The Fraxel laser and the new fractional co2 laser devices have a lot in common but they actually treat different problems. Fraxel traditionally has been used to treat acne scars, pigmentation, large pores and much more. With the popularity of the Fractional Co2 Laser many offices who own the fraxel laser are looking for ways to use both devices. This is proving to be a problem because there is a lot of overlap with the two devices.

We have spoke with numerous physicians who have experience with both devices, here is what they suggest.

Port Wine Stains- Fraxel Laser has proven to be a better option for this.

Moderate Acne Scarring- Fraxel may also be a better option because of spot size and the focalized treatment. You have to be careful not to damage the dermis to much which will cause the patient more pain than they may be willing to deal with. You will have to determine how many treatments will be needed prior to deciding which option is best for your patient.

The pain level associated with SmartXide is actually less than Fraxel in most cases so it is important that you do not go to aggressive with the Fraxel vs. doing the Fractional Co2 Laser.

The disposables with Fraxel is also something to consider but remember that most Fractional Co2 Laser Devices also have disposables despite what the manufacturer or sales person tells you.

Pore Size- SmartXide and Fraxel are both good at improving the pore size.  It comes down to the number of treatments that will be needed for each, cost and how aggressive the physician is with treating it.  Fraxel will take at least three-five treatments to see a significant improvement and SmartXide Dot will probably take 2-3.

Severe Acne Scarring- Fractional CO2 laser proves to be a better option in most cases. You may need two-three treatments with Fractional Co2 vs. 5-9 treatments with Fraxel.

Fine Lines and Wrinkles- The is best treated by Fractional Co2 laser devices but is not achieved after only one treatment. Two treatments depending on how aggressive the physician is will usually yield the best results.

One thing that you may want to do is lower the price of the Fraxel treatment and instead of purchasing another laser, stick to renting for now. The technology is changing so much it may be worthwhile to actually rent a device and get comfortable with it before purchasing.

A lot of the Fractional Laser manufacturers are claiming that you see these incredible results after one treatment. Do not sell this line to your patients, you may be thinking of Traditional CO2 laser results which you will not see with one treatment or maybe ever with the fractional co2 laser resurfacing devices. It is always best to set the expectations low and surprise them with results, this is cosmetics 101 but most of the Fractional Co2 sales reps are selling the devices with VERY high and often unrealistic expectations.

At our practice we would always say 1-3 treatments with a package deal available or after the first treatment the cost would go down by 10-20 percent. We saw the best results in pore size, fine lines and severe acne scarring.