Does CO2 help with cystic acne?

Fractional CO2 laser is an excellent tool for skin rejuvenation in our center in Santa Monica. We use the fractional multi-depth ablative approach to help resurface the skin, recontour acne scars, improve incisional plastic surgery scars, and reduce surface irregularities from skin tone to dark pigmentation. Our approach utilizes a multi-depth approach that targets melanocytes in the epidermis and collagen fibroblasts in the dermis. This approach can be combined with a TCA Peel in a process known as a sapphire peel. Fractional laser is excellent for acne scars and contour scars in the skin. Patients are advised to undergo skin protocols with Melarase creams before and after treatment to help reduce pigmentation. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. After the laser, we expect redness for a few weeks as the skin improves. PRP and Hydrafacial enzyme facials can further improve skin quality after fractional co2.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Thank you for your question. It is difficult to say without photos what treatment would work best for you. The Fractional CO2 is generally uses for darks spots and wrinkles. For Acne we use the PicoSure and Aerolase lasers. However, It is best to seek a in person consultation with a board-certified dermatologist.

Thank you for your question rj000. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is an
outstanding treatment that can address multiple aspects of aging in a single
treatment. Unfortunately cystic acne is not one of these. We use the Forever Clear BBL acne laser treatment, which works for all kinds of acne that is resistant to topical products. A series of six weekly treatments is required followed by one maintenance treatment every 6-12 weeks thereafter. Please consult with a doctor for specific
recommendations. Good luck!