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Tetra CO₂ vs. Fraxel: What’s the Difference? And Why Tetra CO₂ Wins at Whitefish Creative Aesthetics
If you’re researching laser treatments to refresh your skin, reduce fine lines, or improve texture, you’ve likely come across Fraxel and Tetra CO₂. While they’re both popular, the differences matter—especially when it comes down to results!
First Things First: Fraxel is a Brand, Not a Technology
Let’s clear this up: “Fraxel” is a brand name, not a type of laser. Think of it like calling all facial tissues “Kleenex” or all toothpaste “Colgate” — it’s common, but not accurate. Fraxel uses a fractional, non-ablative erbium glass laser. It works on more superficial skin concerns but is not the same as a CO₂ laser like TetraPro.
Why Tetra CO₂ (and Our Advanced Tech) Outperforms Fraxel
At Whitefish Creative Aesthetics, we use the Cartessa TetraPro CO₂ system, which includes Tetra, DEKA, and CoolPeel technology—designed for both powerful resurfacing and gentle, no-downtime refreshers, depending on your skin needs.
What is CO2 CoolPeel?
CO2 CoolPeel is an innovative fractional CO2 laser treatment designed to deliver the same powerful resurfacing benefits as traditional CO2 lasers—but without the extensive downtime. It precisely targets damaged skin cells while preserving surrounding tissue, making it a game-changer for skin rejuvenation.
Downtime & Side Effects:
One of the biggest advantages of CoolPeel is its short recovery time—typically just 1-3 days of mild redness and minimal peeling. Unlike other aggressive laser treatments, it offers superior results without disrupting your daily routine.
What is Fraxel?
Fraxel is a fractional laser that creates tiny, controlled micro-injuries to stimulate collagen production. While effective, it tends to require multiple sessions and has a longer downtime compared to CoolPeel.
Comparison Table:
| Tetra CO₂ (Cartessa TetraPro) | Fraxel (Erbium Glass Laser) | |
| Technology Type | Fractional & fully ablative CO₂ laser | Fractional non-ablative Erbium glass |
| Results | Deep collagen remodeling, skin tightening, dramatic resurfacing | Gradual improvement, more superficial |
| Downtime | 1-7 days (customizable with CoolPeel or deeper settings) | 2-4 days, repeated for each session |
| Treatments Needed | 1-3 sessions depending on the concern | 3-5 sessions for similar effect |
| Who Performs It | Only licensed medical professionals (RN or MD) | May be performed by estheticians (depending on state law) |
| Technology Access | TetraPro CO₂ is restricted to medical providers due to its power | Fraxel can often be operated in spas by estheticians |
| Skin Concerns Treated | Fine lines, deep wrinkles, acne scars, laxity, tone, sun damage, uneven texture, pore size | Fine lines, mild pigmentation, uneven texture |
Boosted Healing with Exosomes
We don’t stop at the laser—we use exosomes post-treatment to accelerate healing, reduce inflammation, and boost collagen even further. This makes your recovery faster, more comfortable, and your results even better.
Medical-Grade Expertise
All laser treatments at Whitefish Creative Aesthetics are performed exclusively by our RN or Medical Director. We believe in clinical excellence, safety, and stunning results, and with the growing restrictions in many states, non-medical providers may not even be allowed to operate advanced devices like TetraPro CO₂. That’s why choosing a medically-led clinic matters.
The Bottom Line
Fraxel is a brand; Tetra CO₂ is a technology. If you’re looking for:
- Fewer treatments
- Deeper results
- Faster healing
- Medical-grade care
…Tetra CO₂ (with CoolPeel, DEKA, and exosome therapy) is the clear winner.
We’d love to chat more! Book a consultation with us today!