Fraxel Fall 2013 Newsletter

Summer is over and all of the sunspots and damage from this summer as well as previous summers, need to be addressed. Advanced Dermatology is one of few offices in the Chicagoland area that offers the newest technology in Fraxel non-ablative rejuvenation. The Fraxel Dual incorporates Fraxel Restore as well as Fraxel Thulium.  The Fraxel Restore is the ideal treatment for those who want to address scarring (including acne scarring), fine lines, or wrinkles. It is a non-ablative treatment that can significantly improve skin texture, pore size and overall skin appearance with minimal downtime. For scarring expect 3-5 treatments for maximum improvement.  The Fraxel Thulium is a more superficial treatment ideal for the superficial pigment caused by years of UV exposure. It can also be used as a treatment for actinic keratosis or precancerous lesions. Not only can you give your skin a more even tone and brightness, but this technology can also help prevent skin cancers.  The Fraxel Dual is your perfect post summer treatment. By combining two different wavelengths, we can address both the superficial and deeper pigments as well as fine lines caused by UV damage. Patients can expect significant reductions in brown spots in 1-2 treatments as well as improvement in their overall texture and appearance. These treatments can be utilized not only on the face, but also on the neck, chest, arms and hands. Before and after treatment with the Fraxel it is of utmost importance that an optimal skin care regimen be part of your daily routine. Incorporating the Core 4 as well as a topical lightener will improve your overall Fraxel results.

The Core 4 consists of:
1. Sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher and a zinc percentage of 5% or higher. It is essential when evaluating sunscreens to read the active ingredients. Zinc should be the main block. Some of my favorites are the Elta UV Clear 46 ($31) which is great for those with sensitive skin and tend to break out. Another is Neocutis Journée SPF 30 ($130), which incorporates a moisturizer, sunscreen and growth factor.
2. Growth factors help stimulate your underlying collagen and help plump up the skin. It is a perfect adjunct to Fraxel to assist in softening fine lines. There are human growth factors and plant derived growth factors. One of the most potent human growth factors is SkinMedica TNS Essential Serum ($260). When used twice daily most patients notice an overall improvement of their skin in as little as 6 weeks.
3. Antioxidants such as SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic ($153) help us protect against free radicals caused by ultra violet rays. It combines Vitamin C, E, and Ferulic acid, thus acting as a potent antioxidant and also plumping up collagen.
4. Exfoliants help speed up the cellular turnover of your skin thus improving texture and fine lines. skinfo® Vital Tea Regenerate Serums ($65 – $81 depending on strength) will allow you to start off slowly building up strength over time. Thus your skin is able to tolerate the exfoliants without over irritation that retinoids often cause.