Is RF microneedling good for old deep acne scars?

Acne scars are usually characterized within the subtypes of atrophic, hypertrophic, pigmented, or inflammatory. These subtypes of acne scars can be visually discerning in ambient light and can cause significant cosmetic concerns. Indented and atrophic scars require a combination approach to stimulate collagen and elastin, thereby smoothing contour and uneven skin. These are usually combined with lasers and depigmentation protocols to reduce inflammatory hyperpigmentation (Melarase AM and Melarase PM). Our Hidef protocols for acne scars include fillers such as Sculptra, Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane to improve deep acne scars; Vascular lasers to reduce inflammation and post-inflammatory redness and erythema; Fractional lasers to smooth contour and collagen; and Fractional RF to stimulate production of collagen within atrophic scars. Textural improvement and superficial scarring can be improved with Cosmelan peels, TCA Cross for ice-pick scars, deep chemical peels, and fractional CO2. We offer a personalized approach to your combination of scars and a formal evaluation with consultation is recommended to help you achieve your final results. Our plastic surgery office offers subcision and combination TCA Cross to help reduce deeply pitted scars. In terms of pigmentation and skin resonance, we recommend daily use of Melarase AM and Melarase PM coupled with Retinoid creams to achieve brilliant skin.

Best,
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hi! Thank you for your question! RF Microneedling is actually a great treatment to address a variety of concerns, but it is especially effective at treating scarring. I would seek a second in-person opinion from an experienced and well-credentialed skincare provider, but it sounds like microneedling may be a great option for you. In my practice, we use RF Microneedling by INTRAcel, and we’ve seen amazing outcomes with both new and old scarring.  Keep in mind that the best results come from a series of three treatments and your full results won’t be visible until roughly 6 months following your last treatment. Best of luck!

I actually use microneedling without RF for acne scars and the results are good. It's important that you have the treatment in a physicians office using a medical grade microneedling device and with the treatment performed by a experienced provider. A fractionated laser like Fraxel Dual could also be used to improve the appearance of acne scars.