How can I improve my skin health over 1 year after a mini lift and ablative laser? (Photos)

Question

So in April 2024 I had a mini lift and ablative laser . I’ve always looked after my skin however since this surgery I’ve detorated very rapidly skin will not heal ive Had two sessions of polynucleotide , 2 profilo and some prp this year along with fat injections only to temples and under eye . The surgeon says it’s over treating but I had no choice I was in a bad way july Last year it started

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Based on your history and the provided photo, your skin appears to be showing signs of post-procedure sensitivity and possible compromised barrier function. After a mini lift and ablative laser, the skin’s ability to repair itself can be reduced for a prolonged period, especially if multiple additional treatments are performed in quick succession. Over-treating—particularly with energy-based devices, injectables, or aggressive topical actives—can worsen inflammation and delay healing.

Recommendations for the Next 12 Months:

Focus on skin barrier repair – Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser, ceramide-rich moisturizers, and fragrance-free hydrating serums.

Avoid aggressive resurfacing – No more lasers, microneedling, or chemical peels until the skin fully recovers.

Sun protection daily – Broad-spectrum SPF 50+, reapplied every 2–3 hours if outdoors.

Nourishing actives – Gradually incorporate peptides, niacinamide (low concentration), and growth factor serums to encourage repair.

Anti-inflammatory nutrition – Stay hydrated, consume antioxidant-rich foods, and limit sugar and alcohol to reduce skin glycation.

Space out procedures – Allow several months between any minimally invasive treatments to give the skin time to rebuild.

With a conservative and protective approach, the skin’s resilience and appearance can improve significantly over the course of a year.

If you’d like, I can also provide a month-by-month recovery and treatment plan tailored to your case so you can track your progress.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser.  Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.  
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I recommend visiting a reputable med spa near you.  Work closely with the aesthetician to find the right combination of skin care and treatments to help calm your skin. Trying every available treatment is too harsh and will not lead to optimal results.  Working with someone who specializes in skin care is the best way to proceed.

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