If you’ve ever gone down the aesthetic rabbit hole, you’ve probably come across the word Fraxel. It’s been a long-time go-to for dermatologists and beauty insiders who want to smooth fine lines, fade acne scars, even out skin tone and reverse years of sun damage. Now there’s a new version in town, Fraxel FTX, which brings a few smart updates to the OG skin resurfacer.
In the world of lasers, Fraxel is a fractional nonablative treatment. That means it doesn’t remove the entire top layer of skin like older lasers. Instead, it creates tiny controlled micro-injuries that kickstart the body’s natural repair process. The result is smoother, brighter skin with less downtime. Most people are back to work or real life within a few days.
Featured Experts
- Dr. Rishi Chopra is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
- Dr. Anne Chappas is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
What’s new with Fraxel FTX?
Fraxel FTX still uses the same dual wavelengths as the original—1550 nanometers for deeper concerns like scarring and wrinkles, and 1927 nanometers for surface issues like pigmentation. What’s changed is how those wavelengths are delivered. The new device has a modern console, a lighter handpiece and built-in cooling to make treatments more precise and comfortable.
“As one of just 10 initial beta sites nationwide, my practice had early access to the new Fraxel FTX, and we’ve seen firsthand how its advancements elevate the experience for both patients and practitioners,” says New York dermatologist Rishi Chopra, MD. “The legacy Fraxel Dual has long been a cornerstone in my practice, relied on for prejuvenation, acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, evening skin tone, melasma, sun damage, crepey skin, skin smoothening and brightening and even skin cancer prevention. The FTX builds on that trusted foundation with more efficient energy delivery and cooling technology, enhancing treatment precision, improving patient comfort and ensuring greater consistency in results.”
The other standout is the addition of AccuTRAC technology. “One of the most notable upgrades is the introduction of AccuTRAC technology, which allows for faster, more consistent tracking across the skin,” says New York dermatologist Anne Chapas, MD. “The console and user interface have also been modernized to offer a more intuitive and streamlined workflow.”
Who is Fraxel FTX for?
Fraxel FTX is still one of the most versatile options for people dealing with sun damage, acne scars, melasma, fine lines or rough texture. “One of its medically significant indications is the treatment of actinic keratosis, a precancerous skin condition caused by prolonged sun exposure,” says Dr. Chapas. “It’s my go-to treatment for anyone with a history of sun damage or precancerous lesions.” That balance of cosmetic and clinical power is part of what makes it so useful in practice.
It’s also safe across a wide range of skin tones, thanks to its customizable settings. “It is particularly well-suited for individuals with signs of photodamage, such as age spots, freckles and fine lines, as well as those dealing with acne scars or surgical scars,” Dr. Chapas says.
What about pain and downtime?
Comfort is one of the biggest improvements with FTX. “Our patients have reported a noticeable reduction in discomfort during the procedure,” says Dr. Chapas. The new cooling technology helps minimize heat and inflammation, which often means less swelling and quicker healing.
Expect a few days of redness and mild swelling, followed by some light peeling or flaking. Most people see a glow within the first week, and skin continues to improve over the next few months as collagen builds.
How many Fraxel FTX sessions are needed?
Some people notice a difference after one treatment, but most dermatologists recommend a series of three to five sessions, spaced a few weeks apart. “What’s exciting about the Fraxel FTX is that it’s safe and effective not only on the face but also on the neck, chest, hands and other areas of the body that show signs of aging or sun damage,” says Dr. Chapas.
The Bottom Line
Fraxel just got a little smarter, sleeker and more comfortable to use. Same results, smoother ride.
