Fraxel Laser for Extensive Facial Actinic Keratosis?

Hi Baz,

  I'm going to assume that when you mention the "Fraxel" laser, you are referring to the Fraxel Re:pair (which is a fractionated "ablative" laser). . . The Fraxel Re:store is a fractionated nonablative laser, and, as such, does not treat the upper layers of the skin from which actinic keratoses arise.

  Since the Fraxel is "fractionated," it is not treating/ablating 100% of the surface area of the epidermis (upper layer of skin). This is one of the reasons why this laser is able to deliver reliable results with much less potential for side effects than older ablative lasers, which were not fractionated.

  However, since the Fraxel is fractionated, it is not the gold-standard treatment for actinic keratoses because portions of the actinic keratoses may be spared from treatment. Think of it this way. . . if you are only treating a fraction of the total surface of the epidermis, you are leaving areas that still could potentially have those precancerous cells.

  To treat the entire "field" of skin that has actinic keratoses (or could soon develop them), I'd recommend photodynamic therapy (PDT). As has been mentioned elsewhere in the responses to this question, PDT involves the application of Levulan (aminolevulinic acid) to the skin followed by exposure to blue light, which activates the Levulan to target the precancerous cells. In my opinion/experience, adding IPL to the mix as well as exposure to red light (+/- spot treating with pulse dye laser) further boosts its aesthetic results.

  Needless to say, there are always the at-home topical treatments that you can use to treat areas with actinic keratoses. However, in my opinion, if you would rather forgo the hassle of protracted at-home treatments, I highly recommend PDT.

Fractional CO2 laser is an excellent tool for skin rejuvenation in our center in Santa Monica. We use the fractional multi-depth ablative approach to help resurface the skin, recontour acne scars, improve incisional plastic surgery scars, and reduce surface irregularities from skin tone to dark pigmentation. Our approach utilizes a multi-depth approach that targets melanocytes in the epidermis and collagen fibroblasts in the dermis. This approach can be combined with a TCA Peel in a process known as a sapphire peel. Fractional laser is excellent for acne scars and contour scars in the skin. Patients are advised to undergo skin protocols with Melarase creams before and after treatment to help reduce pigmentation. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. After the laser, we expect redness for a few weeks as the skin improves. PRP and Hydrafacial enzyme facials can further improve skin quality after fractional co2.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Thank you for your question. You must go for an Ablative laser skin resurfacing treatment, as it is one of the most effective cosmetic procedures. Fractional or traditional CO2 or dermabrasions are the most current options. Fraxel Re: Store is a non-ablative procedure and it is not that effective for Actinic Keratosis.  You may opt for Fraxel Repair as it is an ablative procedure. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!