How to remove the scarring & redness from acne? (Photos)

Question

I have redness and acne scarring that I want to have removed on my face.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. 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 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 scars and indented  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 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

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Keep it simple is a good axiom for life, as well as for treating various cosmetic skin issues. At least from the photos provided, the predominant acne scars are ice pick scars. If this is indeed so, then TCA CROSS, which I have been performing for over twenty-three years, has a proven record for safety and efficacy for this in all skin types. For the persistent redness, professionally performed manual microneedling (no need for the added expense and risks of RF microneedling)--which I have been performing for nearly a quarter of a century, accompanied by the application of prescription redness reducing medications, such as topical tranexamic acid and brimonidine, can be quite helpful. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Acne scarring and redness can be challenging to treat, but several methods can improve the skin's appearance:
1. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams and gels containing ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, or azelaic acid can help reduce redness and improve the texture of mild scarring.
2. Prescription Medications: For more severe acne or scarring, a dermatologist might prescribe stronger topical treatments or oral medications.
3. Chemical Peels: These treatments involve applying a strong chemical solution to the skin to remove its outer layers and promote new skin growth.
4. Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can reduce redness and improve the texture of acne scars by stimulating collagen production or removing the top layer of skin.
5. Microneedling: This procedure involves puncturing the skin with tiny needles to stimulate collagen production, which can help fill in acne scars.
6. Fillers: Dermatologists can inject fillers into the skin to help smooth out depressed acne scars.
7. Dermabrasion: This is a more intense resurfacing procedure that involves removing the top layer of skin with a rapidly rotating brush.
8. Surgery: In severe cases, a dermatologist might recommend a minor surgical procedure to remove deep scars.
Remember, it's essential to have a discussion with a dermatologist before starting any treatment for acne scars. They can provide personalized advice based on your skin type, the severity of your scars, and other factors. It's also important to note that treatments can take time to work, so patience and consistency are key.

How to remove the scarring & redness from acne? (Photos)

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How to remove the scarring & redness from acne? (Photos)

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