Transform Your Skin with Precision Fraxel Laser Technology
If you’re struggling with fine lines, acne scars, sun damage, or uneven skin tone, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans seek skin rejuvenation treatments each year to restore a youthful, radiant appearance. At Prince Plastic Surgery in Little Rock and Fayetteville, Arkansas, we offer Fraxel laser skin resurfacing—a non-ablative fractional laser treatment that delivers visible results with minimal downtime.
Dr. Melanie Prince, a board-certified plastic surgeon, specializes in customized Fraxel treatments designed to address your specific skin concerns while respecting your lifestyle and recovery preferences. Whether you’re dealing with age spots, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, or signs of aging, Fraxel offers a clinically proven solution that stimulates your skin’s natural healing process and collagen production.
What Is Fraxel Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Fraxel is a non-ablative fractional laser treatment that uses advanced wavelength technology to precisely target damaged skin cells without removing the entire outer layer of skin. Unlike ablative lasers that vaporize the skin’s surface, Fraxel creates thousands of microscopic treatment zones, leaving surrounding skin intact. This fractional approach allows your skin to heal faster while still achieving dramatic rejuvenation results.1
The Fraxel system uses dual wavelength options—1550nm and 1927nm—allowing Dr. Prince to customize your treatment based on your specific skin concerns, skin type, and desired downtime. This precision makes Fraxel suitable for most skin tones and types, addressing concerns that other laser treatments may not safely treat.
How Fraxel Works: The Science Behind the Results
During your Fraxel treatment, the laser delivers focused energy deep into the dermal layer of your skin. This controlled thermal injury stimulates your body’s natural wound-healing response, triggering collagen remodeling and new skin cell production.2 Over the following weeks and months, this process results in:
- Smoother, more refined skin texture
- Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Faded acne scars and depressed scars
- Improved skin tone and reduced hyperpigmentation
- Diminished brown spots, age spots, and sun damage
- Enhanced skin firmness and elasticity through collagen production
Dr. Prince was highly recommended to me, and she definitely did not disappoint.
JG
She did amazing work! She and her staff are awesome, sweet, gentle, and professional.
I always felt that I was taken care of and Dr. Prince and her staff at my best interests
and health at heart. I’m happy with the work she did and feel transformed.
Dr. Prince is amazing and I highly recommend her!
Fraxel Treatment Areas & Skin Concerns
Fraxel laser skin resurfacing effectively treats a wide range of facial and body concerns:
Facial Concerns:
- Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, and forehead
- Acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Sun damage and photoaging
- Brown spots and age spots
- Melasma and other pigmentation disorders
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Enlarged pores
- Discoloration and hyperpigmentation
Body Areas:
- Chest and décolletage sun damage
- Hand rejuvenation
- Surgical scars
Your Fraxel Treatment Experience: What to Expect
Before Your Treatment
Preparation is key to maximizing results and minimizing complications.
During your consultation at our Little Rock or Fayetteville office, our team will:
- Assess your skin type, tone, and specific concerns
- Review your medical history and current medications
- Discuss realistic expectations and potential outcomes
- Explain the customized treatment plan tailored to your goals
- Answer all your questions about the procedure and recovery
- Review detailed informed consent forms covering risks, benefits, and realistic outcomes
Pre-treatment instructions typically include:
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 30 days prior to treatment
- Discontinue retinoids, vitamin C serums, and exfoliating products 2 weeks before
- Avoid self-tanning products
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy skincare routine
- Inform Dr. Prince of any recent chemical peels or microneedling treatments
- Avoid certain medications (NSAIDs, blood thinners) as directed
During Your Fraxel Treatment
Your Fraxel session typically lasts 20-30 minutes, depending on the treatment area size and intensity. Here’s what happens:
Post-Treatment Soothing: After the laser passes, a soothing serum and broad-spectrum sunscreen are applied to protect your newly treated skin.
Numbing Cream Application: A topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area 30-60 minutes before the procedure to ensure your comfort.
Protective Eyewear: You’ll wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser energy.
Laser Application: Our team uses the Fraxel handpiece to deliver precise laser pulses across the treatment area. You may feel a warm sensation or mild prickling, but the numbing cream minimizes discomfort. Many patients describe the sensation as similar to a light sunburn or mild pinching.
Cooling: The Fraxel system includes integrated cooling technology to protect the skin’s surface and enhance comfort during treatment.
After Your Treatment: Detailed Recovery Timeline
One of Fraxel’s greatest advantages is its minimal downtime compared to ablative laser treatments. However, understanding the realistic recovery timeline helps you plan accordingly.
