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Potential Side Effects of Fractional CO2 Laser Therapy

Fractional CO2 laser therapy is widely used for skin rejuvenation, scar treatment, and other dermatological applications. However, like any medical procedure, it carries potential risks and side effects. Understanding these can help patients make informed decisions.

Common Side Effects

• Erythema: Post-treatment redness is common and can last from a few days to several weeks. Prolonged erythema lasting over 30 days was reported in 0.8% of cases Study on prolonged erythema.
• Hyperpigmentation: Increased pigmentation can occur, particularly in patients with darker skin types. This was noted in 1.2% of treatments Hyperpigmentation incidence.
• Infections: There is a risk of bacterial infections, including nontuberculous mycobacterial infections, as reported in two cases following treatment Infection cases post-laser.
• Textural Changes: Patients may experience changes in skin texture, which can include roughness or irregularities Texture changes noted.

Factors Influencing Side Effects

Several factors can influence the likelihood and severity of side effects:

• Skin Type: Patients with darker skin types (Fitzpatrick types III and IV) are at a higher risk for hyperpigmentation and other adverse effects Skin type influence.
• UV Exposure: Pre- and postoperative exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) can exacerbate side effects, including increased pigmentation and wound healing complications UV exposure effects.

Conclusion

While fractional CO2 laser therapy is generally considered safe and effective, potential side effects such as erythema, hyperpigmentation, and infections must be carefully managed. Patients should be informed of these risks and monitored closely during the recovery process to mitigate adverse outcomes.

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