Is it normal to get pimples after Fraxel?

Author: Mrs. Fabiola Bartell DVM  |  Last update: Sunday, August 3, 2025

If the Fraxel came into direct contact with any debris lurking in a pore, your body's healing process has expedited the cleansing process and pushing out the clog now. In other words, any pimples you are experiencing now are breakouts that would have occurred in the future.

Can Fraxel cause pimples?

Some patients may experience acne breakouts of pimples or whiteheads following Fraxel treatment. Dr. Green recommends that patients treat the breakout as soon as possible to avoid the formation of new acne scars on the skin's surface.

Is it normal to get small pimples after laser?

The occurrence of pimples after laser hair removal is relatively common and is generally not a cause for alarm. However, the frequency can vary depending on several factors such as skin type, the area being treated, and the expertise of the practitioner.

Why am I breaking out after laser resurfacing?

Applying thick creams and bandages to your face after treatment can worsen acne or cause tiny white bumps to form for a short time. These bumps also are called milia. Infection. Laser resurfacing can lead to a bacterial, viral or fungal infection.

Does your skin purge after laser?

Certain facials and laser treatments can also cause skin to purge. Reputable aestheticians and facialists will always inform you of these side effects, but it is worth bringing up at your appointment.

Fractional Laser Treatment Aftercare Do's and Don'ts & Recommended Skincare Ingredients

What does skin purging look like?

In other words, when you use certain products, your skin is likely to look worse before it looks better. A purge can look like blackheads and whiteheads, and it's likely to appear in the places where you normally break out.

Is it normal to get bumps after laser?

Bumps and itching can also occur after laser hair removal. This is usually a sign that the hair is being shed from the follicle. Using a gentle exfoliating scrub can help remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs.

What is the recovery time for Fraxel?

Recovery and Results

One of the key benefits of Fraxel Repair laser treatment is its relatively short recovery time. Patients may experience redness, swelling, and peeling immediately following the procedure, which typically subsides within a week. Makeup can be used to cover any temporary skin changes.

What are the stages of skin healing after laser?

The Healing Process after Laser Treatment

As the skin heals, new collagen is produced, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin. The healing process after laser treatment typically occurs in three stages: inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling.

Can you overdo laser resurfacing?

Overexposure to laser light can result in skin burns, varying in severity from mild redness and discomfort to more blistering, severe burns. Individuals with sensitive skin or undergoing multiple laser therapy sessions in a short timeframe are at a higher risk of experiencing these burns.

What is the fastest way to heal skin after laser treatment?

Use cold compresses: Applying cold compresses during the first 24 to 48 hours after your treatment can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Stay cool: Avoid hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise for the first few days after treatment. Heat can increase inflammation and slow healing.

Which laser is best for skin tightening?

Expert Dermatologists Name 8 Best Lasers and Devices for Skin Tightening
  • Laser and energy-based therapy is the gold standard for non-surgical skin tightening. ...
  • LaseMD Ultra. ...
  • Active FX and Deep FX. ...
  • Fraxel Repair. ...
  • Erbium YAG. ...
  • RF Microneedling. ...
  • Ellacor. ...
  • Sofwave.

How do you get rid of a pimple with laser?

Acne laser treatment is a type of therapy that uses lasers or other light treatments to reduce acne. The treatment works by killing acne-causing bacteria, reducing skin oil production, and reducing inflammation. These treatments may be used alone or in combination with prescription topical or oral acne medications.

Why do I get pimples after laser?

Skin Irritation – Laser treatment can irritate the skin, leading to inflammation and redness. This irritation can sometimes trigger acne-like breakouts, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.

What is the downside of Fraxel?

The most common side effects of Fraxel are pain, swelling, and redness, but they resolve quickly. Also, peeling is likely to occur when skin is healing post-procedure. “Infection is always a risk any time the skin barrier is compromised, as happens with laser treatments,” Dr. Marcus says.

Why does my skin look worse after Fraxel?

Fraxel Aftercare & Down Time.

PSA: Your skin will look worse after Fraxel before it looks better, trust the process. Dr Jeremy recommends taking at least a week of down time (or working from home) as your skin may appear red and tender, similar to a skin burn.

What is the best age for laser resurfacing?

Individuals up to their 50s benefit greatly from laser fractional resurfacing treatments. Skin concerns like sun damage and deeper wrinkles are common in this age group.

Can I wash my face after Fraxel laser?

After 3 days, you may begin gently cleansing the treated area with Riversol® gel cleanser twice a day. Continue to apply Aquaphor® moisturizer to the treated area after cleansing. After 3 days, you may apply mineral powder or makeup if desired. If prescribed, continue taking Valtrex; one pill twice a day for 7 days.

How long does it take for collagen to rebuild after laser?

Months 2-6. The magic of collagen rebuilding becomes more apparent in the months following the procedure. Patients often observe a tighter and smoother skin texture as the newly stimulated collagen continues to develop. The skin feels rejuvenated, and the results become increasingly noticeable.

Why am I breaking out after Fraxel?

If the Fraxel came into direct contact with any debris lurking in a pore, your body's healing process has expedited the cleansing process and pushing out the clog now. In other words, any pimples you are experiencing now are breakouts that would have occurred in the future.

What helps Fraxel heal faster?

Essential Aftercare Tips for Fraxel
  • Protect Your Skin from the Sun. Sun protection is one of the most critical aspects of aftercare following Fraxel. ...
  • Keep Your Skin Moisturized. ...
  • Avoid Picking or Scratching. ...
  • Stay Hydrated. ...
  • Use Gentle Skincare Products. ...
  • Avoid Makeup for the First Few Days. ...
  • Manage Swelling with Cold Compresses.

When do you see full results of Fraxel?

Fraxel works by heating up tissue so the body can lay down collagen. You need to wait 2-3 weeks between treatments. And, because it is milder than an ablative treatment, you need to wait several months to see results. It can take up to six months after the completion of all five treatments to see the maximum benefit.

Is it normal for skin to bubble after laser?

Body Response. Blisters after laser tattoo removal are not uncommon. They are, in fact, a common side effect and should not be seen as a complication or mistake during the procedure. When these blisters appear, it's crucial to understand they are part of your body's healing process.

Can you get folliculitis after laser?

The neodymium:aluminum garnet laser has emerged as a generally well-tolerated tool for hair removal; however, some patients develop a folliculitis after treatment, which can limit utility.

How to get rid of laser bumps?

Follicular edema, or hair follicle swelling, is a perfectly natural result of every laser hair removal session. In 90% of patients it has gone in 15 minutes. In rare cases it can last for several days and cause itching. In these cases treatment with Aloe Vera or 1% hydrocortisone lotion is advised.

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