Feeling like CO2 ruined my young skin (Photo)

Question

32-yo F. Hx: Accutane x 3 with rolling scars remaining. Had an aggressive CO2 laser done 3 years ago for texture, spots, fine lines. Standard healing during the inflammatory phase; no major issues for the first 6 months or so. Now, I'm left with awful texture, hypopigmented grid marks (see photos), and redness. I've done 3 sessions of microneedling to try to improve the grids. Daily regimen includes tret, Vitamin C, and lots of sunscreen. What are my options, if any? :(

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.  Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. 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

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Feeling like CO2 ruined my young skin (Photo)

Answers (1)

CO2 LASER PROVIDERS NEAR YOU