Thinking about CO2 fractional lasers for dark circles

Fractional CO2 laser is an excellent tool for skin rejuvenation in our center in Santa Monica. We use the fractional multi-depth ablative approach to help resurface the skin, recontour acne scars, improve incisional plastic surgery scars, and reduce surface irregularities from skin tone to dark pigmentation. Our approach utilizes a multi-depth approach that targets melanocytes in the epidermis and collagen fibroblasts in the dermis. This approach can be combined with a TCA Peel in a process known as a sapphire peel. Fractional laser is excellent for acne scars and contour scars in the skin. Patients are advised to undergo skin protocols with Melarase creams before and after treatment to help reduce pigmentation. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. After the laser, we expect redness for a few weeks as the skin improves. PRP and Hydrafacial enzyme facials can further improve skin quality after fractional co2.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing can certainly be performed to help with lower eyelid aging, however it's main benefit will be in tightening the skin. Dark circles under the eyes may be the result of shadowing from bagginess, hyperpigmentation, or hypervascularity that is visible through the thin lower eyelid skin, and often a combination of these.  Often, other lasers maybe used in combination, or instead, based on your individual anatomy and skin,  and fillers/surgery may also be considered.  Best wishes. 

Co2 can be used on the eyes. For dark circles, I recommend a combination approach with lasers, microneedling/prp and fillers to get the most improvement. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Thank you for your question! As long as you wear protective eye shields, you should be fine.  We use metal goggles at our practice as protective eye shields, so any laser that gets beamed towards your eyes will be reflected off the goggles.  I hope this helps and good luck with your treatment!
All the best,

Dr. Bobby

Thank you for your question. Instead of the CO2 fractional laser, I would recommend using the PicoSure laser. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of scars and dark spots. It works by aiming short bursts of laser energy into your inner and outer tissues. This helps to eliminate red spots, dark spots and scarring. It also helps to cleanse the pores and encourage healthy skin through the production of collagen and elastin. For more information, I recommend getting a in person consultation with a board-certified dermatologist. 

Thank you for your question enia. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is an outstanding treatment that
can address multiple aspects of aging in a single treatment. Around the eyes, the laser can help tighten the skin and possibly help lighten the skin. Depending on the individual fillers may also be beneficial under the eyes. When we perform such treatments around the eyes we use intraocular eye shields for safety. If done appropriately there is little cause for concern. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!