Fraxel Restore or Repair for acne scars after PIH from Fractional CO2?

I am Chinese and got significant PIH from Fractional CO2 (with unknown machine) done in May this year. Luckily, the PIH is almost recovered now, and so I am considering Fraxel Restore or Fraxel Repair. The major concern for me is NOT to get any PIH again during acne scar treatment from Fraxel. My doctor told me that doing 5-8 treatments for Fraxel Restore equal to one Fraxel Repair, and Restore has less chance for PIH. Any advice?

3 answers to “Fraxel Restore or Repair for acne...”

A: Fraxel re:store and re:pair

Ronald Shelton, MD

Although the re:store does have less risk of creating hyperpigmentation in your skin than the re:pair, there can never be a guarantee that it won’t happen. Some patients continue to derive excellent scar treatment results from re:store and have many more than 8 treatments. This continual treatment which... more

A: Fraxel restore or repair for Acne Scars in Asian Patient with History of PIH

Michael A. Persky, MD

Hi ABC, Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is an increased risk in Asian patients treated with fractionated CO2 for acne scars. As you have already experienced, the PIH will eventually fade over time.  What you need to decide is whether putting up with the PIH is worth the improvement in skin tone and... more

A: Don't do it! Lasers are terrible for PIH and this is a scam. Use Obagi instead

Joel Schlessinger, MD

Lasers are not a good idea for pigmentation in Asian skin or skin of color in general.  If your doctor is suggesting this as a treatment after you have already suffered pigmentation from another laser you need to RUN, not WALK away from this doctor's office. Sadly, you are a very common example of people... more

Post your question

Fraxel Laser before & after photos

Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.