Bumps and Blisters Normal After Fraxel Restore?

Question

Numerous small, whitish bumps appeared approximately twelve hours after I underwent Fraxel Restore Treatment, mainly on my chin and lower cheek area. I was wondering what they are and if I could avoid getting them on my next treatment. These things seem to exfoliate as the days go by, but I fear that they might cause scars.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Your doctor should see you to evaluate whether these are white milia (whiteheads) or pustules. If they are small pus-filled pustules in a background of redness and if there is tenderness or itching, then there may be a yeast reaction. If there is tenderness it could, with low probability be a bacterial infection. the bumps could be plugged sweat glands and this could be likened to a heat rash. Are you using a topical cream post operatively, to which you have developed an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis) which is especially common with bacitracin, polysporin and neosporin or neomycin.

Lorrie Klein, MD · Answer

Pustules such as these are usually due to overheating of the skin during the Fraxel laser treatment. This can occur when the passes occur to quickly without adequate cooling time between them. The usually heal without any problems within a week, just make sure that you don't pick or squeeze them.

Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Small white bumps or whiteheads sometimes appear after Fraxel Restore laser. The chin area is where you are more likely to develop them and they usually exfoliate in 2-3 days after the treatment. Overusing occlusive creams, such as Vaseline or Aquaphor can also cause whiteheads. Try to hydrate the skin by using professional skin care products, instead of heavy creams.

Ronald Sulewski, MD · Answer

These look like a common reaction that is in the acne family. After the laser treatment, small oil glands or follicles can get blocked causing the bumps. There would be ways to “fine tune” your before and after care to minimize this reaction, but it might come up every time you get a resurfacing treatment.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The white bumps you are experiencing can be
several things. The most common is milia. This is retention cysts after injury
to the skin and typically resolves on their own. Whitish bumps can also
indicate either a fungal or bacterial infection and would need medical
treatment as scarring can occur. I recommend having a follow up with your
treating physician for evaluation and treatment. Best of Luck!

Tanya Kormeili, MD · Answer

It is common to get milia (those little bumps!) after Fraxel! It is a good thing! 
It signifies that your skin is undergoing purging and healing. The congestion of the pores is being eliminated while the skin is producing inflammation to heal and produce new collagen.
I usually give my patients various topical antibiotics that help with pustules such as the ones you are having.
Pls contact your provider and ask them to give you the help you need. The Rx meds work like a charm in these situations.
Good luck!

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The white bumps you are experiencing can be
several things. The most common is milia. This is retention cysts after injury
to the skin and typically resolves on their own. Whitish bumps can also
indicate either a fungal or bacterial infection and would need medical
treatment as scarring can occur. I recommend having a follow up with your
treating physician for evaluation and treatment. Best of Luck!

Jhonny Salomon, MD · Answer

I will advice you to see your treating physician as soon as possible.  Better you should consult your physician fast.

Edward E. Dickerson, IV, MD · Answer

This is most likely milia (white heads). Milia is not a long-term probably and will go away on it's own with no scarring if you avoid picking at them. However, It is best to contact the physician that preformed the treatment to rule out possible fungal or bacterial infections.

	 

	"Dr.D"

Patrick McElgunn, MD · Answer

Little white bumps so soon after Fraxel are a follicular obstruction condition. These are sometimes called milia or an acne-like response. It is in the normal range of responses to Fraxel resurfacing. They will resolve as healing progresses as you have noticed. They will not scar. Avoid the temptation to pick them as this may cause scarring.

Bumps and Blisters Normal After Fraxel Restore?

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