I have had about 5 fraxel treatments over the years. I was told it will make my skin thin I thought it produced collagen?

Fraxel and fractional co2 can help build collagen to the skin. You may also consider using Retinoid Repair Cream to help build the collagen. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Hi Camille, Thank you for your question.In our experience the Fraxel laser is used to improve skin tone and texture.  The improvement comes from stimulating collagen production which thickens the skin.  You should not notice thinner skin.  Dr. Jennifer Chwalek

There are different types of lasers
that are useful for skin rejuvenation. Fractionated laser can be ablative,
meaning that it removes the superficial layer of skin and works by the body
creating a new superficial skin layer or non-ablative which is a less deep
laser treatment. The deeper treatments are better for wrinkles, the less deep
treatments are better for skin texture. Both stimulate collagen because they
create tissue injury. Once you create tissue injury, collagen is stimulated.
However, collagen stimulation and skin thickening are not the same thing because
if a lot of tissue is injured the skin might actually not produce enough collagen
to overcome the injury so both answers are correct. You really need to see a specialist to
determine what treatments are necessary, if any, to correct the condition. If
it is a pigment related issue, light-based treatments such as IPL are often
preferred over Fraxel. If it is a skin-thinning issue, treatments such as
Sculptra can be excellent to produce collagen and help with shaping the face
and improving fine lines. Seek out an injection specialist, aesthetic surgeon
or a board-certified dermatologist who can advise you as to what procedure will
work best for you.