CO2 laser vs eMatrix for mild-moderate acne scars? Specifically to fade ice pick scars and large pores? (photos)

Question

A Medispa PA recommended a single, full face CO2RE treatment, however I'm wondering if that may be extreme. I don't want my face to be significantly red for months if I can avoid it. I've read that CO2RE patients are ideally in their 30s. What reasons should a 25 year woman old avoid the CO2RE? The PA told me that Sublative Rejuvenation won't make a significant difference. If I'm spending a lot of money on a treatment, I obviously want results.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

CO2 is the best laser for scars, but Erbium is a great alternative. It may take a series of treatments to see improvements and to maintain. Keep in mind that a tailored combination approach will give you the most improvement with acne scars. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced cosmetic dermatologist and acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

For your ice pick scars, TCA cross and punch excision are suggested. For the remainder of your scars, fractionated non ablative (Fraxel Restore) is suggested over e matrix if done in multiple sessions. Fractionated CO2 seems a little aggressive for your type and degree of scarring. I would be careful in picking your physician as fractionated CO2 requires significant expertise.
Jeff Rapaport MD FAAD
Realself All-star

CO2 laser vs eMatrix for mild-moderate acne scars? Specifically to fade ice pick scars and large pores? (photos)

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CO2 laser vs eMatrix for mild-moderate acne scars? Specifically to fade ice pick scars and large pores? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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