Orange peel skin - should I get laser or leave my skin alone? Already tried Accutane, tazorac, peels, dermaroller. (Photo)

Question

I used retin a/Tazorac on nose/cheeks for 6 years. I've always had bad blackheads. Orange peel texture appeared 1 year ago. Also had blackheads literally on every pore on body. Took accutane which eliminated all blackheads, but after 2 months I noticed large pores all over face (not just areas with blackheads) so I stopped. Now I am extremely depressed. I am 22 but my parents have better skin than me. How can I repair this damage without making it worse? I am depressed and need help!

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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I find that nonablative lasers, microneedling/PRP and skin care do great for this in my practice. Sculptra injections help increase collagen and promote skin healing and rejuvenation.  I suggest seeing a cosmetic dermatologist with experience.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Orange peel skin - should I get laser or leave my skin alone? Already tried Accutane, tazorac, peels, dermaroller. (Photo)

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Orange peel skin - should I get laser or leave my skin alone? Already tried Accutane, tazorac, peels, dermaroller. (Photo)

Answers (2)

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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.