Skin dryness and huge pores - Is my skin damaged? How can this be fixed? (Photos)

It sounds like you're experiencing some significant skin changes after your mini lift, CO2 laser treatment, and fat transfer. These procedures can lead to temporary or long-term changes in the skin, and it's understandable that you're concerned. Let's break down what might be happening and how to address these issues.
Is Your Skin Damaged?While your skin might not be "damaged" in the sense of permanent harm, the treatments you've had can affect your skin in various ways. Here’s what might be going on:
1. Dryness After Procedures: - CO2 laser can significantly resurface the skin, and while it’s great for rejuvenation, it can also leave your skin more vulnerable and sensitive as it heals, leading to dryness. - Mini lift and fat transfer may temporarily alter the skin’s appearance and texture as well. These procedures can affect the skin's hydration levels, and post-treatment dryness is a common issue. - Your skin may still be adjusting to the changes made during these procedures, particularly if there has been a loss of volume (fat) or changes in skin elasticity.
2. Visible Pores: - After treatments like CO2 laser or a facelift, the skin might initially tighten but could later show more pronounced pores due to changes in the skin's structure, particularly if there was any swelling or changes in the oil production of the skin. - Pore enlargement can be a natural result of decreased collagen production or even dehydration, which can occur after aggressive resurfacing treatments.
How to Fix Dryness and Large PoresTo address these concerns, you should focus on restoring moisture, improving skin texture, and tightening the skin. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Hydration: - Hydrating serums: Use hydrating products that contain hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. These ingredients help replenish moisture and support the skin's barrier. - Moisturizer: A good moisturizer with a thicker consistency can help lock in moisture. Look for ingredients like squalane or niacinamide to support skin hydration and reduce the appearance of pores.
2. Exfoliation and Pore Refining: - Gentle exfoliation can help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of pores. Look for products with AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids), like glycolic acid or salicylic acid, which help remove dead skin cells without being too harsh. - Regular exfoliation can encourage cell turnover and improve skin tone, helping to make pores appear smaller.
3. Retinoids (Retinol): - Retinoids or retinol can help improve skin texture, promote collagen production, and reduce the appearance of pores. However, since your skin is already quite sensitive, you should start with a mild retinol product and gradually increase the usage. - Retinoids can also help improve overall skin thickness and prevent further visible signs of aging.
4. Moisturizing Facials or Hydrating Treatments: - Consider visiting a specialist for hydrating facials or moisture infusion treatments that can help restore balance to your skin’s hydration levels. - PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) facials may also help promote collagen production and address both dryness and large pores.
5. Consider Laser or Microneedling: - If the pores and texture are persistent, fractional microneedling or fractional CO2 laser (different from the traditional CO2 laser) can help stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture over time. - Morpheus8 is another treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency, which could help tighten the skin, reduce pore size, and improve overall skin tone.
Next StepsGiven the combination of treatments you’ve had (mini lift, CO2 laser, fat transfer), it’s important to allow your skin time to heal and adjust. However, if dryness and large pores are still an issue, starting with a gentle hydrating routine, improving exfoliation, and considering advanced skin rejuvenation treatments like microneedling or PRP could help improve your skin’s texture and overall appearance.
Lastly, consulting with a dermatologist or aesthetic specialist who understands your specific case and skin history will allow them to tailor a plan that works best for you.

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. It sounds incredibly frustrating and disheartening to feel that your appearance has worsened after undergoing a series of cosmetic procedures. Experiencing increased dryness and prominent pores that are difficult to cover with makeup is certainly not the outcome you were hoping for. It's possible that the combination of treatments has affected your skin barrier, leading to increased dryness and the appearance of enlarged pores. I recommend a gentler skincare regimen focused on hydration and barrier repair, potentially including products with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, peptides, growth factors, and other soothing ingredients. Avoid any harsh exfoliants or aggressive treatments until your skin's condition is properly evaluated and a suitable plan is developed. I hope this helps and best of luck!