Can freckles and sunspots return after Fraxel Dual treatments despite sunscreen use?

Sun exposure after Fraxel can lead to hyperpigmentation and sun damage .  Reoccurrence of freckles and sunspots can occur after Fraxel treatment depite all sun protection. Vigorous use of sunscreen, skin care and sun protection is needed to prevent further hyperpigmentation. Best, Dr. Emer

Unfortunately, sunspots and hyperpigmentation can return with sun exposure even after a Fraxel Dual treatment. Fraxel is a great treatment option for hyperpigmentation. It removes the excess pigment and brightens the skin however it does not PREVENT your body from producing new pigment which it will do with sun exposure. Broad spectrum sunscreens with SFP 30+, wide brimmed hats, and large sunglasses do help protective your patient from the sun and help prevent hyperpigmentation. You can also maintain your Fraxel results with a series of peels. Repeat Fraxel Dual treatment every few years should also be considered. 

Unfortunately there is no cure for
pigmentation, and the potential for recurrence is always a possibility. Fraxel
Dual laser treatments are an excellent way to treat superficial sun damage,
however deeper cellular damage may still exist, and melanocytes, the cells that
produce melanin, can still be activated by even minimal sun exposure.By practicing good habits, you should be able
to uphold your results for some time, with perhaps some maintenance Fraxel
treatments needed every few years. Continue to use a physical sunblock daily,
and always cover up your areas of concern when possible. Routine exfoliating
and diligent use of a pigment suppressing product should also help to keep
pigment under control. Best of luck!

Thank you for your question.  Even with attentive sunscreen use, sunspots (lentigines) may return.  It is best to practice sun avoidance when possible and then be vigilant with sun protection including SPF > 30 sunscreen, sun protective clothing, wide brimmed hats, etc.  If the spots do return you may require an additional treatment.  Regards, Dr. Matt Elias