Deeper Laser Treatments for Acne Scars?

I agree with your instincts, deeper treatments are required to improve acne scarring. Although you may have surface irregularities in the texture of the skin, the scarring process occurs within the deeper dermal zones. The beauty of the Profractional Laser is that treatments can be delivered safely to the deep dermal tissue. I don't believe 175 micron depth at 8% coverage is taking full advantage of the equipment and not likely to maximize the benefit. Perhaps those parameters were... more

I have worked with the Profractional laser for quite some time, and have kept up with innovative uses across the country. In my office, my skin care nurses provide superficial depth treatments to 300 microns, and I perform those that go deeper. Acne scarring is difficult, because it involves deep dermal elements. Multiple users, including myself, have been increasing the depth of Profxnl treatments to remodel the scarring. Empiric evidence have suggested at least 500 microns, and even up... more

To address Acne scars, the depth of treatment needs to be about 800 mincrons. To tolerate this, (as it can be painful), you would need to have some oral pain relievers as well as some nerve blocks. these are not typically done by an esthetician. Bleching cream pre-treatement and post treatment is always a good idea for any client with pigmented skin.

You may have a darker skintype based on your reported ethnic backgorund and a bleaching cream would be prudent. As for the depths I do not think you should press your esthetician any further. You will likely carry a higher risk than others with side effects and you need to be treated by someone comfortable with your skin type and the laser being used. If the esthetician is working under a doctor then discuss your concerns with the doctor (assuming they are board certified in a skin... more