Is Deep Active FX treatment effective to shrink pores? Will Vaseline post treatment block pores further?

Thank you for your question, it is definitely one of the most common requests we get at W Facial Aesthetics, people want smaller pores. There are many different lasers and peels that will cause swelling in the dermis that can temporarily make the pores look smaller but in time the swelling subsides and the pores look the same. When we do Deep FX treatments we prefer to use coconut oil or Crisco until the crusts are gone usually about 4 days. Hope this helps.

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

Good question! Active/Deep FX combo (CO2 full ablative laser) is great for shrink of the pores.  However, as was stated below this is not permanent. The pore and texture is much improved after the treatment. After the treatment we recommend using aquaphor without hesitation because this promotes healing and provides the ablated skin with an appropriate barrier.  This may increase the risk of skin acne but is only done for 3 days then switch to a non pore clogging emollient to promote skin healing.  All the best and look forward to the photos.

Deep Fx is a great CO2 laser setting that works well for fine lines/ wrinkles, acne scars, and large pores. Regardless of what it is used for, you will need to keep things well moisturized. There are several alternatives to Vaseline including Aquaphor and non petroleum based Jelly. We use EltaMD laser balm which is thick and moisturizing but has not been shown to be comedogenic. ANother great option is Epionce Medical Barrier cream- very gentle and great for sensitive skin.