Why is fraxel getting such a bad rep? Is it a safe treatment?

Question

I see lots of negative reviews and horror stories for this treatment while browsing here. Its supposed to be less harsh than a full blown CO2 fractional laser right? At least thats what I got from googling the 2. My mom is fair and considering it to treat some sun damage on her face. Are the issues because of inexperienced fraxel provider? Is that something that needs certification? Or are some people just better candidates? Is there anything milder to try if she decides not to do fraxel?

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is important to seek a Technician and or Dr. that is certified and well trained in laser treatments. Skin type does play a factor in how the treatment can be set to give optimal results. Consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeons office to discus which laser treatments will be the most helpful and safe. You will get a highly trained staff and direct Physician involvement with your treatment and after care.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Tricia,Fraxel repair is an excellent laser treatment.  It is a fractionated CO2 laser.  I have been using the technology since it came out in 2008.  We have not had any negative results with our Fraxel repair treatments.  It sounds as if your mother is an excellent candidate for Fraxel repair as she is fair skinned. As with any treatment, the results and adverse events are dependent on the skill, experience, and knowledge of the treating physician.  It is most important to choose your treating physician most carefully.  Good luck and be well.Dr. PEncino, CA

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Tricia.  Fraxel and CO2, although different wavelengths are still very similar in that they are fractionated lasers.  This means that the light beam has been divided into many hundreds of small spots that perforate the skin.  This makes these lasers "ablative" which means you will have a recovery period.  If your Mom is looking for improvements in the skin TEXTURE, either of these may be good options, although we love the Sciton profractional Erbium laser.  If as an alternative, she is primarily interested in removing age spots (brown spots, liver spots) then we would suggest a q-switched lasers.  Ablative lasers like Fractional lasers are best for texture, but for color, they are not ideal.  To see examples of age spot removal with q-switched lasers in Chino, click on the link below to view the before and after photos.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I do fractional co2 and nonablative Fraxel everyday in my practice with amazing results.  We combine treatments with PRP and microneedling to enhance the results.  I suggest you see a laser expert for treatment.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Fraxel is my number one favorite laser for removing brown spots, sun damage, and fine lines.  One of the reasons that you read reviews that are unfavorable has to do with many different inexperienced doctors using lasers and saying that they are "Fraxel" when in fact they are not.  In experienced hands, the Fraxel laser is a remarkable laser with excellent and reproducible results.  For the best cosmetic results please consult a board certified dermatologist with experience with Fraxel laser.

Why is fraxel getting such a bad rep? Is it a safe treatment?

Answers (10)

Answer: Fraxel and Laser Treatments on FAce

Answer: Fraxel and Laser Treatments on FAce

Answer: Fraxel and Reviews

Answer: Fraxel and Reviews

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Why is fraxel getting such a bad rep? Is it a safe treatment?

Answers (10)

Answer: Fraxel and Laser Treatments on FAce

Answer: Fraxel and Laser Treatments on FAce

Answer: Fraxel and Reviews

Answer: Fraxel and Reviews

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.