Doctor Says OK to Have Fraxel While on 10 Mg Accutane - is He Right?

Question

Hi! Currenly on 10mg of accutance p/day. My local dermatologist said its perfectly fine to do a course of 3 fraxel treatments while on accutance to treat my large pores / acne scars. Is he right? It seems everywhere says to avoid fraxel untill at least a year after accutane. Maybe due to my low dosage its okay? What are possible risks? Thanks in advance :)

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

For an elective procedure it is always best to create the safest condition. It would be prudent to finish the course of Accutane and wait six months, at least, and then have the Fraxel, whether, Fraxel Resotre or Repair

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

I would avoid any laser treatments including Fraxel for at least a full six months after you complete your Accutane.  You may not have any reaction but why take that chance?

Mary P. Lupo, MD · Answer

While Fraxel Restore is technically "non-ablative" it requires a healing response from the skin and skin appendages that are directly impacted by the Accutane. Why not let the Accutane do its job, wait 6 months after you are off and do a test spot to be sure you heal normally?  What is the rush? I always suggest you err on the side of caution with elective procedures.

Steven Hacker, MD · Answer

I do not recommend any laser including Fraxel until at least 6 months to 1 year after completion of accutane therapy. The risks outweigh the benefits of using this.

Chad L. Prather, MD · Answer

I would strongly advise against any invasive treatment while on isotretinoin (Accutane), including Fraxel (ablative or non-ablative) treatments.  There is evidence that abnormal scarring may occur in patients on accutane.  6 months after stopping accutane, you may resume cosmetic treatments. 
Some physicians recommend waiting one year, but there is no evidence that the waiting period needs to be quite this long.  Increased facial scarring is not worth the risk... Wait 6 months for all invasive cosmetic procedures.

Doctor Says OK to Have Fraxel While on 10 Mg Accutane - is He Right?

Answers (6)

Answer: Accutane and Fraxel

Answer: Accutane and Fraxel

Answer: Do not undergo Fraxel treatments while on Accutane

Answer: Do not undergo Fraxel treatments while on Accutane

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Doctor Says OK to Have Fraxel While on 10 Mg Accutane - is He Right?

Answers (6)

Answer: Accutane and Fraxel

Answer: Accutane and Fraxel

Answer: Do not undergo Fraxel treatments while on Accutane

Answer: Do not undergo Fraxel treatments while on Accutane

Browse related questions

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.