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Fraxel Laser Treatment

Let's face it, we feel our best when we look it. Getting older is inevitable, but looking better faster is getting easier every day, thanks to quick-healing, targeted-energy skin care treatments. Rediscover a more youthful you with Fraxel Laser Treatment.

Click for a list of Kaiser Permanente locations offering Fraxel Laser Treatment in Northern California.

ABOUT THE PROCEDURE

Featured in the November 2006 issues of InStyle Makeover, Vogue, and O Magazine, Fraxel Laser Treatment is an exciting, nonsurgical, skin resurfacing technique that uses targeted laser light to single out:

• Sun damage and acne scars
• Age spots/brown spots
• Lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes
• Melasma (mask of pregnancy)

The minimally invasive therapy can also be used to treat other areas of the body, including the neck, chest, hands, and arms, as well as stretch marks. To achieve full results, a series of approximately four treatments is recommended.

WHAT RESULTS CAN I EXPECT FROM FRAXEL LASER TREATMENT?

A "fractional" therapy, Fraxel Laser Treatment isolates imperfections while leaving healthy tissue untouched. The procedure promotes the skin's natural healing process, minimizing healing time. New, healthier tissue replaces the old, damaged cells, resulting in a smoother complexion, improved texture, and a more even skin tone. Benefits are achieved with a reduced recovery time when compared with traditional laser skin resurfacing.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT BEFORE AND AFTER TREATMENT?

In most cases, Fraxel Laser Treatment is easily performed in your doctor's office; the procedure takes approximately 30 minutes per area. Prior to treatment, the area of skin to be rejuvenated receives a thorough cleaning, and a topical anesthetic is applied about an hour before the procedure. To accentuate lines that will be treated, an FDA-certified, water-soluble tint, known as OptiGuide Blue, is also applied. If a large area of skin is treated, your doctor will discuss options to minimize any discomfort during the procedure.

Side effects include redness and swelling (which usually resolves within 2-3 days) and dryness, so you should apply a moisturizer following treatment. You might feel a mild sunburn sensation, or notice bronzing and peeling, depending upon both the condition of your skin and the extent of treatment. The OptiGuide Blue solution may leave some blue residue on the skin, particularly on brown spots, but will fade within a few days. The risks of infection or scarring are negligible. It is important to apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater twice daily, as well as to avoid direct sun exposure during the first few months following a Fraxel Laser Treatment.

I'M INTERESTED! WHAT'S MY NEXT STEP?

To determine if you're a good candidate for Fraxel Laser Treatment and to learn more about the procedure, click the link below to find the Kaiser Permanente Cosmetic Services center nearest you, and call today to schedule a consultation.

Services described here are provided on a fee-for-service basis. These services are not provided or covered by Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., and you are financially responsible to pay for them. Clinical services are provided by providers or contractors of The Permanente Medical Group, Inc. Results of services vary among patients and cannot be guaranteed. Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals may receive compensation for providing facilities and/or other support in connection with these services. For specific information about your health plan benefits, please see your Evidence of Coverage.