Question 1

What is Frax 1550™ and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Frax 1550™ is a non-ablative fractional laser handpiece on the Candela Nordlys® platform. It delivers microscopic columns of 1550nm laser energy into the dermis, creating controlled micro-injuries that stimulate collagen and elastin production without removing the skin surface. The result is smoother texture, reduced fine lines, and improved acne scarring with minimal downtime.

Question 2

What skin concerns does Frax 1550™ treat?

Accepted Answer

Frax 1550™ is effective for skin resurfacing, acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture, enlarged pores, and overall skin rejuvenation. It is suitable for the face, neck, décolletage, and hands.

Question 3

How many Frax 1550™ sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

Most patients see meaningful improvement after 3–5 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart. The exact number depends on the severity of the concern, skin type, and individual healing response. A personalized plan is developed during your consultation.

Question 4

When will I see results from Frax 1550™?

Accepted Answer

Initial improvements in texture and tone are often visible within 1–2 weeks as the skin heals. Collagen remodeling continues for 3–6 months after each session, with cumulative results building over a full treatment series.

Question 5

Is Frax 1550™ safe for all skin types?

Accepted Answer

The Frax 1550™ non-ablative wavelength is generally well-tolerated across a range of Fitzpatrick skin types. At 86INK, treatment parameters are individualized based on your skin type and concern. A thorough consultation is performed before every treatment.

Question 6

What should I expect after a Frax 1550™ treatment?

Accepted Answer

Mild redness, warmth, and a sandpaper-like texture are common for 2–5 days post-treatment. Pinpoint bronzing (tiny dark dots) may appear and flake off within 5–7 days as the skin renews. Most patients return to normal activities the next day.

Question 7

What should I avoid after Frax 1550™?

Accepted Answer

Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and harsh exfoliants for at least 2 weeks. Do not use retinoids, AHAs, or BHAs until the skin has fully healed (typically 5–7 days). Avoid heat environments such as saunas and hot tubs for 48–72 hours.

Question 8

What skincare products can I use after treatment?

Accepted Answer

Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and a bland moisturizer for the first week. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning — this is non-negotiable after any laser treatment. Your provider will give you a specific post-care protocol at your appointment.

Question 9

How long does downtime last after Frax 1550™?

Accepted Answer

Frax 1550™ is a non-ablative treatment, so downtime is minimal compared to ablative lasers. Most patients experience 2–5 days of mild redness and texture changes. Social downtime is typically 1–3 days depending on individual skin sensitivity.

Question 10

Can I wear makeup after Frax 1550™?

Accepted Answer

It is best to avoid makeup for the first 24–48 hours to allow the skin to breathe and begin healing. After that, mineral-based makeup is generally tolerated. Avoid heavy or occlusive formulas until the skin has fully settled.

Question 11

What is the pinpoint bronzing after Frax 1550™ and how long does it last?

Accepted Answer

Pinpoint bronzing refers to the tiny dark dots (microscopic treatment zones) that appear on the skin's surface after Frax 1550™. These represent the microscopic columns of laser energy delivered into the dermis. They typically flake off naturally within 5–7 days as the skin renews. Do not scrub or exfoliate — allow them to shed on their own to avoid irritation.

Question 12

Is it normal for my skin to feel rough or sandpaper-like after Frax 1550™?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a rough, sandpaper-like texture in the first 2–5 days is a normal part of the healing process. This is caused by the microscopic treatment zones as they heal and shed. Keep the skin well-moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer and avoid any physical exfoliation. The texture smooths out as the skin renews.

Question 13

When can I use retinol or tretinoin after Frax 1550™?

Accepted Answer

Wait at least 7–10 days before reintroducing retinol or tretinoin after Frax 1550™, and up to 14 days for clients with sensitive skin or those who received a higher-energy treatment. When you resume, start with a lower frequency (every other night) and monitor for irritation. Your 86INK provider will give you a personalized reintroduction timeline.

Question 14

How important is SPF after Frax 1550™?

Accepted Answer

SPF is non-negotiable after any laser treatment. The skin is significantly more photosensitive during the healing phase, and unprotected UV exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation — especially in medium to darker skin tones. Wear a broad-spectrum mineral SPF 30+ every day without exception, reapply every 2 hours outdoors, and wear a wide-brim hat when in direct sunlight.

Question 15

What signs after Frax 1550™ should prompt me to contact 86INK?

Accepted Answer

Mild redness, warmth, and pinpoint bronzing are expected. Contact 86INK at (918) 212-4747 if you experience: significant swelling or blistering, redness or warmth that worsens after 48 hours, signs of infection (increasing redness, pus, fever), or a rash suggesting an allergic reaction. These are uncommon with non-ablative treatments but warrant prompt evaluation.

Question 16

How long do Frax 1550™ results last?

Accepted Answer

Results from a full treatment series typically last 12–18 months. Because Frax 1550™ stimulates your body's own collagen production, the improvements continue to develop for several months after the final session. Annual maintenance treatments help sustain results.

Question 17

How often should I have maintenance treatments?

Accepted Answer

After completing an initial series, most patients benefit from 1–2 maintenance sessions per year to preserve collagen levels and continue improving skin quality. Your provider will recommend a schedule based on your skin's response.

Question 18

Can Frax 1550™ be combined with other treatments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Frax 1550™ pairs well with IPL (Ellipse IPL™) as part of the Light & Bright™ combination treatment, which addresses both pigmentation and texture in a single session. It can also be combined with neurotoxin injections or medical microneedling on a staggered schedule.

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Frax 1550™ Fractional Laser

What Is Frax 1550™?

Conditions Treated

Acne Scarring

Fine Lines & Wrinkles

Skin Texture

Skin Laxity

Surgical Scars

Overall Rejuvenation

Light & Bright™ — IPL + Frax in One Session

Frax 1550™ FAQ

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