Does laser resurfacing remove oil glands?

Question

Hello lovely community! I am considering laser resurfacing soon and I was wondering if laser resurfacing is deep enough to remove any oil glands? I am worried because I have been on isotretinoin/accutane twice and I know it works by reducing the size and activity of the oil glands. Therefore I am worried that if I have this procedure it will cause my acne to come back. (by essentially allowing regular oil glands to grow back and cause acne). Super thankful for any response!

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thanks for sharing your question. Erbium resurfacing will not remove oil glands. It will increase collagen, diminish sun damage and increase elasticity. Make sure an experienced oculofacial surgeon evaluates you and discusses options. Good luck!

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. 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

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello Warmhearted109774

Thank you for your question! My name is Melanie I am a Medical Aesthetician located in Chicago IL at Aesthetic Skin. Laser resurfacing does not target the sebaceous glands. You do not have to worry about the laser interfering with your oil glands and causing the sebaceous glands to begin to produce more oil. I am interested in learning about your skin concerns and reason for wanting to receive a laser treatment. Laser resurfacing is definitely beneficial. I would love to help guide you into the correct laser for you. Please feel free to give our office a call to schedule a virtual or in person consultation, 312-944-0117. We look forward to hearing from you.

Does laser resurfacing remove oil glands?

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Does laser resurfacing remove oil glands?

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Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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