Glossy skin after dermabrasion - what treatments or cosmetic procedures will improve texture? (Photo)

Question

Six months ago, I had mechanical dermabrasion for acne scars. Currently, the skin in the treated area is still slightly red, but I'm concerned about the shiny appearance of the skin. I don't know if this is due to a poorly performed procedure (too deep) or some healing issues, but the fresh skin (or the scar?) is very shiny by the light. The question is whether this will subside over time, or if there's anything I can do about it. I'm interested in both treatments and cosmetics that improve texture. Currently, I only use dermocosmetics with panthenol and SPF 50.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photo and description, what you're experiencing is not uncommon following mechanical dermabrasion—especially when deeper layers of skin are involved.

The glossy appearance you're noticing is likely due to changes in skin structure after the dermabrasion process, where the epidermis and part of the dermis have regenerated but without the same glandular and textural components. This can lead to a shinier, more reflective surface that may feel smoother but look unnatural under certain lighting.

Here are some considerations and treatment options:
Time & Healing
Six months is still within the window of healing, especially for deeper procedures. Redness and shininess can gradually improve over 12–18 months as collagen remodeling continues.

Topical Options

Silicone-based gels (e.g., silicone scar sheets or gels) can help reduce surface tension and shininess.

Niacinamide and Centella asiatica–based products may aid in barrier repair and texture smoothing.

Avoid aggressive exfoliants or retinoids until the redness fully subsides.

Procedural Options

Microneedling with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) can stimulate deeper dermal remodeling and improve texture over time.

Low-density fractional laser treatments (e.g., non-ablative fractional lasers) may help refine texture and reduce the reflective surface appearance.

CO₂ or erbium resurfacing is not recommended unless assessed in person by a specialist, as it may worsen the issue if the skin is still healing.

Sun Protection
You’re already doing great with SPF 50 — continue strict photoprotection as UV exposure can worsen discoloration and delay healing.

Final Thought:
Glossy or shiny skin post-dermabrasion can improve with time and proper skin care. If the appearance is persistent or bothersome, conservative textural procedures under dermatologic supervision can make a meaningful difference.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser.  Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.  
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Conventional dermabrasion, as well as other very aggressive, destructive treatments, such as CO2 laser, and deep chemical peels are well known causes of this kind of glossy, "orange peel" (peau d'orange appearance to the skin. Without treatment, this problem tends to be permanent.
Fortunately, professionally performed manual microneedling (no need for the added expense and risks of RF microneedling) can help to stimulate new collagen and elastic fiber production, which can help to improve this. Typically, a more penetrating form of microneedling is needed here to achieve the desired results. So, best to seek professional care
You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist. Best of luck.

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