Olive skin - Pearl vs CO2 - is there really that much of a difference?

Question

I have had the Pearl fractional laser done more than 2 times with beautiful results and no issues. The tightening was impressive as well as the diminished lines. I have moved from the area where lasers were abundant, to an area that has limited lasers I found a place that uses CO2 fractional laser, however, the team seems reluctant to treat me reasoning that I have olive skin. Is there really that much of a difference between Pearl and CO2 that I should be concerned?

Brian M. Harmych, MD, FACS · Answer

You may still be a candidate for fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing. However, appropriate caution should be taken in selecting patients for this procedure. Some patients with "olive skin" may still be a candidate based on some other factors, including your history of doing well with the Pearl laser. If appropriate, we occasionally will perform a "test spot" to see how your skin heals from a CO2 laser treatment. Consider consulting with a surgeon or dermatologist that might be willing to perform a test to further determine candidacy. I hope this information is helpful.
Kind regards,
Dr. Harmych

Olive skin - Pearl vs CO2 - is there really that much of a difference?

Answers (1)