Should I do CO2 laser or RF microneedling? (Photo)

Thank you for your question! Acne scarring can be difficult to treat but we have seen wonderful results with the FRAXIS Duo (CO2 combined with micro-needling). We typically recommend 3 treatments done 6 weeks apart. I do recommend getting a consultation with an experienced practitioner to see what they recommend for you. We wish you the best!

Thank you for your question. Acne scarring can be one of the most challenging issues to treat. Most patients will require a combination approach to see the best possible results. Laser resurfacing is one option, which can be performed in tandem with subcision and injectable fillers. Your scarring is severe, so a series of treatment sessions will likely provide the best results for you. Rest assured that as long as you select a board-certified dermatologist with expertise in laser devices, your procedures should be both safe and successful. 

Hello TJ.  Your scars are very deep so it is good to hear that you are considering a procedure with downtime.  A deep resurfacing (NOT CO2, but rather Erbium lasers) is what we use for all medium and darker skin types for indented acne scars.  With that said because f the severity, you are going to need multiple visits but should see improvement with each visit.  Each visit will likely have 7-10 days of recovery time.  We do not find any value in microneedling because it cannot remove scar tissue like fractional resurfacing can.  Best of luck.

Thanks for your question. Acne scars are treated most effectively with a combination of treatments including lasers, microneedling, fillers, chemical peels, subcision, punch excision, at home skin care, etc. Usually multiple treatment sessions are needed. It is an ongoing process and commitment is key. The goal should be improvement and not total elimination. We use the newer version of the Infini RF Microneedling device called the Genius which is more comfortable and more effective than the Infini. Combined with our Nano-Ray Laser, the results have been excellent. You are correct in that not all devices are created equal. You would need an in-person examination to determine which combination of treatments would be most appropriate for you. Make sure you find an experienced provider to minimize complications. Best wishes

Thank you for your question!  Acne scars need a combination approach for long-term improvement. Everyone has a unique pattern of acne scarring, and most people have various types of scars, so we create a tailored treatment plan for each patient. We often use:- Injectable fillers like Bellafill and Sculptra (with or without subcision) for atrophic, indented scars. - Subcision for depressed, tethered scars. - Vascular lasers like Yellow laser, Aerolase, excel V, or IPL for redness or thick acne scars. - Lasers such as Fraxel, Erbium, CO2 or fractional radiofrequency (Venus Viva, Skinfinity, Intensif microneedling RF) for textural issues and superficial scarring. - TCA CROSS and punch excision for deep ice pick scars and narrow box car scars.
All lasers are combined with microneedling/PRP to improve the results and accelerate your healing time. Keep in mind that a personalized combination treatment by an EXPERT physician will give you the improvement you're looking for. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced cosmetic dermatologist and acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Acne scars are treated differently depending on their appearance and structure. Once the acne is controlled and you continue to do have remaining scars due to permanent dermal injury from acne, a variety of treatments can be performed to remodel the scar from energy-based lasers and radiofrequency devices to mechanical disruption of the scar with microneedling. Deep wide scars can be released and filled in with subcision and a filler such as Bellafill which is specifically designed for divets and depressions left by acne. The very thin or deep ice-pick scars are best treated by excising them completely.  I especially like a combination of a chemical peel for the hyperpigmentation and acne control, microneedling with PRP for texture and collagen building, and PIXEL fractionated laser or RF to resurface and build even more collagen. In your case, I would prioritize the subcision with Bellafill for the individual deeper scars. Not everyone is a candidate for all the treatment options however as certain skin types can get worse from certain treatments. For the best treatment options, it is important to visit an expert for an in-person examination. Hope this helps!
Johnson C. Lee, MD 
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Given your scar type, and pattern, a combination of energy devices and subcision would give you the best results. Video explains. In CA, Dr William Groff and Dr Jason Emer are very experienced Dermatologist and can assist you. Dr Davin Lim, Brisbane. Australia.