Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Fraxel?
A board-certified dermatologist, a doctor who treats skin problems, or a plastic surgeon can provide laser skin treatments like Fraxel. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Laser skin resurfacing, also called a laser peel, can reduce facial wrinkles, scars and blemishes. As the treated area heals, the new skin that forms is smoother and firmer. Recovery times vary depending on your treatment.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Laser skin resurfacing can improve fine lines or wrinkles around or under the eyes, forehead or mouth. It can also improve scars from acne or chickenpox and aged or sun-damaged skin. Laser treatment can make a scar less noticeable, but it cannot get rid of a scar. It can also reduce scar pain and itch.
How to prepare
Dermatologists suggest these steps before laser treatment.
- Have a medical consultation before any laser treatment.
- Give your doctor a list of the medicines and supplements you take, because your doctor may tell you to stop something for a while.
- Tell your doctor if you get cold sores, have a medical condition such as diabetes, or smoke.
- Dermatologists recommend medicine to prevent cold sores if you are prone to getting them.
- Avoid the sun, tanning beds and sunlamps, because you cannot be treated if you have a tan or sunburn.
- Dermatologists recommend quitting smoking for at least 2 weeks before laser treatment.
What happens during it
A doctor uses the laser to send short, concentrated, pulsating beams of light at the skin. The laser also heats the skin underneath, called the dermis. This works to stimulate growth of new collagen fibers. A type of laser called a non-ablative laser causes no downtime, but you may need a few treatments to see results.
Recovery
Treated skin may react in different ways, but most of the time it will feel like a mild sunburn. You will have some redness and swelling, and you may have itching or stinging for a few days. Some people may have what looks like a severe sunburn, with raw, oozing skin that may blister. Do not scratch or pick at crusts, because this can cause scarring. About five days to a week after treatment, your skin will become dry and peel.
After the peeling, the new skin will be pink. It will gradually lighten over two to three months, and it may take up to a year for the pinkness to go away. After healing, you will need to use sunscreen every day. Use an ice pack during the first day or two to ease swelling and discomfort. Elevate your head with an extra pillow at night.
Risks and side effects
Possible problems include acne flares, bacterial infection, and cold sores coming back if the laser is used around the mouth. The treated skin can become darker, or more rarely lighter. Small white bumps called milia, redness that lasts longer, and swelling can also happen. Scarring is rare, but possible. If the sun hits your treated skin before it heals, you can develop another scar.
Who performs it
A board-certified dermatologist or a plastic surgeon can perform laser skin resurfacing. Your results depend largely on the skill of the person doing the treatment. If that person lacks medical expertise and specialized knowledge of the skin, laser treatment can even be dangerous.
Common questions
Will laser treatment remove my scars?
No, laser treatment cannot get rid of a scar, but it can make one less noticeable. For scars, it can take months to see results, and you may notice little improvement at first.
How long does the skin stay red after laser skin resurfacing?
The new skin is pink and gradually lightens over two to three months, but it may take up to a year for the pinkness to go away. Redness tends to last longer in blondes and redheads.
Does insurance pay for laser skin treatment?
Health insurance generally does not cover the cost of cosmetic treatments.
Will I need more than one laser treatment?
You may need more than one laser treatment. To give long-lasting results and the most improvement, a dermatologist may schedule a series of laser treatments.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Laser Skin Resurfacing
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Laser Skin Resurfacing Recovery
- American Academy of Dermatology - 10 things to know before having laser treatment for your scar
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
