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If you have started researching ways to improve skin texture, soften lines, or treat acne scars, you have likely come across Fraxel. This laser treatment is widely discussed, yet many patients still have questions about how it actually works and whether it is worth considering. At Derm & Rejuvenation Institute of Santa Monica, Dr Tanya Kormeili believes that informed patients make the best decisions. This guide is designed to clearly explain Fraxel in a calm, educational way so you can decide if it fits your skin goals.
What Fraxel Is and Why It Is Different
Fraxel is a non surgical laser treatment that improves skin quality by working below the surface rather than only on the top layer. It uses fractional laser technology, which means it treats thousands of tiny areas of skin while leaving surrounding tissue untouched. This approach allows the skin to heal more efficiently while still delivering meaningful results.
Unlike treatments that simply exfoliate or temporarily tighten the skin, Fraxel is designed to stimulate your body’s natural repair process. That is why it is often recommended for concerns such as fine lines, sun damage, enlarged pores, and acne scarring.
How Fraxel Stimulates Collagen
To understand how Fraxel works, it helps to understand collagen. Collagen is the structural protein that keeps skin firm, smooth, and resilient. As we age, collagen production slows, leading to wrinkles, thinning skin, and uneven texture.
Fraxel delivers controlled laser energy into the deeper layers of the skin. This creates microscopic treatment zones that trigger the body’s natural healing response. As the skin repairs itself, new collagen is produced, gradually improving tone, texture, and firmness over time.
Because Fraxel targets only a fraction of the skin at once, the surrounding untreated areas help speed up recovery while supporting healthier skin renewal.
What Fraxel Treats Most Effectively
Fraxel is commonly chosen by patients who want visible improvement without surgery. It is often used to address several concerns at once, which is one reason it remains popular.
Fraxel may help improve the appearance of
- Fine lines and early wrinkles
- Acne scars and other textural irregularities
- Sun damage and uneven pigmentation
- Enlarged pores and rough skin texture
Dr Tanya Kormeili carefully evaluates each patient’s skin to determine whether Fraxel is the most appropriate option or if another laser or device may be better suited.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery after Fraxel varies depending on the treatment intensity and your individual skin type. Most patients experience redness, swelling, and a sunburn like sensation for several days. Mild flaking or bronzing of the skin may follow as old damaged skin sheds.
Many people return to normal activities within a few days, although it can take several weeks for collagen remodeling to fully develop. Improvements continue to appear gradually over the next few months, which is why patience is important when evaluating results.
Is Fraxel Worth It
For patients looking for long term skin improvement rather than a quick fix, Fraxel can be a valuable investment. Results are not instant, but they are designed to be natural and progressive. Dr Tanya Kormeili emphasizes realistic expectations and customized treatment plans to ensure safety and satisfaction.
If you would like to learn more about Fraxel and whether it is right for your skin, you can explore additional details on our Fraxel laser treatment page.
Schedule a Consultation in Santa Monica
Choosing a laser treatment is a personal decision that deserves expert guidance. At Derm & Rejuvenation Institute of Santa Monica, all Fraxel treatments are physician led and tailored to your skin’s unique needs.
If you are ready to take the next step, we invite you to fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with Dr Tanya Kormeili and receive personalized recommendations for your skin.
Dr. Tanya Kormeili is a nationally recognized, board-certified dermatologist and Clinical Professor of Dermatology at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine. With prestigious training and extensive experience in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, she is renowned for her expertise in skin cancer treatment, laser and surgical procedures, and advanced aesthetic care. An accomplished researcher and frequent speaker, Dr. Kormeili has contributed groundbreaking work to dermatology literature and earned numerous international awards for her clinical excellence. Dedicated to educating patients and advancing the field, she combines cutting-edge science with a personalized approach to help every patient achieve healthy, radiant skin.