Would the fractional CO2 or the ‘Mosaic’ laser be better for treating acne scarring?

Dr. Irwin

February 27, 2012

In general, unless your acne scarring is almost invisible, you will get better results with a fractional CO2 system like the Lumenis Active Fx or the DEKA DOT. The ‘Mosaic’ is an...

How do I sort out a complex product problem and acne?

Dr. Irwin

January 8, 2012

Petra  – thank you for writing and I hear your frustration on this.  A couple of general thoughts that may help and then some specifics.   Remember that while products can...

Type IV skin and acne scarring – which treatment is best??

Dr. Irwin

December 21, 2011

My apologies for the delay on this.  I think you wrote in November.  If you have deep acne scarring, I agree with your dermatologist.  You will get much more benefit...

How long do I need to wait after Accutane treatment before I can have my…

Dr. Irwin

December 8, 2011

The short answer is this that if you are thinking full face traditional ablative CO2 resurfacing, then you need to wait a full year.   If you are considering the Fraxel or the fractional CO2...

How do I know if my products are right for me?

Dr. Irwin

October 31, 2011

This is a good question because there really isn’t a meter you can plug in that will tell you.  Generally though, if you skin looks hydrated and not dry or...

What about the home use acne devices?

Dr. Irwin

October 24, 2011

It depends a little on which one but, in general, they can help individual lesions resolve a little faster, when used as directed.  If you’re someone who gets occasional acne...

What is the latest laser technology for acne scars?

Dr. Irwin

October 17, 2011

Here is a link to the article I wrote on fractionated CO2 lasers.  Sometimes in our practice here, we will combine several modalities like subscision, CO2 or Fraxel, and certain fillers...

I’m getting married soon – can you help?

Dr. Irwin

September 21, 2011

Okay – so I’m going to assume that you’ve maximized your products – sunscreen, tretinoin or retinol, and an antioxidant at least. Here are some of my favorite skincare products. Then for fine lines...

What are these tiny bumps on my forehead, neck and chest?

Dr. Irwin

September 17, 2011

Ladies, ladies ……… please remember that to really treat something well, it’s important to know what it is!   This is a situation where you really need your dermatologist because there...

How can I really make good product choices for myself?

Dr. Irwin

September 17, 2011

You bring up a good point because the best skin care really is individual – not a clone of someone else’s plan.  Try thinking about it starting with 3 basic...