How long does it take for skin to return to normal with Erbium Laser Resurfacing?

Question

I'm a male so I'm thinking wearing makeup, for me particularly, isnt really feasible. I was just wondering how long I'd have to wait before skin colour returns to normal (virtually no redness). I'm of Indian decent so I have light brown pigmentation if this is relevant to recovery time at all?

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

Are you doing full erbium or fractionated laser?   Full would take at least 10 days.  Fractionated up to a week depending on how aggressive the treatment.  With Indian heritage, you will be at high risk for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.  At about 3 weeks after a laser, people with darker skin tones may get much darker.  This will fade with time, but often you will need some sort of bleaching cream to speed up the resolution.  Why are you doing this laser?  Acne scars?  wrinkles?  Depending on  your issues, there may be better lasers.  Make sure you see someone who has a wide variety of lasers available.

Larry C. Leverett, MD, FACS · Answer

Given you are of Indian decent, much care must be given in how you pursue laser resurfacing treatments.  Without knowing what particular concern you are addressing, it is difficult determine which procedure will provide optimal results for you and what degree of redness to anticipate.  However, fractionated resurfacing may be the best option since you have a high probability of hyperpigmentation post procedure. You can expect redness to last anywhere from a week to 4-6 weeks depending upon which type of resurfacing you opt to do and the aggressiveness of the treatment.  It would be to your benefit to pre-treat with a lightening agent at least 2 weeks prior to your procedure and at least 2 weeks after you have fully healed. Sunblock is a must! And be sure to discuss with your provider a home care regimen that will help to promote and maintain your desired result.

Karen Stolman, MD · Answer

With your darker skin, I usually treat with multi passes of the fractionated erbium.  Most people peel for minimum of two weeks, but are pink and sensitive for an additional 4-6 weeks.  Once the peeling has ceased, it is OK to cover up with a tinted sunblock.  The tinted sunblocks are a nice alternative to makeup for men.I would suggest you check with your MD re. your recovery b/c it'll vary depending on the laser setting and how many passes.

How long does it take for skin to return to normal with Erbium Laser Resurfacing?

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How long does it take for skin to return to normal with Erbium Laser Resurfacing?

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Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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