Skin resurfacing for a 15 year old?

I’m so sorry to hear about your struggle with severe acne scars. As a physician and a mother of three, I understand how frustrating and challenging this can be. My son and youngest daughter have dealt with acne scars, and I’ve personally been treating my son since he was 14. Acne breakouts can often be due to various etiology genetics or stress and in some cases, they might go away on their own. It’s crucial to consult with a dermatologist and follow prescribed medications to prevent the condition from worsening. Treating acne is complex and it’s important not to rely solely on self-research. Acne is a chronic inflammation, and controlling it is key before addressing acne scars.

Fortunately, in 2024, there are many state-of-the-art procedures and lasers that effectively treat acne and scars. Start by finding a top-quality, experienced dermatologist and physician you can trust. Remember, it’s a long journey, but with the right care, the scars can be treated effectively. While my children still have some breakouts and scars, they are much less severe than before. As both a mom and a physician, I empathize deeply with your situation and want to reassure you that there is hope and help available.

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Dear KhyleGarcia,You are not alone in your concerns about acne scarring. Examples of the most
common skin issues that are treated with laser skin resurfacing are as follows:
removal of facial wrinkles, removal of deep lines around the mouth and eyes,
treatment of facial scars, treatment of scarring related to acne, treatment of
areas of uneven skin pigmentation, removal of tattoos, and treatment of
precancerous skin conditions. Yes skin resurfacing can take care of acne scarring and no, you should not go through with laser skin resurfacing quite yet. You are young - your face is still changing and might continue to endure acne. Wait until you are a little older and your time expectancy with acne is no longer.Sincerely,Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS

I am very sorry to learn about your condition as I know how devastating acne scarring can be.  I have a strong interest in the treatment of acne scars.  It is important that the underlying acne condition be under control before addressing the scars.  There are a number of treatment options that may be appropriate for someone in your situation.I would suggest evaluation by someone who is experienced in the treatment of active acne as well as acne scarring.  Best of luck.

There is not an age limit per se on laser skin resurfacing, but if you are 15 you may not be through with acne. (I am really sorry to say that!) It would be best to see a plastic surgeon or dermatologist to help treat your acne. In some cases of severe acne, oral medications (like accutane) may be required. Oral contraceptives are also needed in order to take this medication. You should ask your parents to help you find a specialist in your area.Laser resurfacing for acne can help improve your appearance, but acne scarring can be quite difficult to treat. Dermabrasion and CO2 laser are the most aggressive treatments available, and anesthetic may be required to undergo these treatments. Best of luck with your care. I hope everything improves for you soon!