I had a CO2 Laser session 12 days ago for my acne scar on my cheeks and nose, but still have redness and discoloration? (photos)

Question

is It PIH or is there is risk to get PIH ?? I have skin type 3

Warren Schutte, MD · Answer

Still noting redness/discoloration to skin at 12 days post CO2 laser is very typical, and expected. We typically educate patients to expect to have extreme redness/swelling/sloughing/pinpoint bleeding for the first 2-5 days post CO2 laser followed by bright red skin for another 10-14 days and then a gradual return back to normal skin pigmentation and texture as the post op weeks continue.

Patrick Flaharty, MD FAACS · Answer

Your photographs show typical erythema 12 days after laser resurfacing. PIH is fairly common in Type III skin but usually does not show up for until roughly 3 weeks post operatively. The PIH is more brown in color and can last for several month. You can be reassured that PIH is temporary and can be treated with bleaching creams to help resolve the excessive pigmentation quicker.

I had a CO2 Laser session 12 days ago for my acne scar on my cheeks and nose, but still have redness and discoloration? (photos)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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I had a CO2 Laser session 12 days ago for my acne scar on my cheeks and nose, but still have redness and discoloration? (photos)

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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