CLT Skin Rejuvenation & Resurfacing 2

Question 1

Which skin condition is considered a contraindication for ablative laser resurfacing?

Accepted Answer

Active acne vulgaris

Answer

Active acne is a contraindication because ablative resurfacing can spread bacteria and worsen infection.

Question 2

What does the Fitzpatrick skin type scale primarily help clinicians determine before laser treatment?

Accepted Answer

Risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Answer

Higher Fitzpatrick skin types (IV–VI) have greater melanin content and are at increased risk for PIH following laser procedures.

Question 3

Non-ablative fractional resurfacing differs from ablative fractional resurfacing primarily because it:

Accepted Answer

Leaves the stratum corneum intact

Answer

Non-ablative fractional lasers create thermal injury in the dermis while preserving the overlying epidermis, resulting in faster recovery.

Question 4

A patient develops prolonged erythema lasting more than four weeks after CO2 resurfacing. This most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Delayed healing or early scarring

Answer

Erythema persisting beyond 3–4 weeks post-ablative resurfacing is a warning sign of impaired healing or early scar formation.

Question 5

Which topical agent is most commonly used in pretreatment protocols to reduce post-laser hyperpigmentation risk in darker skin types?

Accepted Answer

Hydroquinone

Answer

Hydroquinone suppresses melanin synthesis and is used pre- and post-procedure to minimize hyperpigmentation in higher Fitzpatrick types.

(CLT) Certified Laser Technician Practice Test