Best Laser to Reduce Facial Oil/sebum?

Short of Accutane, combination of photodynamic therapy and prescription strength retinoid is probably the best approach to improve oily complexion. You would be best served to go under the care of a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience with photodynamic therapy using Levulan and/or Metvixia.

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. 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

Most skin resurfacing lasers do not affect overall skin oil production. Treatments like Accutane, and topical treatments such as Retin-A, retinols, glycolic acids, benzoyl peroxides, etc may affect oil production. Additionally, I have seen good results with reducing acne using IPL with specific acne-reduction filters. These IPL treatments do produce some drying of the skin, and can be used in conjunction with other topical regimens to achieve very nice improvements in acne reduction.Best,

Excessive oil production may be very frustrating but are not best treated by lasers. We may not have a good therapy for this and some of the topical cosmeceuticals help absorb the oil by using special ingredients.

Laser does not consistent provide excellent results to reduce facial oil/sebum. Patient selection is key. Consult with 3 experienced and expert treating physicians to understand your options.