Treating Acne Flare 2-4 Days Post Fractional Co2?

I had fractional CO2 treatment on my face/neck. I started antiviral Valacyclovir (twice a day) 2 days post & antibiotic Cephalexin 500mg one day post. Cetaphil cleanser and Aquaphor three times daily. Noticed small pustules forming around my mouth, nose, cheeks, and neck. Many more are forming. How do various doctors address 2-4 post treatment?

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by Laserbound in San Francisco, CA

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Pustules after fractional laser treatment

There are two primary reasons why you might have a pustular eruption after a fractional laser treatment: Most likely it's from the occlusion ointments, like Aquaphor, that are used to help heal the skin after the treatment. We do need and use occlusive ointments to help repair the intentional wounding the laser treatment does to the skin. It's the repair process after the wounding that gives the results of diminishing wrinkles, sun damage and acne scars as well as... more

Acne can happen after Fraxel

Acne can occur after the Fraxel laser usually as a result of using aquaphor or other occlusive ointments on the skin after the Laser. The milia or acne is easily treatable and fill not interfere with anticipated excellent results. I put all of my Fraxel patients prophylactically on Valtrex to prevent cold sores. It is best to find a board certified dermatologist to consult with who has a lot of experience with Fraxel. see video

Acne outbreak after CO2 fractional laser

I place most of my patients on valtrex prior to laser skin resurfacing to reduce the risk of cold sore outbreaks. Sometimes the product that you use to occlude the skin (aquaphor, vaseline, etc) after the resurfacing is the culprit for acne flare ups. Continue on the plan your physician puts you on and hopefully you will see the outbreak diminish and return to healthy younger skin. My patients are very pleased with the CO2 results and I wish you a quick recovery and the many benefits this... more

Michael Elam, MD

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Orange County Facial Plastic Surgeon

michaelelammd.com

Acne outbreaks after Fractional Laser

Acne flare-ups may be seen after fractional laser resurfacing as the oil glands in the skin recover from the laser damage. While I put all of my patients on anti-viral medicines, such as acyclovir or valacyclovir, in order to decrease the risk of cold sores, I typically do not prescribe antiobiotics for acne. If my patients look like they may be developing an outbreak, then I like to use Doxycyline 100mg once a day until it resolves. One thing that you should look at is if you may be putting... more