Persistent pink/red color after a laser procedure.

Hi Dr Irwin, I had fractional laser last year, and after the procedure the top layer of the skin peeled off in a certain area in my cheeks, when this happened, it was extremely red for a few weeks and then it turned to dark pink and has been pink for about 7 months now, I spoke to the dr who did this and he said the pink skin means the skin is just heeling and to give it time. What I am worried about is the length of the time its taking for my skin to heal and become my normal skin color. Is this normal? Is there something I can do to expedite my skin gaining pigmentation? I haven't done fractional ever since. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you so much.

This is hard to answer because there are at least 20-30 different “fractionated” lasers now and they all have somewhat different effects.   Can you write back and tell me exactly which laser? More on Fraxel and more on Co2 lasers. 

Also, sadly, all doctors are not equally well trained.  For a skin problem like this, you really want a board-certified dermatologist, not a plastic surgeon.  Plastic surgeon are generally good at surgery but often have little training in laser procedures generally other then 2-7 day courses.  More on laser problems.

Most dermatologists now get training in their residencies in laser procedures, including  how to deal with complications/problems.   Please see a board-certified dermatologist about this persistent redness.  Generally, persistent redness at seven months indicates a problem.  A second opinion would be a good idea. 

Hope this helps,  Dr. I

 

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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