What laser (& other treatments) do you recommend for acne scarring & pigmentation? (Photo)

Question

I am looking to get lasers to hopefully eliminate the scars that are left behind from my acne. It seems that I also have broken blood vessels on my face as a result of the inflammation, but I am unsure if this is what is causing my face to be red and splotchy. I don't think my scars are as severe as others but they are definitely noticeable and I want the right lasers to remove them and also want to know how many possible treatments I would require. Do I need a combination of lasers also?

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for sharing your questions and posting your photo. You would need a combination approach of erbium laser and yag laser. You would see significant improvement but not perfection. See an oculofacial surgeon for detailed evaluation and guidance.
Good luck!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for acne scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Acne scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of acne scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic acne scars and indented acne scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your acne scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Milan Shah, MD · Answer

The choice of treatment depends on the type and severity of scarring and pigmentation. Common options include:1. Laser Therapy: Fractional laser treatments like CO2 and erbium lasers can help reduce the appearance of acne scars by stimulating collagen production and resurfacing the skin.2. Chemical Peels: Chemical peels can improve pigmentation and texture by removing damaged skin layers. They come in varying strengths, from mild to deep peels.3. Microdermabrasion: This procedure exfoliates the skin’s top layer, which can help with mild acne scarring and pigmentation.4. Microneedling: Dermarollers or microneedling pens create micro-injuries in the skin, promoting collagen production and improving scar texture.5. Dermal Fillers: For certain types of scars, injectable fillers can be used to raise the depressed areas and improve their appearance.6. Topical Treatments: Prescription creams containing ingredients like retinoids, hydroquinone, or vitamin C can help with pigmentation issues.7. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): PRP therapy involves injecting your platelet-rich blood into the skin to promote healing and collagen production.It’s crucial to consult with an experienced provider who can assess your specific skin condition and recommend the most suitable treatment based on your individual needs.

What laser (& other treatments) do you recommend for acne scarring & pigmentation? (Photo)

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What laser (& other treatments) do you recommend for acne scarring & pigmentation? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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