Acne scars are a common concern for many individuals long after the active breakouts have subsided and often serve as a constant reminder of previous acne. However, with today’s aesthetic advancements, there are effective treatments available that can significantly reduce or even eliminate the appearance of acne scars.

Understanding Acne Scars

Acne scars are the result of inflammation caused by acne blemishes. The skin’s pores swell, causing a break in the follicle wall. Deep breaks can lead to more serious lesions, while shallow lesions are usually more mild and heal quickly. When the skin is damaged, it tries to repair itself by forming new collagen fibers, but these repairs usually aren't as smooth and flawless as the original skin.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels can be used to improve skin texture and tone.The VI Peel treatment stands out as a preferred choice for its effectiveness in treating acne, pigmentation, and signs of aging. This peel is suitable for all skin types and involves a blend of potent ingredients such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA), salicylic acid, retinol, and vitamin C. These components work together to exfoliate the skin, promoting a brighter and smoother complexion.

The VI Peel Process

The VI Peel treatment is quick. The 30-minute procedure begins with skin cleansing followed by the application of the peel solution. The peeling process, which lasts 6-7 days after the treatment, sheds the outer layer of the skin, revealing the fresh, unscarred layer beneath. While one treatment can yield noticeable results, a series of treatments may be recommended for optimal outcomes.

Downtime and Aftercare

Post-treatment, patients can expect about 3-5 days of downtime, with peeling and increased sensitivity to sunlight. It's crucial to wear SPF daily and avoid direct sun exposure during this period. The VI Peel's results can be long-lasting with proper skincare maintenance, and our expert providers will guide patients through a customized skincare regimen to preserve the treatment benefits.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a technique that uses fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production. The Secret™ PRO from CUTERA® elevates this process by combining microneedling with CO2 fractional laser technology, targeting both the surface and deeper layers of the skin for a comprehensive skin renewal.

The Dual Approach

The Secret PRO system offers customizable care to address various skin concerns, including acne scars. By creating micro traumas and delivering heat to the pores, it activates fibroblasts to produce collagen, resulting in tighter, firmer, and smoother skin.

Treatment Expectations

Patients may see improvements after just one session, but typically, 3-6 treatments spaced 4-8 weeks apart are necessary for full results. The downtime for microneedling is minimal, with patients advised to avoid makeup and intense sunlight for 1-2 days post-treatment.

Laser Genesis

Laser Genesis, performed with the Excel® V+ system, is a non-invasive laser treatment that promotes healthy skin by gently heating the upper dermis. This method is effective for treating acne scars, reducing redness, and improving skin texture.

Downtime and Results

One of the significant advantages of Laser Genesis is the lack of downtime. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately post-treatment. While some acne scarring may only need one session, a series of treatments may be recommended to achieve the desired effect.

Maintenance and Frequency

For maintaining results, treatments can be spaced from quarterly to every six months, with some patients opting for monthly sessions. Regular use of SPF is also crucial to protect the skin and prolong the benefits of the treatment.

Combining Treatments for Enhanced Results

Depending on the severity of acne scarring, a tailored approach that combines these treatments may offer the most significant improvements. By addressing the scars from multiple angles, patients can achieve smoother, more youthful-looking skin.

Request Appointment

FAQs

Can I permanently remove acne scars?

While some acne scars can be permanently removed or significantly reduced, others may only be diminished. Treatments like the laser genesis microneedling, and chemical peels can offer long-term results, but the outcome can vary based on the type and severity of the scarring.

Can retinol remove acne scars?

Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, can help in the management of acne scars by increasing cell turnover and collagen production. It may not remove scars completely but can improve the skin's texture over time.

How do you get rid of deep acne scars?

Deep acne scars often require more intensive treatments. Options include deep chemical peels, laser genesis, or microneedling. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be recommended.

How do I know if my acne scars are permanent?

Scars that do not fade away naturally over the course of several months to a year are likely to be permanent. However, "permanent" does not mean untreatable. Our expert providers can assess your scars and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

Can acne scar treatments be combined with other procedures?

Yes, combining acne scar treatments with other procedures can enhance results. For example, microneedling can be combined with medical grade skincare in order to achieve optimal results.

How can I maintain the results of my acne scar treatment?

Maintaining the results of acne scar treatment involves a consistent skincare routine, sun protection, and possibly periodic maintenance treatments. Our expert providers can provide a personalized plan for long-term care.

Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Tammy Chen, DDS