Does Laser Acne Scar Treatment Work?

Acne scars are an issue for many Americans and serve as a memory of our youth. When one picks, pops, or scratched a pimple, there is always a risk of scarring. Scarring appears as a dark spot or an indentation in the skin. With cystic acne, severe hyperpigmentation can occur and last for months, or even years in some cases. All of this can be a recipe for low self-esteem and lack of confidence. For those that are tired of covering up with heavy make-up every day, or those that dread seeing their scarring in the mirror, laser acne scar treatment may be the remedy that you are longing for.

Laser acne scar treatment works by pulsing intense light into each layer of the skin. By doing this, collagen production is intensified. This results in cell regeneration. The damaged tissue is removed by the natural healing process of the body, and the fresh skin underneath is left. It is the ultimate resurfacing option!

There are various types of laser treatments that one can get. The type of treatment given should be decided by a medical professional that will take into consideration your desired result, the severity of the condition, and other variables. There isn’t one treatment that will work for everyone, so it is important to look into all options.

IPL, or intense pulse lasers. are the most common form of laser acne scar treatment. The short light bursts given off by the lasers completely destroy the dark spots that acne has left behind. With the reduction of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, skin looks improved. Fresh, healthy skin will take the place of the dark spots. IPL is also beneficial for those looking for treatment for age spots, skin discoloration, and wrinkles.

Another type of treatment is done with fractional lasers. Fractional lasers create microthermal zones. The trauma caused by the laser promotes healing within the skin. New elastin, collagen, dermal matrix protection, and epidermal resurfacing are all benefits of fractional laser treatments. With this technique, multiple sessions will be needed. Fractional lasers work best for intended, or depressed, acne scars.

During a laser acne scar treatment session, the patient might receive a form of topical anesthetic that will reduce discomfort during the treatment session. Most people say that they feel a “pins and needles” sensation during treatment, but it is very mild.

It is important to note that laser treatments do not get rid of a scar, it simply makes the scar less noticeable. Laser treatments can also prevent a raised scar from forming after a surgical procedure, increase the range of motion for scars that hinder mobility, and reduce scar pain and itching. Lasers are becoming the go-to technique for dermatologists, and the results of your treatment will rely on the skills of the medical professional performing the procedure. When you are under the supervision of a board-certified dermatologist, acne scar laser treatment can be beneficial.

If the medical professional that is assisting with your procedure lacks expertise and experience, you may not get the desired result, and it could even be dangerous. Make sure that you have a consultation with the dermatologist before a course of action is decided. It is necessary for the medical professional to know a great deal about you before determining what procedure will work best. To effectively come up with a course of action, the medical professional must know you skin type, overall health, and they type and characteristics of the scars that you want treated. Additionally, they should also know what medications you are taking, along with any supplements you ingest regularly. This consult should be done in person, and any good dermatologist will meet with you before your appointment for treatment.

Before and after any acne scar treatment procedure, it is important to protect your skin from the sun. If you have a tan or sunburn, the dermatologist will not be able to effectively treat your scar. If they try, it could damage, burn, or discolor the skin. After treatment, it is necessary to protect the skin until it is fully healed. The sun’s rays can cause a new scar to form.

In addition to sun protection, lifestyle changes may be needed before taking part in laser acne scar treatment. To achieve the best results, dermatologists recommend that you:

• Stop using skin care products containing any retinol or glycolic acid for at least two weeks before treatment.
• Stop smoking at least two weeks before treatment.
• Stop taking aspirin, Vitamin E, or other types of medications or supplements that can delay the healing process.
• Take cold sore medication if you have a history of getting them.

Laser acne scar treatment is ideal for those that are longing to like the person they see in the mirror or those that want to feel confident without hiding behind a shield of makeup. Talk to a dermatologist today if you feel that laser acne scar treatment would be beneficial to you.