Immediate (Day 0-1):
- Mild to moderate redness and warmth (similar to a sunburn)
- Slight swelling, particularly around the eyes
- Skin may feel tight or sensitive
- Mild itching or tingling sensation
- Activity: Rest, avoid strenuous exercise, stay cool
- Skincare: Gentle cleansing, apply prescribed healing serum, use SPF 30+ sunscreen
Days 2-3:
- Redness begins to fade but may still be noticeable
- Mild swelling continues
- Skin may begin to flake or peel slightly
- Most patients can return to light activities and work with makeup coverage
- Activity: Light activities okay; avoid gym, saunas, hot yoga
- Skincare: Continue gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sunscreen application
- Makeup: Mineral makeup acceptable; avoid heavy foundations
Days 4-7:
- Visible peeling and flaking as old skin cells shed
- Redness continues to diminish
- New, fresh skin emerges beneath the peeling layer
- This is the most visible “downtime” phase—many patients prefer to stay home or use heavy makeup
- Activity: Avoid strenuous exercise and excessive sweating; light walking acceptable
- Skincare: Do NOT pick or peel skin manually—let it shed naturally; continue moisturizing and sunscreen
- Makeup: Can use full makeup if needed for work/events
Weeks 2-4:
- Peeling subsides significantly
- Redness fades to a light pink or returns to normal skin tone
- Skin texture noticeably improves
- Collagen remodeling continues beneath the surface
- Results continue to improve over the following weeks
- Activity: Resume normal exercise and activities
- Skincare: Continue sun protection; introduce gentle retinoids if desired (consult Dr. Prince)
Weeks 4-12:
- Full results become apparent as collagen production peaks
- Skin appears smoother, brighter, and more youthful
- Fine lines soften, scars fade, and pigmentation improves
- Results continue to improve for up to 3 months post-treatment
- Skincare: Maintain consistent sun protection and healthy skincare routine
Managing Downtime
Social Downtime vs. Actual Downtime:
- Actual downtime (unable to perform normal activities): 1-2 days
- Social downtime (visible redness/peeling): 5-7 days for standard treatments; 3-5 days for lighter settings
Our team customizes your Fraxel intensity based on your schedule and downtime tolerance. If you have an important event coming up, we can adjust settings for a gentler treatment with less visible peeling, though results may require additional sessions.
Comprehensive Post-Treatment Care Instructions
Skincare Routine:
- Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers (avoid hot water)
- Apply prescribed healing serums and moisturizers twice daily
- Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily (non-negotiable)
Activity Restrictions:
- Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 30 days
- Skip makeup for the first 24 hours; use mineral makeup thereafter
- Avoid hot water, saunas, steam rooms, and strenuous exercise for 1 week
- Do not pick or peel skin manually—let it shed naturally
- Avoid swimming and chlorinated pools for 1 week
Healing Support:
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support healing
- Take prescribed or recommended pain relievers if needed (avoid NSAIDs unless directed)
- Sleep with head elevated to minimize swelling
- Contact Dr. Prince immediately if you experience signs of infection, severe pain, or unusual symptoms
Fraxel Results: What You’ll See
Fraxel delivers progressive, natural-looking results that improve over time. Most patients notice:
Immediate improvements (visible within 1-2 weeks):
- Brighter, more radiant complexion
- Smoother skin texture
- Reduced appearance of fine lines
Intermediate improvements (4-8 weeks):
- Significant softening of fine lines and wrinkles
- Noticeable fading of acne scars and depressed scars
- Improved skin tone and reduced hyperpigmentation
- Diminished brown spots and age spots
- Enhanced skin firmness
Long-term improvements (3-6 months):
- Continued collagen remodeling and skin tightening
- Maximum improvement in scar appearance
- Sustained reduction in pigmentation irregularities
- Overall more youthful, refreshed appearance
How Many Treatments Do You Need?
The number of Fraxel sessions depends on your specific concerns and desired results:
- Fine lines and mild sun damage: 1-2 treatments
- Moderate acne scars and pigmentation: 2-4 treatments
- Severe scarring or extensive sun damage: 3-4 treatments
- Maintenance treatments: 1 session annually to maintain results
Treatments are typically spaced 4-6 weeks apart to allow adequate healing and collagen remodeling between sessions. Our team will recommend a personalized treatment plan during your consultation.
Fraxel vs. Other Laser & Skin Resurfacing Options
Understanding how Fraxel compares to other popular treatments helps you make an informed decision.
| Treatment | Type | Downtime | Best For | Skin Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fraxel (1550nm) | Non-ablative fractional | 5-7 days | Fine lines, mild scars, sun damage | Most skin types |
| Fraxel (1927nm) | Non-ablative fractional | 3-5 days | Pigmentation, surface concerns | Most skin types |
| HALO Hybrid Laser | Hybrid (ablative + non-ablative) | 7-10 days | Moderate to severe aging, scars | Lighter skin types |
| ProFractional CO2 | Ablative fractional | 10-14 days | Deep wrinkles, severe scars | Lighter skin types |
| Chemical Peels | Chemical exfoliation | 3-7 days | Mild sun damage, texture | Varies by peel strength |
| Microneedling | Mechanical collagen induction | 2-3 days | Mild scars, texture, fine lines | All skin types |
Why Choose Fraxel?
