Has Anyone Heard of Fractora Laser? How Does It Compare to Fraxel?

Question

What is the best laser for sagging skin and wrinkles? I am 40 years old but have very lax skin (starting to get jowls and turkey neck). I want to start laser treatments now to prevent my skin sagging further. Is this possible?

David Steckler, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Fractora is not a laser but a fractional radio frequency device.  Much like fractional lasers it can be used to treat fine wrinkles (like the ones around the mouth and eyes) skin discoloration, small blood vessels and it will tighten skin.  Unlike lasers, radio frequency devices can be used safely on all skin types without risk of pigmentation changes. Your skin will be softer, smoother and look fresher. You will also build collagen over 4-6 months. There is very little down time as well. Good luck with in making a decision that is right for you.

Orna Fisher, MD · Answer

Unlike Fraxel, Fractora is not a laser whatsoever.  It is a microneedling device that looks like a stamp with many tiny needles on. These tiny needles penetrate the skin all at the same time and they once they are in the skin, a pulse of radiofrequency is delivered. This is essentially heat that creates a tiny injury at each needle site, and that stimulates the wound healing process and therefore induced collagen to form. That is how the tissues get a little tighter, a little thicker, and a little firmer from this treatment. 
There are needles that are coated and will only affect the deeper layer of the skin, and there are needles that are uncoated that affect the top layer and deeper layers.  Which type of needle tips are used depends on the goal one is trying to achieve as well as other factors determined by your provider. 
Fractora is a wonderful treatment  for multiple areas, including the face, neck, and chest.  It is wonderful for textural improvement. And as with any treatment, it is not indicated for everybody and is not recommended for certain people. That’s why you need an evaluation to determine your options. 
You described the skin on your neck to be very lax and Fractora alone does not work adequately by itself for this indication. It would need to be combined with another procedure, such as FaceTite, in order to be more effective.  The combined procedure is called EmbraceRF. You would need to consult with an expert that does all of the procedures (nonsurgical and surgical) and can assist you in determining what would be best for your particular situation. 
Nonsurgical options have their limitations, and if there is too much laxity, the best option is often a surgical neck lift.

Cameron Chesnut, MD, FAAD, FACMS · Answer

Fractora is a radiofrequency microneedling device targeted at photo rejuvenation of the skin. It is one of many devices in a large armamentarium available for this purpose. Fraxel is a brand of lasers that have many different wavelengths available. The best option for you will be based on your individual goals, needs and anatomy.
Energy-based devices like lasers, IPL, radio frequency, microfocused ultrasound and even coolsculpting cryolipolysis are all different tools in our toolbox. When seeking the best options for you, you want to make sure that you are working with somebody who has a full toolbox, and you are not just getting the recommendation for a few device options that they have to choose from. If you need screw tightened, you don’t want somebody trying to use a hammer to do it!
I keep 10+ devices on hand in my practice, which provides a very broad range and May serve as a good metric when speaking with somebody and considering your device options.
To ensure you are receiving the highest level of care, seek out a modernly trained, new-school dermatologic surgeon, oculoplastic surgeon, facial plastic surgeon or plastic surgeon who is board certified and fellowship trained in one of these “core four” cosmetic specialties. Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery help to identify a highly trained surgeon.
Cameron Chesnut
#realself100 Physician

Anna Hemming, MBChB, BSc, MRCGP · Answer

Fractora is a really good skin tightening, skin resurfacing and acne / acne scar treatment. I have used Fractora for some time and have experienced lovely results. Depending on the depth of treatment needed several sessions may be required. Scars will improve and skin can be tightened, it helps wrinkles too. 
The down time is a lot less that the more invasive Co2 fractional laser treatments, and the results are the same if not better in my patients. Down time is dependent on the intensity of treatment and you would expect to have a few days of redness, followed by some scabbing and healing where the skin will feel a bit rough. After that the healing and tightening continue as collagen and elastin are stimulated. Results last for up to 2 years. (although the aging process will be continuing in the background too).

Jhonny Salomon, MD · Answer

Good morning,

	There are many fractionated lasers in the market. We havent heard from fratora however I can talk to you about the benefits of Fraxel which is the Gold standard in this category.

	Fraxel uses a patented farctional technology to target fine wrinkles, hyperpigmentation,skin sagging penetrating deep into the skin. The surface of your skin will feel softer, smoother, look brighter and toned. In the next 6 months you will even see more improvement as the deeper layers of the skin continue to create collagen. You will need a series of treatments that will be tailored to your goals.

Has Anyone Heard of Fractora Laser? How Does It Compare to Fraxel?

Answers (5)

Answer: Information about Fractora

Answer: Information about Fractora

Answer: Fraxel for radiant skin

Answer: Fraxel for radiant skin

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fractora RF

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

Has Anyone Heard of Fractora Laser? How Does It Compare to Fraxel?

Answers (5)

Answer: Information about Fractora

Answer: Information about Fractora

Answer: Fraxel for radiant skin

Answer: Fraxel for radiant skin

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fractora RF

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