Question:
I am a woman with a darker complexion. I have bad acne scars and am interested in laser skin resurfacing. Will I have any problems with hyperpigmentation?

Answer:
Patients with darker skin have an increased risk of pigmentation changes after any resurfacing procedure. Although early hyperpigmentation may be a problem, long term loss of pigment is more likely. Choosing to undergo such a procedure should be carefully considered with your doctor’s advice.

Question:
There are so many different types of laser skin resurfacing procedures out there that it can get very confusing. What laser procedures do you perform and what are they best at treating?

Answer:
We have been using a fractionated carbon dioxide (CO2) laser for facial resurfacing. This type of laser allows for a fairly quick return to normal life, yet provides treatment of fine wrinkles, skin pigment irregularities, and some degree of tightening.

Question:
What is the recovery like after a laser skin resurfacing procedure?

Answer:
After using a carbon dioxide fractional resurfacing laser a patient can expect redness, swelling, and peeling for 4-5 days. After the initial few days makeup can be worn over the skin, which will be pink in the treated areas for another two weeks. The results of the resurfacing laser should be smoother skin, less superficial wrinkling, and more even pigmentation.