What's the Best Non-ablative Laser for Acne Scars?

What's the best non-ablative laser for acne scars, specifically "crater" type scarring on my temples and a few on my cheeks. I have brown skin(Hispanic), prone to hyperpigmentation, so I'm looking for something that doesn't burn the skin.

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by nelo in Sun Valley, CA

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Non ablative lasers for crater acne

It depends on what you mean. Most lasers are invasive if they are going to do anything. I wouldn't waste my time with truly non invasive. You will waste your time and money doing them. Crater scars can best be improved with either excisions, or elevating the scars with subcision or a multilayered approach. Some where you will need to do some co2 laser resurfacing.

Philip Young, MD

6 reviews

Bellevue Facial Plastic Surgeon

Laser Treatment for Acne Scars

Fraxel Dual is a non-ablative laser which uses the 1550nm/1927nm wavelengths to help correct the collagen structures of the scar tissue. The laser applies heat to the dermal layer. The skin responds to this by producing normal collagen fibers which override the fibers in the acne scars. Fraxel Dual's wavelengths are safe for all skin types. Patients of color face the risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation, as melanin tends to readily absorb laser frequencies. The 1550/1927... more

Semi-ablative lasers would be best

At least partial ablation will be necessary for acne scars. If you don't want something with a lot of downtime, but still get great results, I would recommend the eMatrix by Syneron. I've used this treatment for acne scarring with great results. You can check out the Syneron website to see who in your area might have this technology. Non-ablative lasers are too surface and won't be able to penetrate and treat the acne scars correctly, that's why you need something with a bit... more

Best Non-ablative laser for acne scars?

Hi Nelo. For the type of scars you are describing, we would generally not recommend a non-ablative (no downtime) laser. The reason is "crater" typoe indented scars are difficult to revise with non-ablative lasers. Depending on how old the scars are and how old you are, you may be able to get some improvement, but generally for those type of scars, we suggest ablative (downtime) lasers. If you do decide to go with no-downtime lasers, we have successfully used... more