Fraxel Laser: Q&A

Ask a Question

Fraxel Laser for Extensive Facial Actinic Keratosis?

I find the use of topical treatments (Efudix) etc quite intrusive and protracted in terms of repair. I am considering Fraxel Laser, but am not convinced its the right treatment for actinic keratosis. But is patently good for photo damage. SA dermatologists do not appear to have sufficient product experience to endorse with real confidence. Will Fraxel Laser work for this condition?

Tags:

face bumps sun damage

Comment on this

4 Doctor Answers | Asked by Baz in South Africa

Doctor Answers (4)
Community Comments (0)

Fraxel probably not strong enough

Efudex and CO2 laser skin resurfacing have been the gold standard for treatment of actinic keratosis. We offer fraxel laser treatments in our clinic, but I am not convinced that they are adequate for the treatment of AC. We also offer DOT laser treatments. At their highest setting I believe they would come close to the CO2 laser's effectiveness, but again the data isn not there.

Aldara, Caroc, or Active FX

If you want to do a laser for actinic keratosis, do an ablative treatment. Fractional or traditional CO2, or dermabrasion are the most effective options. Fraxel Restore is non-ablative and not that effective for AK. Fraxel Repair would be an option, as it is ablative. Non-procedural options are Aldara and Caroc. Your board certified dermatologist can best guide you regarding the pros and cons of your options. Good luck and remember your sunscreen to prevent new actinic keratoses.... more

PDT and Solaraze

There is much more evidence regarding the role of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of actnic keratoses than there is for Fraxel. In this treatment, a liquid is applied to the skin, Levulan, and then the patient is asked to sit in a waiting room where reading material and the gentle music enhance the PDT experience. After a half hour wait, the patient sits in front of a Blu-light. It is important to wear a sunscreen home and not go in the sun for two days. What is happening is... more

Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD

7 reviews

Virginia Beach Dermatologist

You might also like...

Real Stories

Fraxel for Melasma -Estero, FL

I purchased a Groupon for a Fraxel treatment with the hopes that it might improve my...

Before + After Photos

View 142 Fraxel Laser photos

Actinic keratoses and fractionated laser treatments?

Hi Baz, I'm going to assume that when you mention the "Fraxel" laser, you are referring to the Fraxel Re:pair (which is a fractionated "ablative" laser). . . The Fraxel Re:store is a fractionated nonablative laser, and, as such, does not treat the upper layers of the skin from which actinic keratoses arise. Since the Fraxel is "fractionated," it is not treating/ablating 100% of the surface area of the epidermis (upper layer of skin)... more

Doctors will not see your comments on their answers. If you'd like to follow up, please go here to ask another question.

Comments (0)

Ask a Question

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.