Acne Scars! Help! What do I need to do to make my skin perfect again? Laser? Dermapen? (photos)

Question

I had Microneedling done due to acne scars, but when I smile I noticed I have scars from the needles rolling down my face, which now look like fine lines/wrinkles. You can't tell in the photos and it's only when I smile. However, I'm left with acne scars, uneven texture and pigmentation. I'm thinking about laser.Is laser safe..? Does it thin your skin, are there long term side effects? Are the results permanent once you achieve desired results? What other safe procedure can you suggest? Thanks!

Rebecca Gelber, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Unfortunately, pitted acne scars like yours are one of the hardest conditions to treat, but they can be improved. To give you realistic expectations, this will take multiple treatments over time. Your best bet is a combination of fractional laser, punch biopsy excision of the most prominent pits and PRP.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and posting a picture.  You really need a formal consultation in a doctor's office that has multiple options.  For your skin type II-III, we would be able to offer you 3 different laser treatment options that would produce very good results.  You have options like a PicoSure FOCUS, a fractional 1540nm resurfacing laser or a fractional CO2 laser.  All 3 would offer excellent results with varying levels of downtime.
We also offer microneedling, but we have not performed one in over 2 years because we offer so much better options.  Would you expect to get better results with a $1200 micropen or a $200,000 laser?  Best of luck.

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

this is a very good question. There are many treatments for acne scars depending on the depth and type of scar that is noted.  You must be realistic however as damaged skin will never be "perfect". It is possible however to get improvement.Often times a combination of treatments is needed to get the desired results.  Looking at the type of scarring you have I would suggest that you look into Laser resurfacing and microneedling with RF. In my office we use the lumenis acupulse and the lutronic infini.  We often combine these treatments with PRP , an acid called TCA,,subscision (breaking up the scar tissue) and/or Bellafil (dermal filler to fill in the scars) You should consult with a doctor who is very experienced in treating scars and who can guide you as to the best treatment for you.

Acne Scars! Help! What do I need to do to make my skin perfect again? Laser? Dermapen? (photos)

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Acne Scars! Help! What do I need to do to make my skin perfect again? Laser? Dermapen? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Dermapen

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