Redness persisting 1 year after CO2 laser treatment, is there a solution? (Photo)

Question

I had CO2 laser done for stretch marks on my thighs and lower back, and I am currently using Tazorac and 4% hydroquinone cream but there is still a dark/dull redness persisting in all areas 13 months after treatment. There also is an area of scarring from when I picked at it a week after the laser treatment. Am I stuck with this redness forever or is there a solution?

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

In my opinion, the tazorac and hydroquinone Maybe adding to your problem. Erythema and redness are known to be side effects of tazorac and hydroquinone. Try weaning yourself off of these two medications. In addition you can try a vascular laser, IPL or pulsed light such as Gentlewaves. We have found that all three can reduce redness in post-operative patients.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Tazorac and HQ can cause skin irritation and both redness, dullness and skin discolouration, decease the use by 70% and see what eventuates. If you still have problems, the use of vascular lasers can help. V Beam or Pulse dye laser in a conservative setting is worth a try. All the best, Dr Davin S. Lim.

Redness persisting 1 year after CO2 laser treatment, is there a solution? (Photo)

Answers (2)