Will C02 help fix mottled hypopigmentation after IPL treatments? (photos)

Question

I am Latina with fair sking type. Have done ipl a year and a half ago to fix my sun damage lentifico problem unfortunately I feel i made the problem worse by getting a burn type pigmentation that was not there before. I went back to my dermatologist and she suggested more ipl. I have done two more sessions this year. But the problem is still there. Will co2 laser resurfacing help fix the problem. Or what can be a better option. Thanks

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional CO2 laser is an excellent tool for skin rejuvenation in our center in Santa Monica. We use the fractional multi-depth ablative approach to help resurface the skin, recontour acne scars, improve incisional plastic surgery scars, and reduce surface irregularities from skin tone to dark pigmentation. Our approach utilizes a multi-depth approach that targets melanocytes in the epidermis and collagen fibroblasts in the dermis. This approach can be combined with a TCA Peel in a process known as a sapphire peel. Fractional laser is excellent for acne scars and contour scars in the skin. Patients are advised to undergo skin protocols with Melarase creams before and after treatment to help reduce pigmentation. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. After the laser, we expect redness for a few weeks as the skin improves. PRP and Hydrafacial enzyme facials can further improve skin quality after fractional co2.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Nadir Qazi, DO · Answer

I understand your concerns about mottled hypopigmentation following IPL treatments. CO2 laser resurfacing can be a potential solution to address this issue, as it aims to promote collagen production and improve skin texture. However, it's crucial to approach this cautiously, considering your fair skin type and the history of pigmentation changes.

Before proceeding, I recommend consulting with a skilled dermatologist or laser specialist who can assess your skin, evaluate the existing pigmentation, and determine the best approach. CO2 laser can indeed help with pigmentation and texture concerns, but they might suggest alternatives like fractional lasers or combination treatments tailored to your specific needs. A comprehensive evaluation will guide you toward the most suitable and effective treatment to achieve your desired results while minimizing potential risks.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

You have already literally experienced dyspigmenatation from the light treatments you have gotten, so I would suggest caution in undergoing any fuirther light-based treatments, such as the C02 laser  You may wish to consider professionally performed manual microneedling (no need for the added expense and risks from RF microneedling) accompanied by the application of prescription blanching medications. You would be wise to consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist, rather than relying on testimonials gleaned for this or that "next big thing" laser or other energy-based devices found on Dr. Goodle or Dr. Instagram. You would be wise to make certain to consult a board certified cosmetic dermatologist. Best of luck.

Juan Guillermo Breton, MD · Answer

Every case is different and we have to check your skin type to adjust the parameters of a laser resurfacing treatment to manage pigmentation issues, also we also could combine it with topical treatments to get better results.

Will C02 help fix mottled hypopigmentation after IPL treatments? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Resurfacing hipopigmentation with laser

Answer: Resurfacing hipopigmentation with laser

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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Will C02 help fix mottled hypopigmentation after IPL treatments? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Resurfacing hipopigmentation with laser

Answer: Resurfacing hipopigmentation with laser

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.