Too young for CO2 lasers?

Thank you for your question. I understand you went to a medi spa for a scheduled Fraxel laser treatment session, but a nurse discouraged you to continue saying that you’re too young to have such a treatment. This encounter led to several other questions related to the use of lasers and other issues.You’ve certainly raised a very important question, and I can certainly give you some guidance as to how we help younger patients in our practice. To give you a little information about myself — I am a Board-certified cosmetic surgeon and a Fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, practicing in Manhattan and Long Island for over 20 years. I have used a variety of lasers throughout my practice, including the original CO2 laser that first came out in the mid-90s.It is important to understand that when it comes to treatments like this, the age of the person and the relative age of their skin is certainly a factor. Most of the people who we treat using these devices are usually 35 or older, and people who are dealing with skin issues related to natural facial aging, damage due to smoking, and the like. We also do end up treating people who are in their late 20s, particularly if they are sun worshippers, work as lifeguards, or just simply get too much sun exposure. Their skin will usually photo age considerably more compared to someone who is much older, has the same skin type, but doesn’t spend that much time under the sun.There are a number of different devices that can be applied in a very specific way to treat people for specific problems so it is important to identify the problem, identify the least potentially destructive solution, and the most beneficial solution. Currently, there is an alarming amount of overzealous treatments done on people, who themselves are overzealous about minimal issues they feel are significant. An example of this would be a younger person getting an unnecessarily aggressive treatment — they can be temporarily tightening their skin with a very aggressive radiofrequency procedure, but in the long run, they may be damaging and overheating their skin and losing precious fat volume that gives their face a youthful appearance.At this young age, the key is to do as little as possible. There are a lot of options that are not as aggressive that you can consider. In our practice, we have something called the HydraFacial®, which is a combination of glycolic acid and water delivered via a microdermabrasion-type technology. It is very safe and much gentler on younger skin. It is also superficial, so that the skin looks better without long-term permanent risk.I think the nurse who discouraged you from continuing with the Fraxel laser treatment was certainly doing you a service by helping you avoid an unnecessary and aggressive procedure. That said, I would advise you to meet with experienced physicians who have a lot of experience in working with a wide range of age groups. Find a doctor who you are comfortable with, who understands your concerns, and then learn about your options. I think the right doctor will likely guide you and help you avoid doing more than you need. If you have any other issues, you needn’t worry, as there’s plenty of time when you are much older to do more aggressive procedures.I hope that was helpful and I wish you the best of luck!

I would begin treatment with Melarase cream twice daily followed by light chemical peels and Clear and Brilliant laser. CO2 and Fraxel may be too powerful for you at this point. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian#realself100 Surgeon

This answer depends upon the biological appearance of your skin.  Some twenty year olds have the appearanceof their skin which looks 10-15 years older.  Also, what is your objective?  Do you have definitve problems with your skin such as acne scarring.  In other words, there has to be a reason in your mind for seeking laser treatment otherwise, why do the treatment.    Its best to get a consultation from a plastic surgeon for personal evaluation.