- Minimal downtime compared to ablative lasers
- Safe for most skin types and tones
- Customizable intensity for your schedule
- Proven results with low complication rates
- Can be combined with other treatments for enhanced results
Understanding Potential Side Effects & Complications
While Fraxel is generally safe, it’s important to understand potential side effects and how they’re managed:
Common Side Effects (Expected):
- Redness and swelling (typically resolves within 1-2 weeks)
- Peeling and flaking (typically resolves within 1-2 weeks)
- Mild discomfort or itching (managed with prescribed products)
- Temporary dryness (managed with moisturizers)
Less Common Side Effects:
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (especially in darker skin tones; typically resolves within 3-6 months)
- Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation (rare; typically resolves within 6-12 months)
- Mild infection (prevented through proper aftercare; treated with antibiotics if occurs)
- Temporary acne flare-up (typically resolves within 1-2 weeks)
Rare Complications:
- Severe scarring (extremely rare with proper technique and aftercare)
- Persistent redness or rosacea (rare; managed with additional treatments)
- Allergic reaction to topical products (rare; managed by switching products)
When to Contact Dr. Prince:
- Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus, fever)
- Severe pain not relieved by prescribed pain relievers
- Blistering or severe burns
- Unusual or persistent symptoms
- Concerns about healing or results
Our team prioritizes patient safety and will discuss all potential risks during your consultation and informed consent process.
Is Fraxel Right for You? Ideal Candidates
Fraxel is suitable for most adults seeking skin rejuvenation, but ideal candidates typically:
- Have realistic expectations about results and recovery
- Are in good overall health
- Have specific skin concerns (scars, sun damage, pigmentation, fine lines)
- Are willing to follow pre- and post-treatment care instructions
- Can commit to sun protection during healing
- Are not pregnant or nursing
- Do not have active skin infections or severe acne
- Have not had recent chemical peels or microneedling (typically wait 2 weeks)
Who Should Avoid Fraxel:
- Patients with active herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections (prophylactic antivirals recommended if history of HSV)
- Those taking isotretinoin (Accutane) or within 6 months of completing treatment (Accutane increases skin fragility and impairs healing; laser treatment during or shortly after use increases risk of severe scarring)
- Patients with severe keloid-prone skin
- Those with certain medications that increase photosensitivity
- Individuals with unrealistic expectations
Our team will thoroughly evaluate your candidacy during your consultation and discuss any concerns or contraindications.
Why Choose Dr. Melanie Prince for Fraxel in Little Rock & Fayetteville?
Board-Certified Expertise & Credentials
Dr. Melanie Prince, MD is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABMS®), the gold standard in plastic surgery certification. Her credentials include:
- Medical Degree: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Medicine, 2006
- Plastic Surgery Residency: 6-year integrated program, University of South Florida (USF), Tampa, completed 2011
- Board Certification: American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABMS®)
Experience & Treatment Volume
With over 15 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, Dr. Prince brings extensive expertise in advanced laser technologies and skin rejuvenation.
Unique Positioning
Dr. Prince is the only female board-certified plastic surgeon in the Little Rock area, bringing a unique perspective and personalized approach to aesthetic medicine. She has been recognized as a “Top Doctor” and “Best Plastic Surgeon“ by her peers and patients.
Personalized Approach
Rather than a one-size-fits-all treatment, Our team customizes every Fraxel session to your unique skin type, concerns, and lifestyle. We adjust laser intensity, wavelength selection, and treatment frequency based on your specific goals and skin condition.
Comprehensive Aesthetic Services
As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Prince offers a full spectrum of non-surgical and surgical aesthetic treatments. This allows her to recommend combination approaches and comprehensive facial rejuvenation plans that address multiple concerns simultaneously.
Patient-Centered Care
Dr. Prince and her team prioritize patient comfort, education, and satisfaction. From your initial consultation through post-treatment follow-up, you’ll receive personalized attention and clear communication about what to expect.
Patient Satisfaction Ratings
Dr. Prince’s patients consistently rate her highly across multiple platforms:
- RealSelf: 4.8/5 stars (53 verified reviews)
- US News Health: 5.0/5 stars (50 verified reviews)
- Yelp: 5.0/5 stars (verified reviews)
Publications & Research
Dr. Prince has contributed to peer-reviewed medical literature, demonstrating her commitment to advancing the field of plastic surgery:
- Published Article: “OnabotulinumtoxinA for the treatment of a ‘gummy smile'” – Surgery journal, published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Research Impact: 64 citations in PubMed, indicating significant contribution to medical knowledge
-
Where can I find Fraxel laser skin resurfacing in Little Rock and Fayetteville?
