Is fractional CO2 laser resurfacing safe?

Hi! Thanks for your question. For those with darker skin, there is a risk of pigmentation and scarring with a CO2 laser. I would see a cosmetic dermatologist who can better assess your skin type and concerns and determine whether this is the best option for your situation. There are other types of non-ablative lasers that don’t carry the same risk of hyperpigmentation for darker skin tones.

This is difficult to answer without pictures. Yes, using Co2 carries the risk of pigmentation and scarring, especially in darker skinned people. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist to determine if this treatment is right for you and it can take a few sessions with Co2 to see improvement. Lasers like Co2 work best in combination with sculptra and microneedling/PRP in order to improve the skin's texture and collagen. After Co2, I recommend adding  fraxel lasers, microneedling/prp and radiofrequency treatments. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Thank you for your question anonymouspatientinfo01. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is an
outstanding treatment that can address multiple aspects of aging in a single
treatment. The biggest risk after a treatment is hyperpigmentation. For my patients with darker skin types or who tend to tan easily I recommend using a good skin care regimen including products such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, retinoids, hydroxyl acids, vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid, and sunscreen for 1-2 months prior to the treatment to minimize the risk of hyperpigmentation. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations.
Good luck!

Thank you for a good question. I have both of these lasers in my practice, and you are correct to worry about treating your darker skin type. Without actually examining your face it is difficult to give you the answer, but if your skin is a Fitzpatrick III or above, neither laser would likely be recommended. But the risk is not one of scarring, but of de-pigmentation -- both these lasers will lighten dark spots in light skin, but might lighten your overall dark skin more than you would like--and once lightened, there is no "going back". Confer with an experienced plastic surgeon (preferably one who uses both lasers) about your skin type (darkness), to see if you can be helped (and even if your skin is a Fitz Ii, I would probably recommend the Fraxel --even though it would take 4 treatments--as the likelihood of depigmentation of a severe degree with this laser would be far less than with the fCO2). Good luck!