Fraxel laser is a treatment that creates microscopic wounds in the skin to promote regeneration.
Therefore, the results of the treatment are largely determined by ‘management during the recovery process’ rather than the laser itself.
If you manage it wrongly
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pigmentation
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Persistent red marks
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delayed recovery
Aftercare is as important as the procedure itself, as the same problems can arise.
Basic structure of post-Fraxel treatment care
Fraxel post-treatment care is easy to understand if you follow the flow below.
Wound protection → Maintain regeneration → Minimize irritation → Prevent pigmentation
Based on this criteria, cleansing, cream, sun protection, and scab care are decided.
From immediately after the procedure to washing your face
On the day of the procedure
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It is common to avoid washing your face
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There is a possibility of irritation as there are micro-wounds on the skin surface.
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In many cases, final care has already been completed at the hospital.
From the next day
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Gentle cleansing with a mild cleanser
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If you need to wash your face on the same day due to circumstances,
→ It is important to use a mild cleanser and not rub it.
Regenerating Cream vs. Moisturizing Cream: Which Should You Use?
The key criterion is not 'moisturization' but wound protection.
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Moisturizing cream: for moisturizing purposes
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Regeneration Cream: For protecting damaged skin
Because the skin immediately after Fraxel is closer to 'skin with micro-wounds' rather than 'dry skin', regenerative creams are mentioned first.
When and how to block UV rays?
When it comes to UV protection after Fraxel, timing is most important.
Before the scab settles
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Sunscreen itself can be irritating
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Care focused on regenerative cream
After the scab forms
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Use only inorganic sunscreen
After the scab has completely fallen off
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UV protection is especially important for 1-2 months.
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Even if you spend most of your time indoors, you need UV protection.
📌 This is because the skin tends to produce pigments during the wound healing process → when exposed to UV rays.
Is it really necessary to use Duoderm?
The use of Duoderm is an area where the judgment of each medical professional may vary.
General opinion
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The principle of Fraxel is
→ Making the wound smaller and inducing rapid regeneration -
Therefore, it is not necessary for general Fraxel treatment.
The realistic limitations of Duoderm
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Inconvenience in daily life
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Difficulty applying makeup
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Difficult to continue using after repeated treatments
but,
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May be necessary for very strong Fraxel treatments
The key is “All Fraxels = Duoderm is not required.”
Management points by symptom
🔴 Red flag
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Duration varies greatly depending on the type of laser
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Fraxel without puncture: Short-lasting
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CO₂ Fraxel: Redness may remain after removal
It is important to share with the medical staff in advance 'how much you can tolerate' before the procedure.
💧 Dryness/tightness
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More common with CO₂ Fraxel
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Use plenty of regeneration cream
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Additional treatments with strong stimulation are not recommended.
🤏 Crusts & Itchiness
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The scab will remain for about 10 days
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Itching is a common reaction during the regeneration process.
caution
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Keep the sticker on for as long as possible
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Do not rub or forcefully remove with your hands ❌
Makeup and Return to Daily Life
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BB cream may be used immediately after the procedure.
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After the peel, there is no problem with daily makeup.
step,
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Heavy makeup + strong cleansing can damage your skin cells.
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The key is to manage it as lightly and gently as possible.
Why do side effects occur?
Most redness or pigmentation problems after Fraxel are related to the 'intensity of treatment energy' rather than 'lack of aftercare'.
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In cases where the scar is severe → In some cases, the use of strong energy may be unavoidable.
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In such cases, temporary marks may remain → but they often disappear over time.
As a result The goal of management is not 'complete non-stimulation' but 'not to interfere with recovery'.
See everything at once
Fraxel Post-Treatment Key Summary
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Washing: Same day ❌ → From the next day, hypoallergenic
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Cream: Prioritize regenerating cream over moisturizing cream
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UV rays: especially important after the scab forms
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Tag: Absolutely no forced removal
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Side effects: The intensity of the procedure is more important than the management.
This article is informative content that summarizes the most frequently asked questions about post-Fraxel treatment care.
The management method may vary depending on the individual's skin condition and the intensity of the treatment, and it is important to make the final decision based on the guidance of the medical staff who performed the treatment.