Does the pearl fractional laser work on brown skin? I'm Indian and would like to try this for mild acne scars.

Acne scars are usually characterized within the subtypes of atrophic, hypertrophic, pigmented, or inflammatory. These subtypes of acne scars can be visually discerning in ambient light and can cause significant cosmetic concerns. Indented and atrophic scars require a combination approach to stimulate collagen and elastin, thereby smoothing contour and uneven skin. These are usually combined with lasers and depigmentation protocols to reduce inflammatory hyperpigmentation (Melarase AM and Melarase PM). Our Hidef protocols for acne scars include fillers such as Sculptra, Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane to improve deep acne scars; Vascular lasers to reduce inflammation and post-inflammatory redness and erythema; Fractional lasers to smooth contour and collagen; and Fractional RF to stimulate production of collagen within atrophic scars. Textural improvement and superficial scarring can be improved with Cosmelan peels, TCA Cross for ice-pick scars, deep chemical peels, and fractional CO2. We offer a personalized approach to your combination of scars and a formal evaluation with consultation is recommended to help you achieve your final results. Our plastic surgery office offers subcision and combination TCA Cross to help reduce deeply pitted scars. In terms of pigmentation and skin resonance, we recommend daily use of Melarase AM and Melarase PM coupled with Retinoid creams to achieve brilliant skin.

Best,
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

 This treatment is best for patients with light to medium skin tones and mild tomoderate sun damage are ideal candidates.  I always recommend coming in for a complimentary skin consultation.  I like to make sure of the skins health and to discuss the options best for you. 

Pearl is an excellent treatment for pigment damage in the skin.  With darker skin tones, the heat must be kept at a minimial to avoid additional darkening of the skin.  Pearl is a great is a great option however, additional treatments may be needed to achieve results because the settings must be kept lower.  Make sure you are being treated by someone experienced in working with darker skin tones and ask to review before and after photos.  I would also suggest using a skin bleaching cream for about 4 weeks prior to the treatment to aid in results.  I recommend lytic plus from the Epionce skin care line.  Best of luck!  Doug Forsh, MD

Thanks for your question.  It depends on your Fitzpatrick skin type.  The scale is from 1-6 with 1 being very light to 6 being very dark.  Pearl fractional is recommended for skin types 1-3.  There have been some use in type 4 but at a very light setting.  You may benefit more from the laser genesis which can be used in all skin types and had good results with acne scarring.