Repair more effective, fewer treatments

The fraxel repair is a fractionated CO2 laser and the original Fraxel Restore is a lighter more gentle laser. Because of this, the Repair works faster with fewer treatments ( usually 1-2) but has more downtime. The recovery is usually 5 days of redness, mild swelling versus 1-2 days of mild redness with the Restore or comparable lasers. The more gentle Restore would normally require about 5 treatments for significant acne scars.

Both are good options for obtaining improvement in scars, but you should also consider the following. Acne scars come in many different shapes and types. When I treat a patient with scars I usually perform combinations of treatments to treat the different types of scars. These can include surgical removal, excision, of scars, focal treatment with TCA and then laser resurfacing. Fillers such as Radiesse can then be used to fill any residual scars.

Make sure you see a doctor who treats a lot of acne scars and who offers you a combination approach so that you can maximize your results.

Hi Kiara,

Light Hispanic skin is the darkest skin type that can be safely treated with Fraxel re:pair.  You would need to avoid that nice South Florida sunshine for at least 4 months after your treatment, using sun block, hats, avoidance.  If patients want a dramatic result and can afford the 5 to 7 days of downtime, then I prefer Fraxel re:pair.  If patients prefer a less aggressive therapy with nearly no downtime, then a  Fraxel re:store series is the choice. 

Your risk of dark spots is real unless you religiously avoid the sun and use protection.  The risk of scarring is minimal if the treatment is performed properly.  Choose your physician carefully.

Good luck and be well.

Dr. P

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