IPL vs Microdermabrasion for acne scars while on Epiduo/Clindamycin?

Question

I am a 31 year old Caucasian woman with combination skin (not too sensitive). I use cyndamyacin twice daily and epiduo once every 3 days or so. I currently have pigmented acne scars and I occasionally a pimple or two, but my skin is now stable overall. I am looking to get a facial to help reduce my pink pigmented acne scars. Since I already have good cell turnover due to the retinoid, which facial provides better results: Microdermabrasion, IPL laser or a peel? Minimal downtown would be nice.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Acne scars need a combination approach for improvement.  For the best results, one should target the acne scar type.  As everyone has a unique pattern of acne scarring, the best solution is a tailored one.  Typically you need fillers like bellafill and sculptra for atrophic indented type scars with or without subcision.  Subcision for depressed tethered scars.  Vascular lasers like yellow laser, aerolase, excel V or IPL for redness or thick scars. And lasers such as fraxel, erbium, co2 or fractional radiofrequency like venus viva, skinfinity, intensif microneedling RF for textural issues and superficial scarring.  Deep ice pick scars and narrow box car scars are best treated with TCA CROSS and punch excision.  All lasers are combined with microneedling and PRP to get even better results and improve healing times.   The majority of patients will have a collection of different scar types, and hence a tailored treatment plan is needed by an expert physician.  It is never about the laser or product that gives the results, its about the expert behind the equipment that gets you the outcome.  Scars cannot be cured and will need life-long treatments to maintain and build on the results.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

Microdermabrasion, IPL laser, and peels all have different pros and cons. The more powerful a treatment is, the more downtime there is. Microdermabrasion is the least powerful and simply exfoliates the top dead layer of skin with little to no downtime. IPL is not a facial but a laser best used for pigment issues. Not all patients are a candidate depending on your in-office skin examination as some patients will have worse discoloration after IPL treatments. A peel can help treat both the dead and living layers of skin depending on the strength and type. Downtime is usually 1 week. It is best to have an in-office examination to evaluate your skin as there may be other options (microneedling, PRP, radiofrequency etc) which may be better for you to reach your goals with minimal downtime. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD 
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
IG: @drjohnsonlee

Aurora DeJuliis, MD · Answer

You need to have an experienced physician assess your skin since there are various acne scars and different types of pigmentation. A 'facial' is not going to improve your skin. IPL performed in a medical setting can improve pigmentation and uneven skin color. Microneedling is a great alternative. 
Good luck.

Justin Harper, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi ChloeVeronique.To be honest, microdermabrasion slough off dead cells and can temporarily make the skin look clearer and feel more supple. However, since it only addresses the superficial skin.you induction of collagen or any similar long-term effects are not expected. Please go to a doctor who can advise you on IPL/Laser, Chemical Peels and Microneedling. The importance of you being of the appropriate skin type is very important because IPL can cause more hyperpigmentation in darker skin. Skincare is extremely important as well as protecting yourself from the sun.All the best, Justin Harper, M.D.

IPL vs Microdermabrasion for acne scars while on Epiduo/Clindamycin?

Answers (4)

Answer: IPL vs Microdermabrasion for acne scars while on Epiduo/Clindamycin?

Answer: IPL vs Microdermabrasion for acne scars while on Epiduo/Clindamycin?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Microneedling

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

IPL vs Microdermabrasion for acne scars while on Epiduo/Clindamycin?

Answers (4)

Answer: IPL vs Microdermabrasion for acne scars while on Epiduo/Clindamycin?

Answer: IPL vs Microdermabrasion for acne scars while on Epiduo/Clindamycin?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Microneedling

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