Is it necessary to have microdermabrasion after CO2 fractional?

Question

A provider I spoke with told me that I would need to schedule a microdermabrasion session with her 1-2 weeks after CO2 fractional. The problem is I’m moving out of the city after the fractional. So she strongly advised that I find a microdermabrasion treatment in the city I’m moving to. Is this necessary? What would happen if I forego the microdermabrasion treatment? I’m F/37/Fitzpatrick III

Donn R. Chatham, MD · Answer

Fractional lasers can vaporize skin cells, but a' fraction' of the surface rather than 100%. This technique is less painful, safer and provides quicker healing, compared to 100% ablative procedures. Healing can be as fast as 5 days visually, allowing the patient back into 'visibliity' without looking frightening. Microneedling is less aggressive than fractional laser therapy and would seem to be a less effective choice for optimal skin improvement.

Tracy Katz, MD · Answer

The short answer is no. For my fractionated CO2 laser patients I usually do greasy wound care for a week at least with vinegar soaks for 48 hours. At 2 weeks post laser the skin is usually fully healed and maybe slightly pink. At that point if everything is healed I recommend resuming the regular skin regimen. Some people may get some milia after this laser which is why I'm guessing your doctor suggests the microdermabrasion? Maybe ask them why you need this. All doctors have their own way of doing things based off of experience.

Is it necessary to have microdermabrasion after CO2 fractional?

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Is it necessary to have microdermabrasion after CO2 fractional?

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Everything you need to know about Fractional Laser

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