Skin Rejuvenation & Resurfacing Flashcards
7 cards from real CLT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Skin Rejuvenation & Resurfacing flashcards as text
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) following laser resurfacing is best managed initially with:
Answer: Strict sun avoidance and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen
Sun avoidance and SPF protection are the first-line interventions because UV exposure significantly worsens PIH after resurfacing.
A laser resurfacing patient develops milia (small white cysts) during healing. These are most likely caused by:
Answer: Occlusive wound care products trapping keratin
Occlusive emollients and ointments used post-resurfacing can trap keratin and sebum, leading to milia formation in healing skin.
When comparing CO2 laser to Er:YAG for full-face resurfacing, which statement is most accurate?
Answer: CO2 produces greater hemostasis and collagen tightening but longer downtime
CO2's higher thermal effect provides better coagulation and collagen contraction but results in significantly more downtime than Er:YAG.
The 'rule of 30' in laser resurfacing refers to the principle that treatment depths exceeding approximately 30% of the dermis:
Answer: Risk delayed healing and scarring
Resurfacing deeper than the superficial 30% of dermis significantly increases the risk of scarring due to destruction of adnexal structures needed for re-epithelialization.
Which test spot strategy is recommended when treating an unknown or reactive skin type with ablative lasers?
Answer: Treat a small inconspicuous area and evaluate healing at 4–6 weeks
A test spot in a hidden area allows the clinician to assess individual healing response, pigmentation reaction, and risk before full treatment.
Smoke plume generated during ablative laser resurfacing is hazardous primarily because it contains:
Answer: Viable viral particles and carcinogenic byproducts
Laser plume contains viable viruses (including HPV), bacteria, and mutagenic chemical byproducts requiring high-efficiency smoke evacuators and appropriate masks.
A patient undergoing non-ablative fractional resurfacing with a 1,550 nm laser reports pinpoint bleeding at several treatment zones. This indicates:
Answer: Over-treatment with excessive fluence or density
Pinpoint bleeding during non-ablative fractional treatment signals excessive fluence or density causing unintended ablation, risking PIH and scarring.