Laser Genesis vs. IPL for cystic acne and scarring: which is better? (Photos)

Question

I started getting acne about 4 years ago and am now 30. Though my active acne has improved recently through use of Tret-A cream at night and Skinsceuticals Glycolic wash and CE Ferulic serum in the AM, I do still break out and have scars left from prior cysts on my cheeks. My dermatologist has recommended laser genesis treatment at $450/session for the scarring, but I'm curious about IPL as a cheaper and more convenient alternative. Which one is more effective for eradicating scarring?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination approach will give the most improvement. These types of scars need a combination of lasers, microneedling/prp, subcision, Cosmelan and fillers. Co2 is the best laser for scars, but Erbium is a great alternative. It will take a series of treatments and may need life-long treatments to maintain. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Lisa Jenks, MD · Answer

IPL is used to lighten darkened skin, whether from sun exposure or scars.  Judging from your photos, most of your scars look more red then brown.  Genesis works better on reducing red tones and, in addition, Genesis stimulates some collagen production, which makes it helpful for evening out poor texture from scars.  So, between those two, I believe that Genesis will be most helpful for your acne scars.I do always tell my patients that scarred skin can be improved, but never made perfect.  I also tell them that, usually, a combination of treatments is needed.  I like to start treating acne scars with a series of microneedling treatments combined with PRP.  Laser treatments, such as Genesis or even a CO2, can also be helpful, as can subsicion treatments and/or fillers. Best of luck to you.

Stanley Kovak, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Either treatment is a viable option to help with your acne. As for the acne scarring, the genesis is going to be a better option for you simply because it will achieve deeper penetration into your skin. I experience best results using radiofrequency treatments like viva or vivace, so I prefer those over genesis or IPL in the treatment of acne scarring. Just be sure to see a reputable provider that you are comfortable with. I hope this helps!

Carolyn Jacob, MD · Answer

Pink spots from acne are best treated with glycolic acid, a Vitamin A such as tretinoin, and a retinol.

Laser Genesis vs. IPL for cystic acne and scarring: which is better? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Laser Genesis vs. IPL for cystic acne and scarring

Answer: Laser Genesis vs. IPL for cystic acne and scarring

Answer: Maybe try a simpler approach

Answer: Maybe try a simpler approach

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Everything you need to know about IPL

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Laser Genesis vs. IPL for cystic acne and scarring: which is better? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Laser Genesis vs. IPL for cystic acne and scarring

Answer: Laser Genesis vs. IPL for cystic acne and scarring

Answer: Maybe try a simpler approach

Answer: Maybe try a simpler approach

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about IPL

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.