Good or Excellent Response
46%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Moderate Response
81%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Side Effects
Low-Medium
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist or plastic surgeon? Make an appointment to get this procedure done. Don't have a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find a dermatologist or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to find a plastic surgeon.
Read All About Non-ablative Fractional Lasers
Compare To Other Treatments
5
12.9%
4
22.3%
3
30.2%
2
17.3%
1
17.3%

Used Non-ablative Fractional Lasers? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
May 22, 2009

Pros:

Had first treatment yesterday for my severe nodulocystic acne scars. Performed by a dermatologist with a Fraxel Laser representative in the room for consultation, plus two nurses. Used EMLA cream first, then doctor injected topical numbing medicine

Cons:

Uncomfortable, but tolerable. Do not know yet about effectiveness.

Dermatologist said she used high setting because my acne scars are so deep and thick. She made ten passes along each major scar. Cooling air wand almost as much of a distraction as a help. Prior to procedure, doctor had me take prescription anti-anxiety medicine to calm me and perhaps make me a bit sleepy, but it didn't seem to help, even after she upped the dose. Next day I did experience bits of fuzzy memory loss from drug. Today I'm repeatedly applying soothing moisturizing cream to dry red cheeks and forehead. Not painful, though, and minimal swelling except for a bit of swelling right under one eye. Will update review as procedures continue. Affordability was free because it was done by the military since acne scars were a result of years of prednisone treatment.
April 25, 2008

Pros:

a little bit of improvement on shallow scars (too little)

Cons:

alot of downtime (10 days for me). During downtime my face looked like a brown checker board. Very little improvement if any for the large price tag.

I started to break out due to the heat of laser and because i couldn't use ance wash/cream for the 10 days. So now, about 20 days after the treatment my skin texture and appearance is still crappy and with small zits. Dang this sucks because I been saving the $800 for so long.
December 20, 2007

Pros:

none

Cons:

hypopigmentation

Went to a reputable dermatologist in NJ. I have fair asian/irish skin so I expressed my hyperpigmentation concerns with my doctor. The procedure was only really painful on my cheeks, where most of my acne scars exist. I am not sure if he cranked up the power for these areas but there is now hypopigmentation and what appears to be slightly raisd striations.
November 17, 2007

Pros:

My skin feels much more even!, and i i've got my confidence back!

Cons:

a little painful, but worth it!, and a little pricy!, if you get it done on your back leave the dream on for 2 hours!

At first my dermotoligist told me that there was nothing to to for my acne scarring on my back, i was deverstated, and then i discovered fraxel laser! after my first treatment it went so well i noticed my results after about a week, and i just had my second treatment and i'm already seeing my deep scarring fade! yay! Maybe my skin just reacted well to it, but if anyone that is suffering from living life to the fullest becasue of your acne scarring i recomend getting a cosultation at least! because my scarring was so bad, and i am a young woman, i can now wear my bikini and do my formal in a beautiful backless dress! X
December 28, 2011

Pros:

+ The swelling makes you think your skin is perfect!
+ Helped with discoloration from prior breakouts

Cons:

- Little improvement in scarring
- I was not informed that one doesn't need to get Fraxel while still actively breaking out
- I was not informed there are different types of Fraxel lasers
- I was burned by tech.

I received Fraxel Re:store. Unfortunately, as stated, the doctor didn't tell me there are different types or forms of Fraxel. I wanted (and still WANT and NEED) Fraxel Re:pair because my scars are deep. I had so many Re:stores I lost count. The doctor was fleecing me while I put my trust in him. Although I was under the influence of Valium, hydrocodone, Xanax, and nerve blockers injected in my cheeks by the doctor, I do remember the instance his tech burned me...she burned my cheek/jaw and chin. I still bear the raised scar right under my jaw. The chin burn either didn't scar or you just can't really tell. The burn on my cheek near my hairline lost pigment but returned over the years...probably due to other treatments I've had done. I didn't realize the burn was as bad as it was, so when I saw him maybe two weeks later at my mother's urging, he was upset and knew it scarred, yet only offered me MORE Re:stores for free. And I, trusting, naive, and emotionally worn, took him up on it. I should have sued. I do NOT recommend Fraxel Re:store, but I AM seeking out a Fraxel Re:pair and I sincerely hope to see SERIOUS results with it.
October 23, 2007

Pros:

Relative down time. Face is swollen afterwards which slowly goes away after a few days. No pain after the treatment.

Cons:

Don't even think about getting this without some pain tablets - numbing cream not enough. Not a drastic change for the $$$. Have had 2 tx for deep acne scars - will get 2 more and then evaluate. The doctor recommends 6-8.

There are not a lot of alternatives for ice pick scarring. Fraxel helps some. I think it is worth a try since our pores get larger as we age. I am 49 and have not seen a difference in the small lines around my mouth. The laser is painful when the treatment is around the temples. I would not use Fraxel to reduce signs of aging.My skin color has improved. There is a healthier pink glow now. Acne returns with menopause and Fraxel does not get rid of it. The cost is horrific. I pay $900 per treatment. The doctor didn't offer anything in the way of aftercare. I use Bioxin and apply ice packs. A few days later, I do a face mask. Don't believe what you read about minimal discomfort during the treatment. It feels like someone is pulling the tiny facial hairs out. Ask for a pain pill about 30 minutes before and get an ice pack since your face will feel hot afterwards.
April 16, 2007

Pros:

?

Cons:

made my pores large and scar's more noticable.

I had an Dermabrasion done over a year ago. I think that it made my scar's look worse. Like the wine glass effect. Wider at the bottom then at the top. I have also had 5 fraxel treatment's done about 8 month's ago and i'm not impressed with that either. I truely believe it has couse fat loss.
May 1, 2008

Pros:

My third treatment was yesterday. Since I look at my face everyday I haven't noticed a great difference, but my friends all agree it's doing a wonderful job. I am happy with the tone of my skin - no more red spots.

Cons:

Everyone should know this isn't considered a "one time" treatment that will fix up your skin. I paid for 4 treatments. After my last appointment, the results will continue as the treatment heals my skin for several months.

There is no telling how your skin will look after one treatment. 6 months from now, I expect great results as it continues to work deep under the surface of my skin. The swelling and peeling last 4 days. It's worth it.
December 4, 2007

Pros:

Immediate results, little downtime, CONFIDENCE

Cons:

sedation

I received my first Fraxel treatment last week and I could see immediate results for my acne scars. I was actually sedated during my treatment, because my doctor is more of an "aggressive" treater, which I love. After seeing so much improvement with just one treatment, I can't wait to see what my skin looks like after two or three. It is expensive, but worth the money.
November 14, 2007

Pros:

My scars are almost 95 % over due to Fractional Laser Resurfacing

Cons:

There is 2 days downtime and some times hyperpigmentation occur which resolved using creams and sun block

I tried a lot of creams but nothing works on my scars.I had pitted Acne scars of different varieties like rolling and ice pick.I had five treatments of three weeks interval with Fractional Laser from Dr.Ahmad Chaudhry Lahore Pakistan and satisfied with the results.

Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.