For brown spots, sun damage and freckles, is a fraxel or a triadvantage more effective?

Question

I’m not concerned with down time. I want results

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. 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

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I suggest that you consult with your board certified facial plastic surgeon to determine the laser treatments or combination of treatments that will be best suited for your skin type, desired outcome and any personal concerns.
Best wishes,

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination approach will give the most improvement. Sun damage can be improved with a combination of Cosmelan, lasers, Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Lucas Bryant, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Lasers can be confusing! Fraxel is simply a laser company that makes several different types of lasers. Trivantage is also just a laser company, not a type of treatment. Trivantage is a q-switched alexandrite laser which is originally used for tattoo removal. It will not offer the same skin resurfacing benefits of CO2. CO2 fractional laser is the gold standard for skin rejuvenation. Warm regards.

Sarah B. Sawyer, MD · Answer

Great question, and I think the answer is "both!"
Fraxel is a great choice for evening out skin color and texture, such as patches of brown color. 
The Trivantage is a Q-switched laser, which can work on specific brown spots and flat keratoses that may not respond to a fractional resurfacing laser. 
When I see a patient with both diffuse brown sun damage and dark spots, I will often use both lasers in the same day for best results. 
Hope this helps! Best wishes, Dr. Sawyer

For brown spots, sun damage and freckles, is a fraxel or a triadvantage more effective?

Answers (6)

Answer: Laser type for sun damaged skin

Answer: Laser type for sun damaged skin

Answer: Which laser best for brown spots

Answer: Which laser best for brown spots

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For brown spots, sun damage and freckles, is a fraxel or a triadvantage more effective?

Answers (6)

Answer: Laser type for sun damaged skin

Answer: Laser type for sun damaged skin

Answer: Which laser best for brown spots

Answer: Which laser best for brown spots

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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