You probably need neither of these, but could use botox and IPL

Joel Schlessinger, MD answers: Does Fraxel Repair require fewer treatments than Fraxel Restore?

I have been hesitating between fraxel restore and repair. After reading some feedback, I have noticed that many people do not get remarkable results with the old version of fraxel. Now, with the new version of fraxel repair, I have become aware that the risk of getting scars and dark spots on the face is higher.

It has been almost 6 months of researching any procedure that will finally help my skin but I am still so confused! I am a 27 years old, latin (light tan), with minimun wrinkles under my eyes and small but many acne scars spread all over my face, some hyperpigmentation from sun exposure and most importantly, medium size pores next to my nose. Bottom line, I want to improve the overall look of my skin.

Would any Fraxel lasers help me? Please, I would appreciate if somebody can help me decide. I live in south Florida, and I am also in need of a good doctor that will perform this procedure. Thank you!


Joel Schlessinger, MD
13 months ago

Fraxel restore is not really all that amazing.  We have one that hasn't been used for about 2 years.  Now, the repair is pretty good, but it is best for women in their 40s who have crepey skin or major wrinkles.  My guess is that you don't have these yet and can get by with intense pulsed light treatments, botox and maybe getting on the Obagi system.

Don't fall prey to a doctor trying to talk you into a major procedure.  Laser procedures that are invasive such as the Fraxel repair are not usually good for people with Latin American type of skin and can cause all sorts of problems. 

Make sure to go to a good dermatologist in your area or in Miami to see what they say and whatever you do, avoid medispas like the plague as they usually have little or no medical oversight and can end up causing problems that will be impossible or very difficult to reverse. 

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