In fact, yes. Fractional CO2 lasering is associated with mild flare of acne in 10% of the patients. Especially in patients who are still getting occasional acne before the laser treatment.
However, subsequent acne flares can be minimised with pre-treatment with oral anti-acne antibiotics such as doxycycline before the treatment. These antibiotics can help to reduce bacteria as well as fight inflammation [1].
It is also best to defer fractional CO2 lasering if you are still in the active acne phase of life.
Be sure to consult a doctor if you are in doubt or have an unexpected acne flare-up after your laser treatment.
References:
1. Acne - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic. Mayoclinic.org. Published 2018. Accessed November 26, 2019.
