Fraxel Repair vs Pearl Laser for acne scars?

Which is better for acne scars, Fraxel Re:pair fractional CO2, or the new Pearl fractional laser?

3 answers to “Fraxel Repair vs Pearl Laser for...”

A: Pearl Laser not for acne scars

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD

I use the Pearl laser but not on acne scars. The depth of treatment delivered simply has no effect on depressed scars which are caused by cystic acne. Although I don't use fractionated CO2, I have seen many patients who are dissatisfied with the results. I ocasionally use a conventional CO2, but only in... more

A: Acne Scars, Is Fraxel re:pair or Pearl a Better Treatment?

Michael A. Persky, MD

Hi Truckg, Fractionated CO2 lasers are more effective on acne scarring than non-ablative, superficial lasers such as Pearl.  Fraxel re:pair, Deep FX, mixto, and eCO2 are fractionated CO2 laser technologies.  I have had very good experiences with using Fraxel re:pair on acne scarring. Good luck... more

A: Fractional CO2 will always give more collagen coagulation

Mary Lupo, MD

While there are no definite answers that can be made regarding your specific case, in general, fractional CO2 using RePair, Lumenis Encore Active/Deep FX, and Ellipse Juvia can give more results with fewer treatments due to the better dermal protein coagulation. I have not used other fractional CO2... more

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Comments

Heather Young
unregistered guest

18 Jan 2009

hi, i have been getting fraxel for years. it did wonders on my skin. the only problem is i am 21 and i still get the occasional breakout, and they scar everytime. and the past 2 fraxels i broke out afterwards. don't know why.....

Steven A. Schlosser M.D.
92 posts
23 Dec 2008

Both Pearl and Fraxel give good results for scarring. I recommend Pearl for superficial scarring and Fraxel CO2 for deep scarring. The new Pearl fractional provides significant improvement. The advantage of Pearl is less discomfort and faster recovery and the need to do it only  once or twice. The CO2 laser builds more collagen deeply, but generally requires more treatments with a somewhat longer recovery. Again, I would decide based on depth and extent of scarring and your goals. Have an evauation by  experienced physicians offering both. Good luck.  

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