Dear Dr. Seckel, About 6 years ago I had CO2 laser resurfacing. Acne scars were softened and I loved the results. I use Retin-A daily because even at 40, my skin is as oily as it ever was. Now I am viewing pimples and wrinkles. Is CO2 laser resurfacing an option after 6 years? I liked your book and I join all the people cheering that something so clear with the advantages/disadvantages has been published. Thank you so much. Deb, Hampstead, NH.
Dear Deb,
Thank you for the kind words about Save Your Face.
You certainly can have laser resurfacing or laser skin rejuvenation a second time if the skin is healthy and has plenty of oil glands and hair follicles to provide cells to heal the skin surface after the laser peel or laser resurfacing.
However there are many new non-surgical facial skin rejuvenation technologies today that may also be helpful for acne and oily skin and skin contour irregularities.
Retin A is great for helping with acne control. I would also suggest microdermabrasion and possibly brevoxyl washes.
Several new laser skin rejuvenation technologies including Clearlight, Smoothbeam and others can also help with acne control and wrinkle and fine line removal. IPL or photo facial when used with Levulon, a technique called photodynamic therapy is also an excellent laser treatment for acne.
Microlaserpeel with the Erbium laser provide excellent skin exfoliation and can remove wrinkles and requires less down time than the laser resurfacing you probably had 6 years ago. The activeFX laser skin peel is a newer gentleer CO2 laser peel that is also excellent.
I would suggest that you have an evaluation with a good board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist skin care specialist who is experienced with lasers and facial rejuvenation to make a plan. Also check the archives to the right of the screen under the heading 6-step facial rejuvenation program.
For more information on laser skin peels, laser skin rejuvenation and non-surgical facial rejuvenation read Save Your Face or contact me.
Boston, Massachusetts