Still have grid marks 6 weeks post CO2! Will this ever go away? What else should I do? Is this permanent? (photo)

Question

had C02 6 weeks ago and my skin looks brown/ red with grid marks! i am using melarase pm with 2% hydroquinone but dont see any improvment. and i am also wearing 50 spf sunscreen realigiously!  i am devastated:(

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting a picture.  Based on your picture, it looks like whoever did this did not overlap properly.  It looks like the treatment worked as expected within each square.  The problem of not overlapping made the untreated areas extremely visible.  Experience is very important with CO2 lasers.  It should only be performed by an experienced physician.  If something like this would happen in our office, we would retreat you for free.  Best of luck.

Sameer Bashey, MD · Answer

I have done a lot of C02 laser but I've never experienced this. Hopefully you were pre-treated with a comprehensive skincare program and also started a thorough program to prevent pigmentation after the procedure given your skin tone. We perform a lot of C02 and pre and post-treat our patients with creams to ensure pigment is under control. I think it is important for you to go back and see your doctor. Make sure he can address the pigment issues with you and the grid-mark. Most likely, it will fade away with some time but there are creams that can hasten this process.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Dyspigmentation can occur especially in Ethnic skin types, and if the density of laser is too high. Additionally sun exposure, laser passes - technique, pre and post op care all play a role. The best way forward is to see your Specialist who performed this procedure, and he or she can find a way to reduce the grids. The use of gentle lasers such as the C and B, or conservative pico lasers coupled with time, and correct skin care can help. All the best, Dr Davin Lim. Brisbane, Australia.

Still have grid marks 6 weeks post CO2! Will this ever go away? What else should I do? Is this permanent? (photo)

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Still have grid marks 6 weeks post CO2! Will this ever go away? What else should I do? Is this permanent? (photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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