Should I get V-Beam or use a lightening cream for this scar? (Photos)

Question

My scar is darker than the surrounding skin. It's been like that for quite some time now from when I was very young and had a large cyst that resulted in this. Scar used to be a hypertrophic scar that is now flat. It is on my upper arm. I would like to look at ways to lighten the scar so it can match my skin. I'm not sure if it's this color because of hyper vascularity or due to hyperpigmentation. Any creams that I can use to make the skin blend in?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This can be improved with a combination approach of lasers (ProYellow, Excel V, VBeam) and microneedling/prp. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

In our office, we have several treatments that can help improve common vascular skin issues, including rosacea, post-inflammatory erythema, red scars, facial blushing, and spider veins. The Vbeam laser continues to be the gold standard for redness, including rosacea and post-inflammatory erythema. In some cases, we add Venus Viva RF coagulation to help improve redness on the skin from spider veins, inflammation, and rosacea. 
  
Generally, several sessions are required to improve redness on the skin. Vbeam laser, IPL Limelight, and Venus Viva all work very well with minimal downtime. 
  
Patients with rosacea may benefit from topical creams to help soothe inflamed skin. We recommend Elevase Moisture Booster. For Post-inflammatory erythema, Plato’s Scar Serum is recommended twice daily. 
  
Best, 
  
Dr. Karamanoukian
  
Realself100 Surgeon

Paul Blair, MD · Answer

The V-Beam is a pulse-dye laser.  If there is redness to your scar which it appears to be, I would expect to see improvement.  It may take more than one treatment.  Microneedling can be an option as well.

Should I get V-Beam or use a lightening cream for this scar? (Photos)

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Should I get V-Beam or use a lightening cream for this scar? (Photos)

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