Acne scars as a result of cystic acne can be a major issue and may affect not just your overall physical appearance but also your emotional and mental outlook about yourself.
Scars can be treated. However, keep in mind that acne scars can be difficult to treat.The good news is there have been a lot of available treatments that can help minimize the size and appearance of the scar. One option being offered today is laser treatment for acne scars.
What is Laser Treatment for Acne Scars?
Laser for acne scars is a non-invasive approach to acne scar treatment. It is an excellent alternative to surgical methods since it is quick method that can be done even during your lunch time. It has little to no downtime and a simple procedure with little discomfort.
Aside from acne scars, laser treatment can also reduce fine lines and wrinkles on your face. It can also work on all skin types however certain medications must be taken to minimize changes in the skin color. But if you currently have acne, then this treatment may not work for you.
4 Different Types of Acne Scar Laser Treatment
Laser treatment for acne scars come in variety of forms. Here are some of the options.
Fractional Laser Treatment. This non-invasive method is capable of targeting the deeper layers of the skin. It delivers a laser beam that is divided into thousands of tiny but deep columns of treatment in the skin, also called microthermal treatment zones or MTZ. MTZ can help remove old pigmented cells. At the same time, its ability to penetrate into the dermis results to collagen remodelling and new collagen formation while keeping the healthy issues intact and unaffected.
Carbon Dioxide Laser Treatment. Also known as CO2 laser resurfacing, this method has been used to treat skin issues such as scars, warts or wrinkles.
It involves local anaesthesia and sedative medications before the affected area is numbed. Then the laser resurfacing will be done and a dressing will be applied on the area treated area thereafter. When you opt for this method, proper wound care is important to prevent scab formation.
Erbium Laser Treatment. When it comes to removing surface-level scars, then this type of laser may work best. Compared to the CO2 laser treatment for acne scars, this method allows you to heal faster, usually one week. There are also fewer side effects such as swelling, bruising and redness.
Pixilation. If you want to target specific points only, then this method can be your best bet. It uses pin-size laser points that are focused only on the scarred areas. Each method has its own advantages. Ask your doctor about the available treatments which can work best on your acne scars. At the same time, do not forget to ask about the risks and possible complications that might happen during and after the procedure.
How Does Laser Treatment Work?
Laser treatment for acne scars uses a pulse of intense light that is able to penetrate the skin layer by layer. The laser light will stimulate the production of collagen and cell renewal and at the same time, tightens the skin. Then the damaged layer of the skin will be removed, thereby allowing the healthy layers underneath to emerge.
The treatment can be done for a maximum of one hour, depending on the size of the treatment area. Unlike surgical procedures, you can immediately get back to your regular activities after the laser treatment.
Keep in mind that the laser treatment will take several sessions, at least five monthly visits, before you see an improvement. This is because laser treatment is more effective when it is focused on just one portion of your face first rather treating it entirely.
Does Laser Treatment Really Work?
Laser treatment procedure is FDA-cleared, hence is generally safe. It is more precise and effective than other surgical scar options. However, some minor side effects like temporary redness and swelling may be unavoidable.
For the majority of patients, laser treatment does reduce acne scarring to a large extent. For patients with severe scarring, it may take more treatments to reduce the scars.
As acne scars are very challenging to treat, it is not possible to expect 100% results when it comes to scar removal. For most cases however, laser treatment is the best option out there to vastly improve the appearance of acne scars and one’s overall physical and emotional well-being.
