Fraxel Acne Scars- Does it Work?

I see patients fairly often that have had Fraxel treament for acne scars or for skin "tightening" that are disappointed in the results.  RealSelf's poll shows a very low "worth it" percentage (50%).  I would be very careful before spending money on this painful treatment.

CO2 is the best laser for scars, but Erbium is a great alternative. It may take a series of treatments to see improvements and to maintain. Keep in mind that a tailored combination approach will give you the most improvement with acne scars. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced cosmetic dermatologist and acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Fraxel is a laser tool used to improve texture
and tone of the skin.  It is often used in conjunction with IPL laser for
pigment improvement. Acne scarring should be approached via a multi-factorial
strategy.  Appropriate medical grade skin care, microneedling and laser
such as IPL and FRAX are excellent options to improve complexion and scarring.

thank you for your question. fraxel is a great treatment for acne scarring. depending on the severity you may need more than one treatment.

If there were one disease all dermatologists could banish, it would be acne. Besides the incredible psychological hit from having acne when you are a vulnerable teenager (and beyond as many 40 year olds can attest), many people carry scars the rest of their lives.Fraxel happens to be a particularly effective laser for lessening scars. Because fractional laser that is non-ablative (doesn't vaporize tissue), the recovery and healing is faster than other lasers that actually remove tissue. Fraxel works by coagulating tissue in ultrafine columns so healing is assisted by surrounding skin.So how does this work?Lasers intentionally create skin "injury". Why? This injury causes a body response of new collagen production. It's this new collagen that fills in some of the indentation of scars. With repeat treatments, you'll have cumulative improvements as each new collagen production cycle helps smooth the skin and lessen the shadows that call attention to acne scars.You'll need to have your acne under control if you still break out before beginning treatment. And if Fraxel is not deemed your best option there are alternatives that are non-laser. See a dermatologist to make that determination.

Yes, without a doubt!
The acne must be under control with oral /topical antibacterials (ex: doxycycline) There are two Fraxel machines.
Fraxel Restore - one treatment a month for four months. There is very little downtime, usually some redness for a day or two. My laser nurse does this topical anesthetic cream.
Fraxel Repair - This is a one time treatment that I do under general anesthesia. The treatment can also include neck and decollete depending on your age and skin needs. 
There is about a week downtime, but the skin is healed within one day. This will give a more lasting result than the Restore. However, you have to decide which course is better for you.