Is it normal to have larger pores and worse scars after laser deep CO2? (Photos)

Question

I had acne for many years, worse at different times. I am now almost 40 and some scarring was inevitable. After a first session of deep CO2 my skin seemed to improve. After 6 months I had another acne burst (stress related), and went back for another session + a month of tetracycline. During this second session the doctor double passed over the worse spots. Yet... now my pores look larger, some scars even deeper. Why did this happen and how should I fix it?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Keep in mind, it can take several weeks for laser results to settle. I recommend following up with a cosmetic dermatologist for a formal evaluation and after care recommendations. I recommend skin care with vitamin c, b5 hydrator, silicone based scar gels with growth factors and enzymatic washes with papaya enzyme to give improvement. Sun protection is essential. Lasers like Co2 work best in combination with other treatments in order to improve the skin's texture and collagen. After Co2, I recommend adding fraxel lasers, Cosmelan, microneedling/prp and radiofrequency treatments. Best, Dr. Emer

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photo. The CO2 laser works best with a combination of treatments such as peels, facials and microneedling. Always make sure you seek treatment from a board-certified dermatologist.

Matthew Elias, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Were you on the tetracycline antibiotic while having the laser treatment done or was it stopped prior?  There can be a multitude of issues here including settings, photosensitivity, etc.  Please follow up with your Board Certified Dermatologist who treated you for further evaluation and management.  Regards, Dr. Matt Elias

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Is it normal to have larger pores and worse scars after laser deep CO2? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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