Fraxel Restore - Related Questions

Q: Would Fraxel laser remove the white spots I am getting on my arms and legs and shoulders? What kind of procedure would improve these white spots where there appears to be no more pigment left? I seem to have just as many freckles as I have white spots now that I'm 40. Are these white spots considered age spots too?

A: Fraxel Dual is an option to improve irregular pigmentation of the face and body, but I need to make a few points. First, if the depigmentation is from sun exposure or from old acne scars, the Dual helps by lightening the surrounding sun damaged areas with INCREASED pigmentation so the skin blends better. Unfortunately, once pigment is destroyed by sun or trauma, there is no reliable way to get it back. Lastly, you need to be sure to see a board certified dermatologist in order to get a correct diagnosis of the pigment loss. Sun damage is not the only cause of irregular pigmentation. It could be the result of something as innocuous as tinea versicolor, or as potentially serious as vitiligo. Accurate diagnosis should always precede treatment courses.

Q: How long does Fraxel last? I realize it may depend upon the laser, skin type, age, sun exposure. Is this something I need to do annually?

A: That is an excellent question. It is very important to be on a maintenance skin care program after fraxel to maintain the benefits longer. Daily sunscreen, all year round is key. Evening retinoids, bleaching agents and growth or other peptides will all prolong your benefit. Most compliant patients feel they need another Fraxel in 2-3 years.

Q: I have a lot of brown spots on my face as well as acne scars from years ago. I have an Asian and white heritage. Is there a safe option for me? I have a friend with similar skin who now has a white hue to her skin after getting some kind of laser.

A: My guess is that your friend had a rather aggressive resurfacing with a carbon dioxide laser. Delayed loss of pigment was a rather common complication. It was less noticeable in white patients, but Asian and Hispanic patients often suffered with the irregular pigmentation.

I recommend Fraxel Dual for your situation. The 1550 nm wavelength helps the texture and scars and the 1927 nm wavelength improves the blotchy pigmentation. Patients typically need 2 sessions of both (that is why it is called Dual) to give best results for mild acne scars and more severe pigmentation. More treatments at a more aggressive setting of just the 1550nm laser may be needed if the scars are severe. I have been using the Fraxel now for almost 5 years and have been pleased with the results as well as the safety for ethnic patients.


More Fraxel Restore Related Questions

  • Fraxel Dual New Orleans - I went to a med spa recently and after a consult, the aesthetician did a procedure called "fractional". I am not sure what it was exactly, but she said it was to improve my sun damage. Well that was $800.00 dollars ad 3 weeks ago and I look no better at all. What, exactly, is "fractional"?
  • Fraxel in New Orleans - I had a laser treatment and I was told it was a Fraxel, but I just saw a TV show and the machine said Fraxel on it. The one used on me did not look like the same machine, and the one on TV was a roller application. The machine used on me was stamped in spots on my face. Was I duped?
  • Fraxel Procedure New Orleans - What are my options to improve my stretch marks?
  • Fraxel Treatments New Orleans - Is It OK to go to a Tanning Booth (Wearing a 50 SPF) in Between Fraxel Treatments? I want to protect my face but still get a body-tan. Will a SPF 50 sunblock provide enough protection to the face during 7-minute sun booth sessions?
  • Fraxel Restore in New Orleans - What Procedures Can Remove Ice Pick Scars?
  • Fraxel Restore New Orleans - I had Fraxel 3 days ago and my skin is very dry and brown. Is this normal?
  • Fractora Laser vs Fraxel New Orleans - I had a Fraxel several months ago. Is it safe for me to get on Accutane?
  • Fraxel Treatment New Orleans - I am planning on getting Fraxel. How can I maximize my results and maintain the improvement longer? I can only afford to do this once!
  • Fraxel Scar Removal New Orleans - I have deep pitted, old acne scars that I would like treated. Is Fraxel the best option for treatment? I have tried chemical peels and microdermabrasion with little improvement.
  • Fraxel Restore Procedure New Orleans - Would Fraxel laser remove the white spots I am getting on my arms and legs and shoulders? What kind of procedure would improve these white spots where there appears to be no more pigment left? I seem to have just as many freckles as I have white spots now that I'm 40. Are these white spots considered age spots too?

Back to Fraxel Restore Home Page
Meet one of the countrys leading experts in the field of non-surgical skin rejuvenation.

Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology
Mary P. Lupo, M.D. - Connect on Linkedin

Our mission at the Lupo Center is to provide patients with innovative, effective and ethical care to make each person look and feel their personal best. To fulfill our goal, we provide state-of-the-art medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments to all patients.

Board certified dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology Mary P. Lupo, MD has been a leader in the field of non-surgical rejuvenation since 1983. She travels internationally to teach her innovative techniques, and her reputation brings in patients from around the country. She started the first formal residency training program for injectables and peels in 1983 at Tulane Medical School and served as past president of Women’s Dermatologic Society, adjunct professor of dermatology at Tulane and a founder of Cosmetic Boot Camp. Dr. Lupo holds membership in many prestigious dermatology associations, participates in clinical trials for approval of new drugs and devices and acts as an advisor for numerous aesthetic-minded companies.

Appointment Request:

If you submit an online appointment request, we will contact you to schedule the date and time. All new-patient appointments must be scheduled over the phone.


Success Stories

Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology
Review From Phuong N.
The best dermatologist in all of the Louisiana easily. She’s is very knowledgeable and can help you with your skin conditions. Make sure you tell her everything and don’t be shy because she moves fast, and you may forget to tell her something. But all in all I highly suggest her.
More Success Stories