CO2 laser & Fitzpatrick type 4 - 5 skin tone, is this safe?

Question

Hello. Looking to get fractional co2 laser (ultrapulse co2 fractional laser) done on my skin. I am a fitzpatrick 4-5 skin tone. Is this safe? I have requested the lowest possible settings (low density and low number of passes). I am also using antiviral and antibacterial before. Am I still at risk for permanent hypopigmentation/hyperpigmentation, or am i safe using this gentle approach despite being darker.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI are at a higher risk for complications with fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, including hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) and hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin). The risk of these complications can be reduced by using lower energy settings, as you have requested, but it's important to understand that there is still a risk of these complications, even with the lowest settings.

To help minimize the risk of hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation, it's important to choose a qualified and experienced practitioner who is familiar with treating patients with darker skin tones. They will be able to assess your skin type and customize the treatment to your individual needs, including adjusting the settings to the appropriate level for your skin tone.

In addition to choosing an experienced practitioner, it's also important to take proper care of your skin before and after the procedure. This includes avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen, avoiding any harsh skin products or treatments, and following the aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner.

Overall, while there are risks associated with fractional CO2 laser resurfacing for darker skin tones, it can still be a safe and effective treatment option when performed by an experienced practitioner and with the appropriate precautions taken.

I hope this helps,
Best of luck !

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

First, it would be helpful to know exactly what problem you are treating. Nevertheless, let me repeat what I have been cautioning my regular followers about for quite a few years already. Despite the heavy marketing and social media hype to promote relatively expensive fraxel lasers (and RF devices, as well, for that matter), the hard science to back up the claims for these "bells and whistles" gizmos unfortunately lags far behind the hard science to justify them. So, "buyer beware."  On an additional note, directly to your question, the more pigmented, the person's normal. the more pigment there is to absorb the laser light and thus the greater the risk for dyspigmentation problems, either hypoppigmentation or hyperpigmentation, both of which can be long-term or permanent. If you are treating acne scars, there are methods, such as Field Subcision, individual subcisions, and TCA CROSS, each of which has a several decades' long track record for safety and efficacy in ALL skin types You wold be wise to make sure to consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist before simply jumping into the deep end of the pool. Best of luck.

CO2 laser & Fitzpatrick type 4 - 5 skin tone, is this safe?

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CO2 laser & Fitzpatrick type 4 - 5 skin tone, is this safe?

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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