Which fractional laser is the most effective for targeting my needs? 27 y/o with brown spots, large pores and texture (photo)

Question

Hello im female and 27 with some skin poblems im looking to address. I have brown spots, increased and enlarged pores, increased texture that makes me look like ive smoked cigarettes for the past 10 years, fine lines, wrinkles, volume loss, redness, acne scars... there are so many modalities out there and it makes it confusing for us simple folk to make a decision and invest. I would like to try laser. Which fractional Co2 is the most effective and safest? Thoughts on traditional co2? Thank you

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For unique cases where a variety of modalities could be used to treat the condition, I would suggest an in person or virtual consultation to develop a custom and effective treatment plan.  It is difficult to precisely define the best option without collecting the same information. I suggest reaching out to an expert for a consultation with surgical and non-surgical methods to get a comprehensive option. Best, Dr. Emer.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

It's important to first consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has experience with laser treatments to determine the best course of action for your individual needs and concerns. They can assess your skin condition, discuss your options, and help you develop a customized treatment plan that will help you achieve your goals.

When it comes to fractional CO2 laser treatments, there are a few different options available, including traditional CO2 and newer, more advanced CO2 lasers. Traditional CO2 lasers are highly effective at treating a wide range of skin issues, including fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and acne scars. However, they can also be associated with longer recovery times and a higher risk of side effects, such as hyperpigmentation and scarring.

Newer fractional CO2 lasers, such as the Fraxel laser, are designed to deliver the same benefits as traditional CO2 lasers, but with less downtime and a lower risk of side effects. These lasers use a fractionated beam of light to deliver targeted treatment to the skin, leaving surrounding tissue intact and speeding up the healing process.

Overall, the most effective and safest fractional CO2 laser for you will depend on your individual needs and concerns. Your dermatologist or plastic surgeon can help you determine the best option for your skin type, as well as provide you with advice on how to prepare for the procedure and how to care for your skin after treatment to maximize the benefits and minimize any potential side effects.

Diyanah Bani Hani, MD · Answer

I think that a traditional CO2 laser may be more intense than you need to get great results. I would try to find a provider in your area that offers BBL Hero (broadband light) and Halo. The BBL is great for sun spots, redness and other forms of sun damage. Halo is an ablative and non-ablative laser which means great results but with much less down time. It’s is amazing for textural concerns and can be done during the same visit with your BBL. Talk to your provider about what they recommend but you will likely want at least one Halo and 3 BBL treatments. Hope that helps!

Which fractional laser is the most effective for targeting my needs? 27 y/o with brown spots, large pores and texture (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Laser Options for Texture and Sun Damage

Answer: Laser Options for Texture and Sun Damage

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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

Which fractional laser is the most effective for targeting my needs? 27 y/o with brown spots, large pores and texture (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Laser Options for Texture and Sun Damage

Answer: Laser Options for Texture and Sun Damage

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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