I recently had CO2 laser and subcision done for my acne scars and it’s been 14 days since the procedure, and I’m really going through it. My skin has gotten worse in every way possible. I have visible red patches on my cheeks, and my pores look huge. The areas where the subcisions were done are now even more indented, which I don’t understand. I don’t even recognize myself. I’ve followed all the aftercare instructions, but still. I went for a checkup, and the doctor was essentially gaslighting me about the scars improving and said the redness will go away in 1 to 2 months. He even recommended that I go through another round of laser and subcision next month, which I think is absolutely insane and just trying to take my money. Please tell me I didn’t ruin my face and that it will get better. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Right now I’m using a heavy moisturizer, tranexamic acid and peptides serum (suggested by derm) for hyperpigmentation, azelaic acid for the redness, circablast b5 cream here and there and lots of sunscreen.
Edit: Thank you all for all the advice and reassurance. I’ll be stopping all actives and be more patient! I knew going into it that there will be a longer recovery time but I didn’t expect it to get this bad. The clear lines of demarcation don’t help it either. But I’m more hopeful now!