Fraxel Laser Treatment Cardiff
Fraxel laser in Cardiff at Beauty Advance uses advanced fractional laser technology to deliver deep skin resurfacing and structural repair across multiple layers of the skin. Unlike surface-level treatments, the i-Pixel fractional laser works beneath the surface to rebuild skin architecture and improve texture, scarring, and overall skin quality.
Fraxel is typically recommended when lighter treatments such as IPL or LED are no longer delivering sufficient results.
How Does It Work
The i-Pixel fractional laser creates thousands of controlled microchannels within the skin, triggering a natural regeneration response while leaving surrounding tissue intact to support a more controlled healing response. By working across multiple layers, it targets deeper structural irregularities that cannot be addressed with surface-level treatments alone.
What to Expect
A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment begins. The laser handpiece passes over the skin in controlled passes, taking 20 to 30 minutes for a full face. Most clients feel a warm, prickling sensation during the session. Skin appears red and mildly swollen immediately after, resolving within three to five days, with most clients returning to normal activities within a week.
Results and Recovery
Fraxel works as a progressive treatment course. A standard programme includes three to five sessions spaced four to six weeks apart, with visible improvements developing as the skin rebuilds over time.
Fraxel laser is designed to address deeper structural skin concerns, including acne scarring, post-acne irregularities, fine lines, enlarged pores, and uneven skin texture.
It is particularly effective in areas where the skin surface has become irregular or where previous treatments have delivered limited improvement.
Recovery after each session typically runs three to five days. Skin appears red and begins to flake as the resurfaced cells shed, after which clarity and texture visibly improve. Scheduling sessions around work or social commitments is straightforward, and most clients plan ahead with their practitioner at the start of their course.
For surface-level pigmentation concerns, pigmentation removal may be recommended first, while Fraxel is used to address deeper structural skin changes.
Is Fraxel Laser Right for You
Fraxel laser suits adults with established skin concerns where non-ablative treatments have reached their limit. Acne scarring, persistent sun damage, and significant textural change all respond well. Most skin types are appropriate, though darker skin tones are assessed individually, given the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
It is not suitable during pregnancy, for active skin infections in the treatment area, or for clients on photosensitising medication. A full skin and medical assessment is completed before any course begins. For a broader overview of available options, visit our anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Fraxel laser sessions will I need in Cardiff?
Most clients at Beauty Advance complete three to five sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart. The exact number depends on the concern being treated. Mild textural improvement or fine line reduction may respond within two to three sessions. Acne scarring, deeper sun damage, or significant resurfacing goals typically require a full course of four to five sessions. Your practitioner will confirm the right programme for your skin at your free consultation.
What is the downtime after the treatment?
Most clients experience redness, mild swelling, and a sensation similar to moderate sunburn for two to three days after each session. Skin begins to peel or flake between days three and five as the resurfaced cells shed. Most clients return to normal activities within five to seven days. We recommend avoiding direct sun exposure, heavy exercise, and active skincare ingredients for at least one week after each session, and daily SPF 50 use is essential throughout the course.
Is Fraxel laser painful?
A topical numbing cream is applied before every session, which significantly reduces discomfort. During treatment, most clients feel a warm, prickling sensation rather than sharp pain. The level of sensation varies depending on the intensity of the treatment and the area being treated. Your practitioner will discuss the expected sensation and adjust settings appropriately for your comfort and skin goals at each session.
What is the difference between a Fraxel laser and IPL?
IPL uses broad-spectrum light to target specific chromophores such as melanin or haemoglobin, making it highly effective for pigmentation, redness, and vascular concerns. Fraxel laser uses focused fractional energy to resurface the skin and rebuild its underlying structure, making it more effective for texture, scarring, and deeper skin concerns. The two technologies are complementary rather than competing, and many Beauty Advance clients in Cardiff use both within the same programme, depending on their skin goals. Your practitioner will advise on the right approach at your free consultation.
Can I combine it with other treatments?
Yes. Fraxel laser works well as part of a wider skin programme at Beauty Advance. LED light therapy is commonly added after each session to support skin comfort and maintain treatment consistency throughout the course. Pigmentation removal with IPL can be sequenced alongside Fraxel for clients dealing with both surface discolouration and deeper skin quality concerns. Your practitioner will build a combined treatment plan based on your skin assessment and confirm all costs and timelines before any course begins.
At a Glance...
Time: 20 Minutes
Sessions: 3
Results: 1 day
From £45 Per Session
Suitable For...
Fraxel laser is suitable for adults who would like to improve fine lines, uneven tone and texture, acne scarring, sun damage, pigmentation and visible pores, and who want noticeable skin improvement without surgery.
Sessions Required
Most clients benefit from a course of treatments. The exact number of sessions depends on your skin condition, treatment goals and how your skin responds, and will be confirmed at consultation.
Treatment Time
Appointments usually last between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
Recovery Time
There is very little downtime. A small scab may form and typically settles within one to two weeks. You will be advised how to keep the area clean and protected while healing.
Potential Side Effects
Temporary redness, swelling, warmth and sensitivity are common. Light flaking and temporary changes in pigmentation can occasionally occur. All risks and aftercare will be discussed during your consultation.
Time: 45-60 Minutes
Sessions: 1
Results: 1 day
From £49 Per Session
Fraxel laser is a non-invasive, clinician-led skin resurfacing treatment designed to improve skin texture, tone and early signs of ageing by stimulating your skin’s natural repair and collagen production.
It is commonly used to soften fine lines, improve uneven skin tone, refine pores and reduce the appearance of acne scarring and sun damage, while leaving surrounding skin intact.
How Does It Work
Fraxel uses fractional laser technology to create thousands of tiny, controlled treatment zones within the skin. These micro-injuries trigger your body’s natural healing response, encouraging new collagen production and skin renewal, while leaving the surrounding tissue untouched to support faster recovery.
What to Expect
Your practitioner will assess your skin and confirm the most suitable treatment settings for your concerns. A numbing cream is usually applied before treatment to improve comfort. During the procedure, you may feel a warm or prickling sensation as the laser is passed over the skin. After treatment, your skin will feel warm and may appear pink or flushed.
Suitable For...
Fraxel laser is suitable for adults who would like to improve fine lines, uneven tone and texture, acne scarring, sun damage, pigmentation and visible pores, and who want noticeable skin improvement without surgery.
Sessions Required
Most clients benefit from a course of treatments. The exact number of sessions depends on your skin condition, treatment goals and how your skin responds, and will be confirmed at consultation.
Treatment Time
Appointments usually last between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
Recovery Time
There is very little downtime. A small scab may form and typically settles within one to two weeks. You will be advised how to keep the area clean and protected while healing.
Potential Side Effects
Temporary redness, swelling, warmth and sensitivity are common. Light flaking and temporary changes in pigmentation can occasionally occur. All risks and aftercare will be discussed during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a consultation before booking treatment?
Yes. A consultation is required before Fraxel laser treatment so we can assess your skin, confirm suitability and create a personalised plan.
When will I see results?
You may notice brighter, smoother skin within a few weeks, with continued improvement over the following months as new collagen develops.
Do you offer finance or payment plans?
Yes, finance options may be available for certain treatments. Please ask at your consultation for full details.