There is a definite difference between fractional resurfaicng and CO2 laser resurfacing

Scott Trimas, MD answers: Best CO2 laser resurfacing

Is there a difference between the UltraPulse CO2 laser and Fraxel or Pixel lasers?  I'm confused by all the different names and think the doctor will try to sell me on whatever machine he has- without it necessarily being the best for me. How can I know I'm doing the best treatment?


Scott Trimas, MD
2 months ago

There is a definite difference between fractional resurfaicng and CO2 laser resurfacing. The CO2 laser is an excellent treatment option for deeper wrinkles, acne scarring and sun damaged skin. The fractional treatments taken the typical CO2 laser and lower the power density and spread out the beam so some of the skin is not treated and heals faster. The disadvantage is that it does not equal one treatment with the traditional CO2 laser and often is not effective for deeper lines and deeper acne scarring. Also, multiple treatments with a fractionated or Fraxel type of laser is required to achieve the same results of a traditional CO2 laser. However, I do believe it still has a usefullness for patients who have minimal lines and lesser scarring.

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