Article
Fraxel vs RF Microneedling for Acne Scars
Acne scars are one of the most common reasons people visit dermatology clinics in Seoul. Two of the leading non-surgical treatments for acne scars — especially textural and indented scars — are Fraxel laser and RF microneedling. Both stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture, but they work in different ways and are suited to different scopes of scarring and skin concerns.
This guide compares Fraxel vs RF microneedling so you can understand how each treatment works, expected results, downtime, comfort, and which option might be best for your acne scar type.
What Is Fraxel?
Fraxel refers to a category of fractional laser devices that create thousands of microscopic treated zones in the skin while leaving surrounding tissue intact. This stimulates a healing response that builds new collagen and healthier skin architecture.
How Fraxel works
- Fractional laser energy creates controlled columns of micro-injury in both the epidermis and dermis
- Intact surrounding skin speeds up healing
- New collagen and elastin form over weeks to months
Types of Fraxel
- Non-ablative fractional laser: gentler, less downtime
- Ablative fractional laser: stronger resurfacing, more downtime, deeper remodeling
Benefits for acne scars
- Improves texture and depth
- Especially effective for rolling and boxcar scars
- Can improve skin tone and pigmentation simultaneously
Typical results
- Noticeable improvement after 2–4 sessions
- Results continue for months as collagen remodeling progresses
Downtime & comfort
- Non-ablative: mild redness for 1–2 days
- Ablative: peeling and redness for 3–7+ days
- Topical numbing helps comfort
What Is RF Microneedling?
RF microneedling combines tiny needles with radiofrequency energy, delivering heat deeper into the dermis while creating micro-injuries. This dual action triggers collagen and elastin production while tightening and remodeling scarred tissue.
How RF microneedling works
- Microneedles penetrate the skin to create micro-channels
- RF energy heats deep dermis, stimulating collagen
- Healing response fills in scars and firms the surrounding tissue
Benefits for acne scars
- Improves surface texture and scar depth
- Good for rolling scars and shallow boxcar scars
- Also enhances firmness and pore size reduction
Typical results
- Often 3–6 sessions spaced weeks apart
- Gradual improvement as collagen builds
Downtime & comfort
- Mild redness and swelling for ~24–48 hours
- Slight pinpoint bleeding or tenderness depending on depth
- Topical anesthesia is standard
Fraxel vs RF Microneedling: Key Differences
Mechanism
- Fraxel: Uses laser to ablate or heat micro-zones of tissue
- RF microneedling: Uses mechanical needles + RF heat in the dermis
Depth & Remodeling
- Fraxel (ablative): Can reach deeper layers for strong resurfacing
- RF microneedling: Delivers heat deeper with needles but generally gentler surface effect
π For deeper resurfacing and pigmentation control, ablative Fraxel can be stronger. For firming plus texture improvement with minimal downtime, RF microneedling excels.
Results Timeline
- Fraxel: Noticeable after a few sessions with improvements continuing over months
- RF microneedling: Gradual improvement over multiple sessions as collagen forms
Downtime
- Fraxel ablative: More downtime (peeling, redness)
- Fraxel non-ablative: Light downtime
- RF microneedling: Mild and shorter downtime (redness ~1–2 days)
Texture vs Firmness
- Fraxel: Excellent at surface texture and scar depth
- RF microneedling: Strong on texture and tightening, also good for pores and elasticity
Who Should Choose Fraxel?
Choose Fraxel laser if:
β You have deeper, wide scars (e.g., deep boxcar or rolling scars)
β Surface texture and tone are major concerns
β You’re okay with some downtime for stronger resurfacing
β You also want pigmentation benefits alongside scar improvement
Fraxel’s ability to resurface the skin makes it a strong choice when scars are pronounced and broad.
Who Should Choose RF Microneedling?
Choose RF microneedling if:
β Your acne scars are mild to moderate
β You want texture improvement with minimal downtime
β You’re concerned about pores or elasticity
β You prefer a comfortable gradual approach
RF microneedling is versatile and safe for many skin types, with less surface irritation and faster recovery.
Can They Be Combined?
Yes — and many Korean dermatologists recommend combining both in tailored protocols:
Example combination plan
- RF microneedling for initial texture and collagen stimulation
- Fractional laser sessions to refine deeper scars
- Scheduled maintenance with lighter sessions or boosters
This layered strategy takes advantage of both surface and deep remodeling.
Aftercare Tips (Korean Clinic Style)
- Sun protection: SPF 50+ every day
- Gentle cleansing: avoid harsh scrubs post-session
- Hydrating serums & barrier creams during healing
- Avoid retinoids or exfoliants until fully healed
- Follow your dermatologist’s regimen strictly
Good aftercare shortens downtime and maximizes results.
Final Thoughts
Fraxel laser can be more powerful for deep, pronounced acne scars and overall resurfacing, especially when pigmentation and texture are both issues.
RF microneedling excels for texture, firmness, and scar improvement with less downtime — great for mild to moderate scarring or those who want repeatable comfort.
Your best choice depends on scar depth, downtime tolerance, and additional concerns like pigmentation or pore size. In many cases, a combination delivers optimal long-term improvement.