Do multiple fractional laser treatments equal one fully ablative erbium laser resurfacing?

Question

I wonder if its better to go safer way and perform fractional co2 3-4 times or perform one fully ablative erbium laser resurfacing. If the results are equal with multiply fractional resurfacing to improve skin texture/large pores or for smoothing the skin its better to perform one time fully ablative erbium? Thanks

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Because
ablative erbium resurfacing penetrates more deeply into the skin’s layers, treatment
requires a far more significant commitment in terms of price, recovery and
discomfort level compared to fractional lasers like Fraxel®. Several fractional laser treatments can deliver very impressive
results (firmer skin tone, diminished pigmentation and age spots, even improved
acne scars) with only a fragment of the downtime and much faster healing. The
recovery process is easier and doesn’t require you to put your life on hold for
a month. There are also more risks associated with ablative erbium lasers, like
hyperpigmentation, which are leading more dermatologists and plastic surgeons
to prefer the less intense, less invasive fractional laser resurfacing instead.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

The issue has to do with downtime, results, and healing. Some people cannot tolerate a month or more of healing, goopy skin, oozing, etc. so they are not candidates for erbium. Also, the healing and risk of hyper or hypo pigmentation is greater with erbium because more tissue is removed. Fractional lasers have less downtime, less skin removed, less issues with post care, and less problems. More treatments of it are often needed, but results are usually (in my experience) much better. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and 
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person 
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Do multiple fractional laser treatments equal one fully ablative erbium laser resurfacing?

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fractional Laser

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

Do multiple fractional laser treatments equal one fully ablative erbium laser resurfacing?

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fractional Laser

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