Chemical Peel Vs. Fraxel Laser for Facial Rejuvenation?

Both TCA chemical peel and Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing are excellent options for reversal of prior sun damage, i.e. diminishing future risk of skin cancer. However, Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing will afford more stimulation of collagen and tightening vs. TCA chemical peel. Both treatments may result in transient post-inflammatory redness or pigmentation, particularly for ethnic skin. If reversal of sun damage is the priority, TCA chemical peel offers the best value. If facial rejuvenation is the priority, Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing may be preferable.

 I haven’t encountered any studies that have demonstrated long-term negative effects with Fraxel. I have been using Fraxel Re:Pair, which is a CO2 ablative laser, plus the gentler Fraxel Re:Pair and Fraxel Dual for many years and have had terrific results. Re:Pair needs only one treatment, but you will have a reddened face for a couple of weeks. Re:Store and Dual have no significant downtime, but you will probably need more than one treatment; three is the norm.Chemical peels are also great to resurface the skin, but at 45 you probably would benefit from additional collagen and elastin. While chemical peels will stimulate the production of some new collagen, it’s not to the same degree that occurs with Fraxel. Fraxel creates microwounds in the skin that trigge the body’s healing response, including the production of new collagen and elastin that plump up your skin and strengthen it. These effects can last up to 7 years. Be sure to consult a board-certified dermatologist who has experience with both Fraxel and chemical peels so that you can learn about the benefits of both and choose the one you’re most comfortable with and that will give you the results you want.

I believe the SmartXide Fractional CO2 laser is the best option for those patients who have lighter skin types.  I prep patients with Melarase creams prior to laser, if indicated. Raffy Karamanoukian, Los Angeles