Can fraxel be used on my back for old acne scars? (Photo)

Question

I'm a 21 yr old female. I'm a quarter Native American so I can tan easy but ultimately and am white. I don't burn too easy either as it takes various days in 90+ degree weather to burn (with no sunscreen). My concern is the acne spots and then even some bumps and divots I have on my back. I have had scars since I started to break out about 8 yrs ago at most.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser.  Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.  
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

William Groff, DO · Answer

If the scars are shallow, Fraxel may be able to fade them well enough for you to be satisfied. However, scars can be very difficult to treat and may require multiple therapies, including microneedling and chemical peels. Scar tissue is very tough and does not respond like healthy skin. Be sure to consult a board-certified dermatologist who can offer you a number of options – either singly or together as co-treatments – to improve your scars.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination approach will give the most improvement. These types of scars need a combination of lasers, microneedling/prp, subcision and fillers. Co2 is best for acne scars, but Erbium is a great alternative. It will take a series of treatments and may need life-long treatments to maintain. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Can fraxel be used on my back for old acne scars? (Photo)

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Can fraxel be used on my back for old acne scars? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser

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