Will microdermabrasion help remove scars from laser treatment? (Photo)

Question

I was badly scarred after a laser treatment to remove facial hair. 4months have passed since the treatment and I now have brown patches where the scars used to be. I tried using a prescription cream which the dermatologist said would help, but didn't. I tried a microdermabrasion once and saw a slight change. Is it advisable or? Thank you for your help. (I'm 47 years old with very few wrinkles.)

Lenore Sikorski, MD · Answer

How long did you use the prescription cream? If the prescription cream was a hydroquinone cream you need to use it at least twice daily for about 3 months. It is also very important to use sunscreen at least SPF 30 daily. In my experience, I have not found microdermabrasions to be too helpful for hyperpigmentation issues.

Joshua L. Fox, MD · Answer

There are
definitely different options that can be used to try to help with hyperpigmentation.
Microdermabrasion as well as chemical peels can both be effective but with both
treatments it takes multiple repeated sessions to achieve optimal results. For
many patients it can take anywhere between four to six sessions. Whichever
treatment option you would plan on doing I'd recommend going very slowly and
cautiously so that you actually improve the condition and not worsen it.

Cheryl M. Burgess, MD, FAAD · Answer

There are different technical devices to remove hair. Some are true lasers and others are light devices. light devices should not be used in paitnets with a little pigment in their skin due to burns and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. I would need to know what device was used for your hair removal before commenting on the treatment necessary to blend the complexion.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Microdermabrasion may help minimally. Microderm only affects the very surface layers of the skin. So if you have deeper pigmentation, which most burns are, then you will need something stronger, such as the hydroquinone cream your physician probably prescribed. Burns take a very, very long time to heal no matter what. You also need to make sure you are wearing good sunscreen every day and keeping these sites away from too much sun. Burning them is going to make them much worse. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and 
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person 
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

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