Will Fraxel Laser Treatments Work on my Olive Complexion?

Fraxel is safe for Fitzpatrick III (darker white skin) and IV (brown skin) patients. Fraxel Re:Pair [CO2] can cause hyperpigmentation if you are not careful healing. For someone with olive skin, I would recommend avoiding direct sunlight for the first 2 weeks after your treatment. Afterwards, you should use sun block and a good hat. You are better off going with a doctor who has enormous expertise on the subject, however, as this procedure can require a lot of skill to perform on someone with olive skin.  With higher melanin, you are more susceptible to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).  Be careful and you should be alright.

We have both the Fraxel Repair and the Fraxel Restore and use them both on olive skin to address sun damage and acne scars. You will have a higher risk of temporary discoloration than someone with fair skin, but the risk is slow if you go to an experienced dermatologist. Take care, Dr. Groff

Both the Fraxel Repair and Fraxel Restore can be safely and effectively used on Olive skin complexion.  I have treated many patients with Olive skin complexion with great results.  The key is to be aware of the increased risks of temporary hyperpigmentation and to do everything you can to minimize that risk-- including sun avoidance (using sunscreen, hats while outdoors), using a pre and post treatment regimen with bleaching agents, and seeing an experienced dermatologist who knows the right setting to use in your type of skin.

Best,

Dr. Mann