Desperate for help. Can I have CO2 for hidradenitis on severely damaged skin from IPL? What are my options?

Question

I was severely damaged from IPL over 5 months ago. It has truly destroyed my life. It's not just bad texture. It's made me look truly sickly. No elasticity in my face, sagging skin, zig zag lines, diagonal lines all over my face. It stimulated hair growth and messed up my hair follicles. I now have all the signs of hidradenitis that has progressed very quickly. I am willing to do whatever it takes to get my life back. Please help!

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

I'm so sorry you are going through a tough time!   I would recommend seeing a board certified dermatologist first of all, so they can take a look at your skin and see what options are available.  It is unusual for IPL to cause so many changes, so I wonder if that's truly the treatment you had, or some other type of laser?  You might have had some overly aggressive treatments, but generally IPL is a very gentle procedure and does not cause burns or scarring or dramatic skin changes.  Please see an expert, and good luck!

Desperate for help. Can I have CO2 for hidradenitis on severely damaged skin from IPL? What are my options?

Answers (1)