ZocdocAnswersAre Fraxel and Microderm peels the same?


Are Fraxel and Microderm peels the same?

Is there a difference between 'Fraxel' treatment and a microderm peel? I'm looking to get rejuvenating skin therapy and I'm trying to choose the type, but these kinds are always used interchangeably. If there is a difference, which one is the superior treatment?


Both Fraxel and microdermoabrasion (Microderm) treatments are therapies that are offered by dermatologists and other specialists as a way to treat skin aging, scarring, and color irregularities. Both techniques work on the same basic principle, which is that causing small amounts of controlled damage to the surface of the skin (resurfacing) can stimulate the growth of new tissue and remodeling of collagen, leading to smoother and firmer skin overall. The techniques differ in the way in which they cause this effect. Fraxel is a laser-based treatment that uses high energy laser lights to strip off the outer layers of skin. Microdermoabrasion, on the other hand, uses a mechanical technique not unlike sanding to accomplish the same thing. Both techniques are similar in their efficacy and both are usually well tolerated with minimal side effects (such as flushing and redness of the treated skin). The major difference between the two techniques is probably cost, as laser-based treatments tend to be more expensive. Also, neither technique will produce much effect in cases of serious skin damage, such as serious acne scarring. These situations usually require a more intensive resurfacing technique than either Fraxel or microdermoabrasion. You can talk to your dermatologist about which option is right for you.

