Best topical after microneedling or fractionated laser?

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture. Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.

Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hello and thank you for your question.  In our practice, we apply a thin layer if aquaphor.  Aquaphor is 41% petrolatum, this allows oxygen to flow and heal the skin.  Other ingredients are panthenol and glycerin to help mousturize and nourish the skin to enhance healing.  We tell patients to apply a thin layer after washing with ultra gentle cleanser that we provide to our patients.  Do not pick at any loose skin, avoid direct sunlight and use of any retinols for at least 3 weeks post procedure.  Hope this helps and good luck to you!

Great question, thank you.  While vaseline will work there are products which are slightly better than the Vaseline.  Alastin makes several great products for post-procedure care.  The skin nectar and the recovery balm are great to help soothe your skin after your procedure.  Skinceuticals also makes a great cream and serum combo for after care.  The epidermal repair will help to repair your skins barrier function to protect from infection while also hydrating your skin.  The phytocorrect gel is anti-fungal, antibacterial, and anti-viral so it protects your skin from any infections.  Yet the cheapest route is getting Aquaphor cream from any drugstore, Target, or Walmart to use the first few days after your procedure.  This is a great hydrating cream to use for the first few days after your procedure.  It also protects your skin barrier and helps hydrate as well.  Thanks again for your question.  Best wishes, Dr. Lindsay J Sturm 

There are new skincare advances to improve aftercare and results. I recommend a post procedure recovery complex like Alastin Skin Nectar and Alastin Soothe + Protect Recovery Balm for the first week post procedure - its TriHEX technology formulation is designed to support the skin, before, during and after cosmetic procedures. This product works with the skin's natural regeneration process and assists in improving the skin's appearance. It can be applied immediately post-procedure for faster recovery and healthier looking skin.