Is it possible to perform CO2 laser full ablative or a full ablative Erbium laser on darker skin (acne scars) ?

Question

Hi I have acne scars. Im Indian skinned. So its like type 3 skin to 4. Olive skin . Is it possible to perform full Co2 laser or erbium laser on my skin or do the laser in phases ? If so how ?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Acne scars need a combination approach for long-term improvement. Everyone has a unique pattern of acne scarring, and most people have various types of scars, so we create a tailored treatment plan for each patient. Generally speaking, we often use:- Injectable fillers like Bellafill and Sculptra (with or without subcision) for atrophic, indented scars. - Subcision for depressed, tethered scars. - Vascular lasers like Yellow laser, Aerolase, excel V, or IPL for redness or thick acne scars. - Lasers such as Fraxel, Erbium, CO2 or fractional radiofrequency (Venus Viva, Skinfinity, Intensif microneedling RF) for textural issues and superficial scarring. - TCA CROSS and punch excision for deep ice pick scars and narrow box car scars.- All lasers are combined with microneedling/PRP to improve the results and accelerate your healing time. 
For darker skin types, it is important to avoid strong lasers such as CO2/Erbium and Fraxel as they can cause hyperpigmentation. Instead, scars in darker skin types can be improved with a combination of microneedling RF (Fractora, Intensif, Infini), Aerolase or Laser Genesis, microneedling with PRP, skin lightening, peels like Cosmelan, and a proper skin care protocol (hydroquinone, vitamin c, kojic acid, azelaic acid, retinol). Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Is it possible to perform CO2 laser full ablative or a full ablative Erbium laser on darker skin (acne scars) ?

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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Is it possible to perform CO2 laser full ablative or a full ablative Erbium laser on darker skin (acne scars) ?

Answers (1)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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