At Prince Plastic Surgery, we offer customized Fraxel laser treatments at our Little Rock office, conveniently located at 8201 Cantrell Road, Suite 150. Dr. Melanie Prince, the only female board-certified plastic surgeon in the Little Rock area, specializes in precision Fraxel treatments tailored to your unique skin concerns and lifestyle. We also serve patients from Fayetteville and throughout Arkansas. Our concierge services accommodate out-of-town patients, and we’re committed to delivering exceptional results with personalized care. Call us at 501-225-3333 to schedule your consultation.
-
Can I combine Fraxel with other treatments?
Absolutely. Fraxel pairs beautifully with complementary treatments including microneedling, chemical peels, BOTOX, and dermal fillers. These combination approaches address multiple skin concerns—from dynamic wrinkles and volume loss to pigmentation and texture—for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. During your consultation, our team will recommend the ideal treatment plan based on your specific goals and skin condition. Many patients benefit from layering treatments over several months for progressive, natural-looking results.
-
Does Fraxel hurt?
Most patients describe Fraxel as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. The topical numbing cream applied before treatment significantly minimizes discomfort, and the integrated cooling technology protects your skin’s surface. You may feel a warm sensation or mild prickling during the procedure, but it’s generally well-tolerated. If you have a low pain tolerance, our team can apply additional numbing cream or discuss optional light sedation during your consultation.
-
How long do Fraxel results last?
Fraxel results are long-lasting but not permanent. Most patients enjoy significant improvement for 12-18 months following a series of treatments. Maintenance treatments—typically one session annually—help sustain results and continue collagen remodeling. Results vary based on your age, skin quality, sun exposure, and skincare habits. Consistent sun protection and a healthy skincare routine extend the longevity of your results.
-
Can Fraxel treat all skin types?
Yes. Fraxel’s dual wavelength technology and customizable settings make it safe and effective for all skin types and tones, including darker skin. Unlike some ablative lasers that carry higher risk of complications in darker skin, Fraxel’s non-ablative fractional approach minimizes the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Our team will customize your treatment settings based on your specific skin type to ensure optimal safety and results.
-
When will I see results from Fraxel?
You’ll notice initial improvements—brighter, smoother skin—within 1-2 weeks as the skin heals and new cells emerge. More significant improvements in fine lines, scars, and pigmentation become apparent over 4-8 weeks as collagen remodeling progresses. Maximum results typically appear 3-6 months after treatment as collagen continues to remodel and strengthen. This progressive improvement is one reason why Fraxel delivers such natural-looking, long-lasting results.
-
Is there downtime with Fraxel?
Yes, but it’s minimal compared to ablative laser treatments. Most patients experience 5-7 days of visible redness and peeling (social downtime) but can return to light activities and work within 1-2 days with makeup coverage. The intensity of downtime depends on your Fraxel settings—lighter treatments have less visible peeling but may require additional sessions. Our team customizes your treatment intensity based on your schedule and downtime tolerance.
Ready to Transform Your Skin?
If you’re ready to address fine lines, acne scars, sun damage, or other skin concerns with a proven, customizable treatment, Fraxel laser skin resurfacing at Prince Plastic Surgery may be the ideal solution. Dr. Melanie Prince and her team are committed to delivering exceptional results with personalized care and attention to detail.
Schedule Your Fraxel Consultation Today
- Phone: 501-225-3333
- Address: 8201 Cantrell Road, Suite 150, Little Rock, AR 72227
- Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Contact us to learn more about how Fraxel can help you achieve the youthful, radiant skin you deserve.
Medical Disclaimer
This webpage is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The information provided is based on general medical knowledge and Dr. Melanie Prince’s professional expertise. Individual results vary, and not all patients are suitable candidates for Fraxel laser skin resurfacing.
Before undergoing any treatment, you should:
- Consult with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon
- Discuss your medical history, medications, and skin conditions
- Review all risks, benefits, and realistic expectations
- Ask questions and ensure you fully understand the procedure
Our team will conduct a thorough evaluation during your consultation to determine if Fraxel is appropriate for your specific situation.
Sources
- Solta Medical. Fraxel Patient Information. Available: https://www.fraxel.com/. Accessed October 23, 2025.
- Mayo Clinic. Laser Resurfacing. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/laser-resurfacing/about/pac-20385114 Accessed October 23, 2025.
Dr. Melanie Prince has either authored or reviewed and approved this content.