Best Laser Resurfacing Treatment for Asian Skin?

The main risks of laser resurfacing Asian skin is the risk of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and eventual hypopigmentation. CO2 lasers have a greater risk of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation than do Erbium lasers. Flat beam lasers have more risk of PIH and hypopigmentation than do fractional lasers. Ablative lasers generally have more risk of PIH and hypopigmentation than do non-ablative lasers. Therefore, if you need laser resurfacing I would use low... more

Asian skin and other ethnic skin varieties are more likely to develop sun spots vs wrinkles. This is in contrast to caucasians. This predilection is related to varying degrees of skin color. People of color typically have different risks when it comes to anything done on their skin. They are more likely to get darker after any manipulation of their skin so you have to be very careful with ethnic skin. In general, I approach Asian skin conservatively. Laser resurfacing can be done, but the... more

Treating ethnic skin for scar, wrinkles or pigmentation issues is very demanding. You will want to work with either a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has experience treating such skin types. You need to be extra concerned about the risk of burns and bad scar formation. In general, I always start with a low dose, test patch. I typically use a variety of topical medications to enhance the results and protect the skin. Remember, experience is far more important than the system!... more

It all depends on the level of scarring or fine lines. Textural changes do not need as much energy as deeper scars. All treatments have a risk of increasing Asian skin pigmentation and this can last for many months to more than a year, but usually is reduced with time and prescription creams.

The laser is only as good as the doctor using it.  The most important part of choosing a procedure for a patient is to be evaluated by an experienced and knowledgeable dermatologist who discuss with the patient the areas of concern and what are the best options for treating those problems.  If it does turn out that resurfacing is the best option, then there are many things to consider such as:  How much downtime can you afford?  What is your pain tolerance?  Do... more