Comparing Acne Scar Laser Treatments

asked 3 years ago by scared38 in Asia
Latest answer by Ronald Shelton, MD
Question viewed 1,870 times
Tags: acne scars, comparison

Please compare Fraxel CO2 with Fraxel restore (erbium resurfacing) and laserbrasion (dermabrasion and CO2 resurfacing combo) for acne scars. If cost was not an issue, I'd get Fraxel CO2, but Erbium and laserbrasion are much less expensive, and I'm wondering how the downtime, risks, and benefits compare.

2 answers to Comparing Acne Scar Laser Treatments

Have an expert evaluate your skin first

Fraxel Re:store resurfacing is usually done a multiple number of times so the final cost can be greater than one dermabrasion or CO2 treatment. The latter two can cause marked thinning and whitening of the treated skin but Fraxel maintains the good skin texture and color. Fraxel Re:pair CO2 is usually done as one treatment and probably can’t give as good results as multiple Fraxel Re:store treaments. If the RE:pair is done at high energy settings there might be a lightening of skin... more

Ronald Shelton, MD
Manhattan Dermatologist

Be careful when mixing modalities

Some of the worst complications I have seen is when half measures are combined. In general, erbium:YAG ablative lasers do not go deep enough, nor coagulate the deeper skin levels to improve acne scars long term. They are better for pigment. Dermabrasion with a wire brush is an "oldie but goodie" but ONLY if done by a real pro. CO2 resurfacing with only two modalities: Deep FX and Fraxel Repair have the depth to effect acne scars with one session. Fraxel Restore (which is an erbium... more

Mary Lupo, MD
New Orleans Dermatologist

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Comparing Acne Scar Laser Treatments

Have an expert evaluate your skin first

Be careful when mixing modalities

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