Have a hypopigmentation reaction to trauma on the skin (sun damage, scars). Could the CO2 laser help remove these? (photo)

Question

I sometimes have a hypopigmentation reaction to trauma on the skin, i.e. as in sun damage and scars that turn white after surgery. I have some of these hypopigmentation spots on my neck and chest. My question is, could co2 laser resurfacing help remove these? Or could it cause more hypopigmentation spots?

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

In  my opinion, treatment with the CO2 laser would not be first line therapy for hypopigmentation. Indeed, ablative CO2 laser has been known to cause hypopigmentation. Narrow wave UVB or excimer laser are specialized wavelengths that are utilized for hypopigmentation. Small areas of hypopigmentation can improve with fractionated erbium laser. Find a laser expert. Ask to see photos.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

the color of these scars are typically permanent. you can use vascular laser like excel v and aerolase, laser genesis and pulsed dye laser to improve the redness around the area or improve the discoloration around the scars; fraxel or clear and brilliant and microneedling to improve the texture of the entire area to blend the scars; but nothing will get rid of the white. medical tattooing and lattisse can be used to inprove the white.  I suggest you see an expert to evaluate this. Best, Dr. Emer.

Have a hypopigmentation reaction to trauma on the skin (sun damage, scars). Could the CO2 laser help remove these? (photo)

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Have a hypopigmentation reaction to trauma on the skin (sun damage, scars). Could the CO2 laser help remove these? (photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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