What it is
Fraxel 1550 treatment in Korea is a type of non-ablative fractional laser therapy designed to improve acne scars, wrinkles, and overall skin quality with minimal downtime. The Fraxel 1550 nm wavelength penetrates deeply into the skin without removing the top layer, creating thousands of microscopic treatment zones (MTZs). Each MTZ triggers the body’s natural healing response, stimulating new collagen production while leaving surrounding tissue intact for quicker recovery.
Unlike ablative lasers like fractional CO₂ or Erbium:YAG, which remove layers of skin, Fraxel 1550 is non-ablative, meaning it heats tissue without vaporizing it. This makes it safer for patients who want improvement with less risk and shorter healing times.
Skin concerns treated with Fraxel 1550 include:
- → Acne scars (rolling, boxcar, and some ice-pick scars)
- → Fine lines and wrinkles
- → Sun damage and pigmentation
- → Uneven skin tone and enlarged pores
- → Stretch marks and surgical scars
In Korea, Fraxel 1550 is especially popular among patients who want to treat scars and aging signs while maintaining a fast-paced lifestyle, since recovery is shorter compared to ablative lasers.
Why it’s Done
Fraxel 1550 is performed for both cosmetic and medical reasons, with strong psychological benefits as well.
➤ Medical Reasons
- • To treat acne and surgical scars without aggressive surgery
- • To repair photoaging and sun-damaged skin
- • To reduce risk of long-term pigmentation from sun damage
➤ Cosmetic Reasons
- • Smooths out wrinkles and fine lines
- • Reduces the appearance of scars and enlarged pores
- • Brightens skin tone and creates a healthier glow
- • Delivers natural results with minimal disruption to daily life
➤ Psychological Benefits
- • Boosts confidence by visibly improving scars and aging signs
- • Reduces anxiety related to skin imperfections
- • Appeals to patients seeking subtle yet noticeable results without the stigma of surgery
👉 In Korea, Fraxel 1550 is considered an excellent “lunchtime laser” option because it delivers visible results with shorter downtime.
Alternatives
Fraxel 1550 is a great option, but other treatments may be more suitable depending on scar type or patient preference.
➤ Other Laser Alternatives
- • Fractional CO₂ laser → deeper resurfacing for severe scars, longer downtime
- • Erbium:YAG resurfacing → gentler, precise resurfacing for mild scars
- • Pico laser → better for pigmentation than texture
- • Fraxel 1927 nm → treats superficial pigmentation and texture issues
➤ Non-Laser Procedural Alternatives
- • Subcision → for rolling scars caused by fibrotic bands
- • TCA CROSS → focal chemical peel for ice-pick scars
- • Punch excision/elevation → surgical removal of deep scars
- • Microneedling or RF microneedling → collagen stimulation without lasers
- • Dermal fillers → temporary improvement for depressed scars
➤ Topical Alternatives
- • Retinoids, vitamin C, and niacinamide → gradual improvement but less dramatic
- • Chemical peels (glycolic, salicylic, TCA) → mild resurfacing for pigmentation and shallow scars
⚠️ Fraxel 1550 is ideal for patients seeking moderate to significant improvement without long downtime.
Preparation
Proper preparation ensures safe and effective results with Fraxel 1550 in Korea.
➤ General Preparation
- • Consultation with a dermatologist to confirm suitability
- • Discontinue retinoids and exfoliants 1–2 weeks before treatment
- • Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 2–4 weeks prior
- • Stop blood-thinning medications (if instructed) to reduce bruising risk
- • Keep skin hydrated before treatment
➤ Specific Preparation in Korean Clinics
- • Topical numbing cream is applied 30–60 minutes before
- • Cooling systems are often used during treatment for comfort
- • Some clinics prescribe pre-treatment pigmentation creams (like hydroquinone) for darker skin types to reduce risks of post-inflammatory pigmentation
How it’s Done
Fraxel 1550 is typically performed in a dermatology clinic and takes 20–45 minutes, depending on the treatment area.
Step-by-step process:
- → Cleansing & anesthesia: The face is cleansed and numbing cream applied.
- → Laser application: The Fraxel device delivers 1550 nm beams into the skin, creating microscopic columns of thermal injury.
- → Controlled heating: The energy penetrates deep into the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin remodeling.
- → Healthy tissue support: Surrounding untreated skin accelerates healing.
- → Aftercare application: Cooling masks or soothing serums are applied immediately post-procedure.
Combination therapies in Korea:
- • Fraxel 1550 + Subcision → for mixed acne scars
- • Fraxel 1550 + PRP or Rejuran Healer → reduces downtime and enhances healing
- • Fraxel 1550 + Skin Boosters → improves hydration and radiance
Recovery
Recovery from Fraxel 1550 is shorter than ablative lasers but still requires proper care.
➤ Immediate Recovery (1–3 Days)
- • Redness, mild swelling, and a sunburn-like sensation
- • Skin may feel rough or gritty
➤ Short-Term Recovery (1–2 Weeks)
- • Peeling or bronzing effect as old skin sheds
- • Redness fades gradually
- • Most patients return to work within 2–3 days, makeup allowed after 48–72 hours
➤ Long-Term Care
- • Daily use of sunscreen (SPF 30–50) is mandatory
- • Avoid direct sun exposure for several weeks
- • Use gentle cleansers and fragrance-free moisturizers
- • Results improve over 2–6 months as collagen continues remodeling
Complications
Fraxel 1550 is very safe, especially in experienced Korean clinics, but side effects can occur.
➤ Common Side Effects
- • Redness, swelling, and mild peeling
- • Temporary dryness or tightness
➤ Moderate Risks
- • Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation (more common in darker skin)
- • Prolonged redness in sensitive patients
- • Acne flare-ups due to irritation
➤ Rare Complications
- • Infection if aftercare is neglected
- • Scarring (very rare)
- • Persistent textural irregularities
👉 Korean dermatologists minimize risks through precise energy settings, tailored treatment plans, and advanced post-laser care.
Treatment Options in Korea
Fraxel 1550 is widely offered in Korean dermatology clinics and often included in multi-step scar and anti-aging programs.
➤ Popular Fraxel 1550 Programs in Korea
- • Acne Scar Packages → multiple Fraxel sessions with subcision or PRP
- • Anti-Aging Treatments → reduce wrinkles and fine lines while tightening skin
- • Pigmentation & Texture Programs → pair Fraxel with toning or pico lasers
- • Medical Tourism Packages → English-speaking staff, tailored aftercare, and skincare products included
➤ Why Patients Choose Korea
- → Advanced Fraxel devices with precise calibration
- → Highly skilled dermatologists specializing in scar revision and rejuvenation
- → Affordable compared to Western countries despite superior quality
- → Combination treatment culture: Fraxel is rarely done alone, maximizing results
