Demarcation line after fully ablative laser resurfacing. What can be done in future to blend the demarcation line?

Question

Hello, 3 weeks ago i did fully ablative laser resurfacing only in the area that is marked on photo( jawline) because only there i have a scar. Now i can see the difference between lasered and non lasered skin. My specialist tell me it will blend on it s own in several months. But i am thinking could it be permanent? What can be done in future to blend the demarcation line? Thanks

Mark Hamilton, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and for sending images. You really are early in the process, so you do need to give things time. If the line of demarcation persist, you can try to blend it with either bleaching agents or a  medium depth chemical peel to the surrounding areas. Try to give things time and if this line does persist at 6 months, consult with your physician about these and other options.

Diane I. Duncan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question! I usually try to 'feather' the edges so that the area blends a little more.  However, it is still early in the healing process so let your skin take some time to heal (try for 6 weeks) and see where it is then!

Karen Leong, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. While it would be helpful to know what type of laser you had done (was it CO2?), generally we can say that at 3 weeks you are still healing and should not expect to see the final result for some time yet. When it comes to collagen stimulation and color improvement for scar treatment, I tell my patients that it can be 3 months or more before the treated area begins to fade into the remainder of your skin. Scars themselves take up to a full year to heal. Remember that ablative laser means that the entire top layer of your skin was blown off and that it takes time for the new skin to develop and mature to match the rest of your face.I would follow your provider's advice, but you could ask if there are products that may help speed the recovery process such as Alastin's Nectar and absolutely protect yourself from the sun. As an Asian, you are prone to hyperpigmentation after laser treatments.I hope this helps. - Dr. Leong

Lichun (Li) Huo, MD · Answer

HI!  I do not know the specifics of your laser machine, however, you are only 3 weeks out from your procedure.  It is too soon to see what is permanent and what isn't.  I agree with your specialist in that it may take some time (3 months in my opinion) to see final results.  In the meantime, adhere to a high quality skincare regimen comprised of Vit C (and other antioxidants), mineral sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, a retinol for night, night cream with peptides and/or hyaluronic acid.  Good luck!Dr. Huo

Demarcation line after fully ablative laser resurfacing. What can be done in future to blend the demarcation line?

Answers (4)

Answer: Post op

Answer: Post op

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Demarcation line after fully ablative laser resurfacing. What can be done in future to blend the demarcation line?

Answers (4)

Answer: Post op

Answer: Post op

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Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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