Is it common for a patient to experience purging or breaking out after a Fraxel Dual Treatment for PIH? (photo)

Question

I had an allergic reaction to a retinol/bpo product which gave me cystic acne and PIH. I still have occasional breakouts and read that fraxel can cause some people to break out. Is this true? Or could it just be from the recovery cream they use after?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Breaking out is common following this type of procedure and can be treated by a well trained cosmetic laser physician/dermatologist.  Please see your doctor. Best, Dr. Emer

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question!  Yes, there were cases when patients break out after Fraxel. It is important that your provider gives your adequate topical and oral medications post treatment, to control your breakouts and help your skin heal quicker. Best of luck!

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Yes, there were cases when patients break out after Fraxel. It is important that your provider gives your adequate topical and oral medications post treatment, to control your breakouts and help your skin heal quicker. Good luck!

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Fraxel is a great laser for sun damage but would not be my first choice for PIH. It is possible to break out with acne after the laser procedure if you are already acne prone or the creams you were using after Fraxel can also cause acne.  I would alert your treating physician so that they can prescribe you a topical or oral antibiotic.  I would also strongly consider chemical peels for your PIH. Best, Dr. Green

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

I have seen post Fraxel breakout fairly commonly. This is mostly from the 1550 wavelength. If just using the 1927, it is much less common. If you are acne prone, I will sometimes place patients on Minocycline during the recovery phase as a preventative measure.

Is it common for a patient to experience purging or breaking out after a Fraxel Dual Treatment for PIH? (photo)

Answers (5)