What office treatment would benefit my skin and be the most effective?

Question

I'm 25 F. My face has loss of laxity/collagen, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, acne scars. I popped a zit on my nose a few years ago and so you should know I have broken capillary as well. I've read that lasers can cause fat loss and I would very much like to avoid that. I also realize that I might need two different kinds of treatments such as a chemical peel and something else combined. I prefer the treatments not go over $1500 but I'm open to hearing options. Thank you!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

For decades, high concentration solutions of glycolic acid and salicylic acid, Jessner's solution, and low concentrations (10%-25%) have been used successfully and safely even in skin of color for treating acne, superficial acne scars, dilated pores, oily skin, as well as a variety of skin color and texture problems. Likewise, professional microneedling has also an over a two decade track record for treating many of the same issues and is an alternative or complementary means of improving skin color and texture issues, such as those you describe in your question. The good news is that both of these methods have been safely used in skin of color.  Make sure however that you consult with a board certified aesthetic physician with experience and expertise in the proper use of these peeling agents. Best of luck

Mimi P. Martins, MD · Answer

Hi, Considering your budget and your location, You may want to add a few more $$ to your budget. Acne pores and the skin concerns you described, you certainly will benefit from deep Microneedling with PepFactor, Hyaluronic acid or stem cells. You will need 3-4 sessions one month apart. This treatment if done by right with effective serums will improve skin tone, texture, acne pores and overall skin rejuvenation. 
Or you can have deep chemical peel like TCA (10-20% only to prevent burns or hypo pigmentation), please make sure you find a reputable office to perform this treatment. It will help improve your skin concerns. This treatment may fall within your budget, you will need about three treatments 4-6 weeks apart.
Also, make sure you protect your investment with good skin care and daily use of sunscreen.

What office treatment would benefit my skin and be the most effective?

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What office treatment would benefit my skin and be the most effective?

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