Fraxel Repair Vs. Pixel Laser - Which Works Better on Acne Scars?

In my opinion, acne scars are a very challenging problem and most patients do poorly with laser treatments. Sometimes, just a visit to a good dermatologist can do more than any laser. The biggest thing that I see when people come in for a laser consult is that they haven't gotten their acne under control. Doing a laser without getting the underlying problem fixed is the worst thing that you can do. Lasers work for a very limited type of acne scarring and usually provide no more than... more

Both the CO2 and Pixel lasers are excellent modalities for acne scarring. I suggest seeing a dermatologist for ACTIVE acne but for the scars, see a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery since reconstruction of scarring is our specialty and we can offer many modalities. Anyone offering less should not be dealing with the problem. If the pits are small and do not require excision, I prefer the Erbium (Pixel) laser since I can regulate the depth with... more

The technology with both lasers is good. They are both ablative devices that poke microholes in the skin to wound/cause healing from the inside out. The treatment outcome depends on the settings used. In the right hands when done correctly you will likely get the results you desire with either device. Evaluate with your cosmetic physician which one would be better for you.

Acne scarring is a very difficult problem to treat, and generally requires mutiple different therapies for best results.  Currently, fractionated laser resurfacing is one of our most effective technologies for acne scarring. Both the Pixel CO2/Omnifit and the Fraxel Repair utilize the most potent resurfacing laser, the 10,600 CO2, combined with the safety of our current fractionated technology.  While the specifics of each laser differ a little, I think you should expect... more

Hi scubasteve, I have had very good experience with treating my patients acne scarring with Fraxel re:pair.  I have not had any experience with Pixel, but from those who have, I have heard that it is not as effective as the re:pair.  Good luck and be well. Dr. P