Would I benefit from fractional laser for dark spots and surfacing? (photos)

Question

After pregnancy I developed pigmentation and acne spots. I was prescribed a formula cream which made my problem worse. The cream deeply peeled my skin layer and caused more dark spot like a burn. Those dark spots appear deeper than my actual skin layer. So the peels spots show very clear in my face with darker color than my original skin color. Can fractional laser be a solution ? My skin type is light.

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

Fractional lasers will almost always help with texture and pigment issues because it "resets" the top layer of skin. However, there are other less invasive modalities, such as IPL or erbium, that can also help with these concerns. If you have not had success with non-ablative lasers, it would be OK to move to an ablative laser with more downtime to fix these concerns. This ablative procedure will come with more down time and cracking/peeling which may or may not your decision to pursue this.

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

Would I benefit from fractional laser for dark spots and surfacing? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Fractional Laser

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Would I benefit from fractional laser for dark spots and surfacing? (photos)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Fractional Laser

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