Should I get a facial before or after Fraxel?

It is not necessary to do a facial prior to Fraxel. Fraxel alone will help clear the pores. It is a non-ablative resurfacing laser procedure even after one treatment Fraxel improves skin texture leaving feeling smother and clean. Fraxel Laser Skin Resurfacing is an FDA-approved fractional laser technology to help restore your skin to its original, perfect texture and achieves smoother, fresher, younger looking skin, improved tone and texture, smaller pores, erasing of unwanted brown spots, acne scars, and surgical scars, and reduces fine lines. Studies have shown that Fraxel improves pore size between 10-15 percent after one treatment.

Both! It is an essential part of skincare to pre and post treat with consistent facials. Before doing the Fraxel being essential in order to clear your pores and allow the laser to penetrate deeper and after to ensure proper healing and to retain maximum results. You can also pre-treat with peels such as the Enlighten or Cosmelan Peel (linked below). I offer complimentary virtual and in-person consultations regarding peel and product recommendations. Best, Dr. Emer.

Thanks for your great question. I would recommend you do the Fraxel treatment first. This procedure stimulates the body to produce additional collagen, which smooths away fine lines and wrinkles and rejuvenates the appearance of the skin overall. It is possible the Fraxel treatment will provide satisfying results and you won’t need an additional facial. Make sure you work with a board-certified dermatologist who is also an expert in laser devices to ensure an optimal outcome from your procedure. 

Depending on the intensity of the facial, you can get it before or after your fraxel treatment. Fraxel involves 2 - 4 weeks of downtime, meaning that you should avoid harsh scrubs and direct sunlight for 2 - 4 weeks. Be sure to consult with your doctor to make sure that your skin is ready for your facial if you decide to get it after your fraxel treatment.

I would recommend that my patients receive the Fraxel treatment first, since this has the benefit of also treating additional concerns such as sun damage and wrinkles, in addition to acne and acne scars.


Many patients are pleasantly surprised to learn that they do not require additional aesthetic treatments during the time Fraxel treatments are being performed.


After 3-4 weeks have passed after completion of Fraxel laser treatments, depending on their goals, they can then proceed to receive additional treatments such as a facial.