Do I need to interrupt daily application of Retin A before laser resurfacing for acne scars?

Question

Treatment for acne scars with Laser Resurfarcing scheduled for next week. Have been using RetinA daily for a year, obtaining quite an improvement (although I get a small spot every now and then and continue having oily skin + a few stubborn microcomedones).

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Retin-A is permitted to be applied on your face before laser skin resurfacing. My suggestion is to follow your surgeon's list of permitted pre-treatment steps, medicines and treatments. I suggest you consult a board certified facial plastic surgeon
to receive the highest quality knowledge, treatment, care and skill available.

A consultation provides you the opportunity to relay your
concerns and desired outcome to the surgeon while the surgeon can assess your
health profile and discuss his/her pertinent advice.

Douglas Wu, MD · Answer

There is no peer-reviewed evidence to suggest that topical Retin-A has any negative effect on laser resurfacing for acne scars.  I do not counsel my patients to discontinue prior to the procedure.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

You do not have to stop the Retin-A.  We thought in the past that using Retin-A might actually speed up the healing process since it gets the skin turning over more rapidly, but this is probably not true.  So we used to have everyone use retin-a beforehand.   Had no issues with those that were using it versus those that weren't.  IF you are doing an ablative laser, the top layers of skin are all coming off so won't make a difference if you are using.  Just can't use for a while after until the skin is totally healed.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I only limit retin A use before peels or IPL, using retin A doesnt affect laser treatments in my opinion.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Morris Westfried, MD · Answer

Retin a is drying and stopping one week prior to resurfacing wil not effect the procedure. After the procedure follow instructions and wait a minimum of 6 weeks before restarting every other night.

Do I need to interrupt daily application of Retin A before laser resurfacing for acne scars?

Answers (8)

Answer: Retin A And Lasers

Answer: Retin A And Lasers

Answer: Stop now

Answer: Stop now

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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

Do I need to interrupt daily application of Retin A before laser resurfacing for acne scars?

Answers (8)

Answer: Retin A And Lasers

Answer: Retin A And Lasers

Answer: Stop now

Answer: Stop now

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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