Fraxel restore, but too much, too soon can be irritating. So return to the Retin-A slowly, and monitor the progress.

Grant Stevens, MD · Answer

You should use sunscreen EVERYDAY, even if it is cloudy outside UV rays penetrate even through windows.  As for getting back to using Retin-A, you may start back after 5 to 7 days.

	Hope this helps.

	Dr. Grant Stevens

How Many Days After Fraxel Do I Need to be Strategic about Applying Sunblock?

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How Many Days After Fraxel Do I Need to be Strategic about Applying Sunblock?

Answers (7)

Answer: Fraxel & Retin-A/Sunblock

Answer: Fraxel & Retin-A/Sunblock

Answer: Sunscreen Post Fraxel...

Answer: Sunscreen Post Fraxel...

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.