Acne Treatment before & after photos
92%
13 reviews
Worth It Rating Our index shows the percentage of community members saying this was "Worth it". See cosmetic treatment rankings
Acne Treatment Cost $200 average cost

Will Fraxel Re:pair Clear Acne on Asian Skin?

Hi, I'm an asian male, between a 3 to a 4 on the Fitzpatrick scale. I have acne scarring as a result of the accutane I went on a couple of years ago. I have had seven fraxel re:store treatments in attempts to heal my scarring, but the results have been minimal. I have a few depressed boxcar scars and some rolling scars mainly on my cheeks, but I don't think I have any icepicks.

I am heading in for my 8th re:store treatment in a week or two. My doctor has offered the re:pair to me, but since he has never actually tried the re:pair laser before, I am a bit concerned. To me, hope seems to be dwindling as the days go by. I need to know if I should give the re:pair a shot or try any other options, whether it be temporary or permanent.

Since I have asian skin, the hyperpigmentation concern is a big one for me. Will fraxel re:pair work for me?

Asked 40 months ago by Hernis
Sort 3 expert answers by:
+4

Keep hyperpigmentation in mind with Fraxel for Asian skin

I have done asian skin for acne scars with the Fraxel re:pair (See my photos). Hyperpigmentation can occur with asian skin but keep in mind, it is usually easily controlled if treated quickly and aggressively. It is usually not permanent. Preventative measures by applying hydroquinones before and after will minimize your chances of hyperpigmentation. Steve Weiner, MD Facial Plastic Surgeon Destin, Florida
Steven F. Weiner, MD
Pensacola Facial Plastic Surgeon
+3

No, it won't. You have learned the hard way that acne scarring isn't usually helped by lasers

Having used lasers ranging from the older CO2 to the newer Fraxel erbium:glass and Fraxel re:pair, I can state emphatically that acne scars such as you are describing don't usually respond in any meaningful way to these lasers. That is why I turn down more patients than I accept when they come in for laser treatment of acne scars. The bad news is that you have undergone 8 procedures and still haven't had improvement. The even worse news is that you are about to go back to the same... more
Joel Schlessinger, MD
Omaha Dermatologist
+2

Asian Skin Acne Scarring and Fraxel re:pair

Hi Hernis, Fraxel re:pair should work for you given your description of your skin.  I agree with Dr. Weiner that you should use hydroquinones before and after your treatment to minimize the chances of PIH.  Good luck and be well. Dr. P
Michael A. Persky, MD
Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon
Use of this website and the posting of any reviews or other content on this website constitutes acceptance of the RealSelf® Terms of Service. The material on this site is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a qualified health care provider. © 2011 RealSelf, Inc. All rights reserved.