Does the order of procedures like Thermage and Fraxel matter?

Just wondering: if I plan on doing thermage and fraxel if there is any preferred order. Thanks.

They both do different things but are synergistic.    Thermage, which is a sound wave based technology, delivers heat in a controlled way into the skin which increases collagen formation and tightens existing collagen a bit.

Fraxel is a laser, which is a light based technology,  and Fraxel Dual has 2 different lasers built into it, one more for collagen building and one more for brown spots.

Bottom line – I’ve never seen a research paper that answers that question and combines the two.   Here’s what I think though.   Collagen building takes place over about 3 months.   Maybe it makes sense to schedule those two about 3 months apart so just as the collagen is starting to decline again…..you stimulate it again.

If you have an event you’re aiming for,  do them in the order that’s most convenient for you.   The Fraxel requires about 4-7 days of some “downtime” depending on the settings.   It can increase pigment problems (especially darker skin types)  if there is sun exposure within 4-8 weeks after. The Thermage requires no downtime and can be done safely any time of year and for any skin type.

Hope this helps,  Dr. I

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

Ask me your skincare question!

Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

  • All our content is written and researched by myself.
  • My medical office in Seattle has treated thousands of patients for 15+ years.
  • This site is not affiliated or financially tied to any product, treatment or device.
Ask Me Something
SkinTour Skincare
One of the best investments in your skin is your daily skincare. Why? Because you can prevent many problems with blotchy skin color, lack of glow, texture, some types of acne, and fine lines with good skincare products. You can also correct some of these problems with effective skincare products. Great skincare is often more expensive because quality ingredients are expensive. Some companies spend on research/development which benefits all of us and adds to the cost. Are they worth it? In general - yes! I have handpicked some of what I consider to be the best skin care products, and offer them for sale on SkinTour's shop. This is based on my team and I's testing and research at our clinic. Many of the products are in my own regimen. What could be better than using skin care products a dermatologist uses?!