Profractional laser VS Fraxel laser?

Question

Hi, I have been researching both profractional laser treatment and fraxel laser treatment in order to help me decide which one to get. I have deep acne scars, some wrinkles, have a lot of large pores and also my facial skin's color seems to be off. From what I understand, Fraxel is the brand of laser and profractional is the type of laser (I might be wrong). I am getting contradicting facts and opinions regarding which one gives the best results. Expert advice would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

Either laser can be used to treat acne scars, wrinkles, sun damage, or texture. But CO2 is better for sun damage, wrinkles, and texture while the Fraxel laser is better for acne scars. Some patients cannot have downtime and prefer to use the Fraxel laser for wrinkles. With the Fraxel laser some patients experience a reddness and some areas are puffy for a few days. Some side effects for the CO2 laser are scarring, hypopigmentation (whitened skin), also patients reported that they can see a difference where areas of the skin that were treated compared to areas that were not, which does not blend. The recommend number of treatments for the Fraxel is 3, many patients seen a difference just have 1 treatment.

Manjula Jegasothy, MD · Answer

Non-Ablative Fractional Laser Resurfacing is the name of the procedure, both Fraxel® and Profractional® are brand names of lasers which perform that procedure. Either may be appropriate for treating/ resurfacing your acne scars/fine lines/pores. They may be less effective (currently) for treating discolorations long-term (the Nd: yag laser may be more appropriate for this problem).Please see a board-certified Aesthetic Dermatologist to evaluate your specific issues and provide you with the best advice regarding timing and number of treatments you may need, as well as help with maintenance as you age.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Fraxel is a wonderful laser.  There are two types of Fraxel Laser - one is ablative and one is non-ablative (pro-fractional).  Both types of lasers work well on acne scars but it depends on the nature of your scars, the degree of down time that you can tolerate, and your skin color.  Please consult a board certified dermatologist about the best treatment for your acne scars who has experience with these lasers.

Michael H. Gold, MD · Answer

The first thing that
you should do is to consult a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon
skilled in laser surgery. Then you can learn first hand about these and other
lasers that are used to help your skin concerns. Fraxel is a brand, and they
have both non-ablative and ablative laser systems that can help in the concerns
you have.

Profractional is
also a brand – it is an erbium ablative fractional laser and can also be very
useful. Other laser systems exist, other brands and other kinds that can have
an effect to help your skin, including the RF fractional lasers and the RF
microneedling devices. As I noted, someone knowledgeable in these different
devices can work with you, determine the best approach for you, and along with
a good skin care routine, help with all of your concerns.

Jerome Potozkin, MD · Answer

I think you answered your own question.  I think your best course of action is to seek the expertise of reputable and highly trained laser surgeon in your area.  Usually, the choice of practitioner is more important than the device selection.

Profractional laser VS Fraxel laser?

Answers (5)

Answer: Non-Ablative and Ablative Laser Systems

Answer: Non-Ablative and Ablative Laser Systems

Answer: Expert Advice is Key

Answer: Expert Advice is Key

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser

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

Profractional laser VS Fraxel laser?

Answers (5)

Answer: Non-Ablative and Ablative Laser Systems

Answer: Non-Ablative and Ablative Laser Systems

Answer: Expert Advice is Key

Answer: Expert Advice is Key

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser

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