What is the best way to resurface my African American skin, tighten and get rid of dark marks? (Photos)

Question

I keep hearing conflicting information about microneedling, radio frequency, lasers, Vi Peel. I have done some chemical peels (not Vi) but I’m looking for something with more dramatic results with the least chance of hypo or hyperpigmentation or scarring.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis. We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

William Groff, DO · Answer

I appreciate your question. African American skin needs to be treated carefully because it is especially vulnerable to a post-treatment condition known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or PIH. Many lasers are not safe for this skin tone and increase the risk for PIH as well as other complications. Fortunately, there are also lasers that are safe and effective for skin of color. In our practice, I often use a picosecond laser to treat pigmentation issues on darker skin. These lasers feature a rapid-pulse that shatters the pigment without damaging the surrounding skin. I also use the Clear + Brilliant laser for my African American patients, since this is both safe and highly effective in treating melasma - a common condition seen in darker skin tones. My office works with more than 50 laser and light devices, which ensures I can customize treatments to every patient for the safest and most successful procedures and the best results. I encourage you to work with a board-certified dermatologist with expertise in a wide range of skin tones who can personalize your treatment for an optimal outcome.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

this is post inflammatory hyperpigmentation/melasma/discoloration that needs cosmelan or enlighten peels at home which we can do virtually and send to your home along with aerify peels regularly, vivatia foam, restorsea 10x, faith essence serum, and cosmelan 2 cream.

Hyperpigmentation from any type needs a combination approach of peels like cosmelan, enlighten and aerify,  lasers like clear and brilliant and aerolase or laser genesis, radiofrequency like venus viva, and constant skin care and sun protection.  Bimonthly facials with silk peel dermalinfusion is essential to hydrate, exfoliate and infuse vitamins and antioxidants into the skin.  If you have acne you can do additional treatments and peels to get more improvement.  I suggest a formal consultation with an expert in lasers and peels. Best, Dr. Emer.

What is the best way to resurface my African American skin, tighten and get rid of dark marks? (Photos)

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