Laser Genesis on Tanned Skin?

Question

I recently underwent dermaplaning followed by Laser Genesis. The practitioner did not ask me if I had recent sun exposure and I had recently been on vacation in the Caribbean and my skin was tanned. I am now concerned what this will mean for my skin.

Fouad V. Atalla, MD · Answer

Laser Genesis generally does not effect the melanin in the skin. We typically advise our clients to avoid sun exposure pre and post laser treatments due to the possibility of hyper-pigmentation, but I wouldn't be too concerned of having adverse reaction from Laser Genesis. In my opinion, Laser Genesis is one of the more safer treatments for skin rejuvenation, but I strongly suggest you call and speak to your therapist regarding any concerns.

Simon Liubinas, MBBS · Answer

This is a great question, as your recent sun exposure (exposure to ultraviolet or UV radiation) is often very relevant to laser treatments. Lasers with shorter wavelengths (for example Intense Pulsed Light, or IPL) do have the potential to seriously harm your skin when you have recently tanned or been exposed to UV. Darker skin types (higher “Fitzpatrick Skin Types”) must also be wary of these shorter wavelengths. The energy contained in these shorter wavelengths can cause serious disruption to pigmentation in the skin, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and even burns. 
  
The wavelength used in Laser Genesis is a long wavelength, meaning that the laser energy actually moves past or through your pigment, causing minimal disruption. This is why people with darker skin types, and those who have been recently tanned, can be safely treated with Laser Genesis but not with shorter wavelengths such as IPL. It is always safest to inform your treating dermal clinician or doctor if you have recently tanned, or if you have darker skin and are concerned about how your skin will react to the laser.

Steven L. Greene, MD · Answer

Laser Genesis by Cutera is a micropulsed 1064 treatment.  All patients who receive  laser treatments are at risk of complications when melanocytes (skin pigment factory cells) have been already stimulated to produce more pigmentation. This can invite more pigment production causing post inflammatory hyperpigmentation or burns in the skin.
I hope this is helpful to you.
Steve Greene MD

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