What is the most effective way to make skin soft and normal, after long-term bad texture changes from eC02 fractional laser?

Question

What is the most effective way to make skin soft and normal, after long-term bad texture changes from eC02 fractional laser? Specifically for skin has a rough, bumpy, and almost sandpaper like appearance not there before the laser, but definitely there after. Does not look like milia, just bad rough coarse texture. Thanks.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest following up with your doctor or a cosmetic dermatologist for a formal evaluation and after care recommendations. I recommend skin care with vitamin c, b5 hydrator, silicone-based scar gels with growth factors, and enzymatic washes with papaya enzyme to give improvement. Sun protection is essential. 
Lasers like CO2 work best in combination with other treatments in order to improve the skin's texture and collagen. After CO2, I recommend adding Fraxel lasers, microneedling/PRP, and radiofrequency treatments. Best, Dr. Emer

Lindsay Sturm, DO · Answer

Great question, thank you!  Often times skin after a laser resurfacing will feel very much like sandpaper until the tissue is flaked off.  I recommend beginning a great skin care routine which includes the use of an exfoliant.  There are several cleansers which contain salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acid or beta hydroxy acid which help to remove any dead skin cells or impurities.  The exfoliation helps to renew your skin and leave your skin looking brighter with a more even skin tone.  There are also several skin care products which contain glycolic acid which can be use at night to help exfoliate the dead skin cells and helps to renew your skin.  I would also recommend good sun protection for your skin as this helps to prevent any further skin damage/sun damage.  I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with a provider to discuss all of your concerns and your goals to determine which products or treatments are best for you and will help you achieve your goals.  Thanks again for your question.  Best wishes, Dr. Lindsay J Sturm

Sheetal Sapra, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Thank you for your question.
Textural changes to the skin can be improved by adjusting your skin regime. Washing your face morning and night with a Clarisonic brush and a wash with some Salicylic acid to help exfoliate the skin, get rid of any impurities and the dead skin cells. Exfoliating renews the skin, clears any clogged pores and helps with the pore size. You could benefit from Retin-A to aid in the cell turnover once to twice a week which helps to renew the skin. Using a physical block and a Vitamin C serum daily will help prevent sun damage, premature photoaging and pigmentation changes. Also, using a micro roller and growth factors nightly will soften any fine lines and wrinkles, promote collagen production and treat any signs of aging. Discuss with your specialist the possibility of starting Genesis laser treatments to help with pore size and stimulate collagen to soften the texture and provide an even and brighter skin. Review any risks or side effects as well as any allergies prior to starting any treatment or product. 
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Sheetal Sapra, MD, FRCPC

What is the most effective way to make skin soft and normal, after long-term bad texture changes from eC02 fractional laser?

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