How Do I Know if I'm Being Duped by My Dermatologist?

Hello, I have been receiving treatments with the Sellas-evo laser. My doctor told to come in twice before a session and once after to do a vitamin/collagen facial which will boost cell growth under the skin surface. These facials run me an additional $100 each!! She said that it is crucial to get this facial especially after laser treatments or else the cells won't generate properly and it will form deep cracks in my skin. Will this really happen? Or is she using my fear to be opportunistic?

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by JaneDee in Long Beach, CA

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Re: Post Laser Recommendations By Dermatologist

Because of situations like yours, I feel it is important for patients to really educate themselves on how various cosmetic skin procedures work to give results. With this knowledge, it becomes easier to make informed decisions and discern what is legitimate and what is not. Lasers basically heat the dermal layer beneath your skin's surface. Heating this tissue in a deliberate fashion causes the skin to produce healthy new collagen fibers in an attempt to heal itself. Using the... more

Vitamin facials are not proven to be necessary after facial laser resurfacing

After the most aggressive laser resurfacing techniques of the past, most patients healed beautifully well after medically recommended regimens were used by our patients. This included the proper cleansing and emollients. Aquaphor and other ointments and salves were recommended. Never have I heard of vitamin facials being required to prevent cracking which would cause permanent scarring. Run, don't walk, to a board-certified dermatologist for a second opinion of... more