Dealing with Acne After Laser Treatment: Expert Advice Needed - Dermatology

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Acne issues


Hello, Director Yu-Hsin: I would like to ask about my boyfriend.
He has undergone five sessions of Clear Skin Laser treatment to reduce his acne scars.
Initially, he did not have any acne, but after the treatments, he developed large, red, inflamed pimples.
Given his current skin condition, do you have any recommendations? He has seen a dermatologist who prescribed him Shouyuan and Curative Gel.
My boyfriend mentioned that applying it makes his acne itchy.
Is this due to the retinoid or an allergic reaction? His skin is currently covered with red, pus-filled pimples.
I hope you have some good advice.
Thank you!

Dan Dan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/25

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology


The Clear Skin Laser will not worsen acne, but without actually seeing the lesions, it is impossible to determine the condition.
To provide recommendations and treatment, it is necessary to confirm the type of acne.

Reply Date: 2019/07/25

More Info


Dealing with acne after laser treatment can be quite challenging, especially when the skin reacts negatively to the procedure. Your boyfriend's experience of developing red, inflamed acne after undergoing multiple sessions of laser treatment is not uncommon. Here are some insights and recommendations based on the situation described.


Understanding the Reaction
1. Post-Laser Inflammation: After laser treatments, the skin can become sensitive and inflamed. This is particularly true for procedures like "清膚雷射" (clear skin laser), which aim to reduce acne scars and improve skin texture. The laser can stimulate the skin, leading to increased oil production and potential breakouts, especially in individuals who are prone to acne.

2. A Acid (A酸) and Skin Sensitivity: The use of topical retinoids, such as A酸 (Accutane or other retinoids), can increase skin sensitivity. If your boyfriend has been using A酸, it may exacerbate the irritation and inflammation caused by the laser treatment. This could lead to a cycle of redness and breakouts.

3. Possible Allergic Reaction: The itching and discomfort he is experiencing after applying the prescribed medication (壽元 可麗凝膠) could be due to an allergic reaction or irritation from the ingredients in the gel, especially if it contains active ingredients that may not be compatible with his skin type post-laser treatment.


Recommendations
1. Consultation with a Dermatologist: Since your boyfriend has already seen a dermatologist, it’s crucial to follow their advice closely. If the current treatment is not yielding results or if the symptoms worsen, a follow-up appointment may be necessary. The dermatologist might consider adjusting the treatment plan or prescribing a different medication.

2. Discontinue Irritating Products: If A酸 is contributing to the irritation, it may be wise to pause its use until the skin has healed. The same goes for any other products that could be aggravating the skin. A gentle skincare routine focusing on hydration and barrier repair is essential during this time.

3. Topical Treatments: The dermatologist may recommend soothing topical treatments that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Look for products containing ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides, which can help restore the skin barrier without causing further irritation.

4. Avoid Picking or Squeezing: It’s important for your boyfriend to avoid picking at the acne or trying to squeeze them, as this can lead to further inflammation and potential scarring.

5. Hydration and Sun Protection: Keeping the skin well-hydrated is crucial. Additionally, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen is vital, especially after laser treatments, as the skin can be more susceptible to UV damage.

6. Consider Alternative Treatments: If the current laser treatments are causing more harm than good, it might be worth discussing alternative acne treatments with the dermatologist. Options such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or different laser modalities may be more suitable.


Conclusion
In summary, your boyfriend's situation requires careful management to avoid further irritation and promote healing. It’s essential to work closely with a dermatologist to tailor a treatment plan that addresses both the acne and the skin's sensitivity post-laser treatment. With the right approach, it is possible to achieve clearer skin while minimizing discomfort and preventing further breakouts.

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