Redness skin after fractional co2 laser become more red after use - 4% Hydroquinone cream?

Question

I received fractional co2 for 6 weeks, but my skin still redness. I use 4% Hydroquinone for once to treat the redness skin, but my skin become more red after use Hydroquinone cream! Why? And I also wanna to known how long did the redness skin will be fade like this condition? Thanks

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question kammykyc. I
am sorry to hear about your situation. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is an
outstanding treatment that can address multiple aspects of aging in a single
treatment. Redness is common for several weeks after a treatment. Redness can be treated with IPL. Hydroquinone is a brightening agent used for discolorations such as sun damage and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It will not address redness and in fact can cause irritation which may lead to further redness. Please consult with a doctor for specific
recommendations. Good luck!

Anthony J. Wilson, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You must give the redness time to fade. This is incredibly common and normal. What is also common is to have a slight reaction to hydroquinone. I would discuss with your surgeon, but typically we will have you slowly start up the the HQ cream and perhaps start on 2% instead of 4%. Make sure you are providing adequate sun protection (mineral only sunblock) even if you are not going out in the sun. Lastly discuss with your surgeon the option of an IPL treatment or Vbeam (PDL) treatment to help temper the redness. We typically do this at the 6 week point to speed the healing along.

Redness skin after fractional co2 laser become more red after use - 4% Hydroquinone cream?

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Redness skin after fractional co2 laser become more red after use - 4% Hydroquinone cream?

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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