Bayside Vein & Laser Center

What causes acne scars?

It is not really known why some people are more prone to scarring than others. The body’s attempt to fight the inflammation of acne lesions doesn’t always leave a clean slate behind. Sometimes there is added “debris” in the form of fibrous scar tissue and sometimes there is an erosion of tissue. Hence, acne scarring occurs primarily in two types:

1. "Keloid hypertrophic scars" are raised, thickened tissue, usually about 1-2 mm in diameter, though some may be larger. They result from overproduction of collagen, which is one of the weapons in the body’s natural arsenal employed to repair skin cells. Keloid scars sometimes diminish over time, and sometimes not.

2. “Ice-pick” scars or “depressed fibrotic” scars are depressed areas of skin, looking more like pock marks. They result from actual loss of tissue in the attempt to fight the acne-causing infection. These are more common than keloid scars and occur most often on the cheek area.

How does laser treatment work for acne scars?

Lasers of specific wavelength and intensity penetrate to precisely controlled depths to stimulate and accelerate collagen growth in the deeper layer of skin. Utilizing the body's natural skin renewal process, this method results in smoother skin texture and reduces the redness that may be present around the scars. Best results are achieved with a series of 4-6 treatments spread over several months.

What is the treatment like?

First, the area to be treated is cleansed. A topical anesthetic ointment may be applied. We also use a cooling device for added comfort. The laser hand piece is gently guided across the skin.  It precisely reads the discreet contours of your skin treatment area and delivers specific dosages of mixcrobeams into your deeper layer of skin. Most patients report a sensation of pricking or something like being snapped with a rubber band with each laser pulse. Treatments usually last 10 - 20 minutes, depending on the surface area treated. To see a demonstration on our 4-minute introductory video, click here.

What should I expect after treatment?

After your fractional laser treatment, you may experience lingering pinkness, warmth, swelling, or tightness in the treated area, which fades within a few hours. For sensitive skin some pinkness and swelling may last for 1-2 days. Generally, you can receive a treatment and go back to work or to other activities the next day.

Because the energy pulses are confined to narrow columns in the skin, much of the skin is left unaffected and there is a quick healing process. Most people notice positive changes in skin tone and texture within a few days. You will notice increased improvement over the next 2-6 weeks and a cumulative effect with successive treatments in your series.

What if I have active acne?

This treatment method does not work in cases that involve active acne. We would refer you to a dermatologist for treatment of the active acne and consider laser treatment for your scarring at a later time when your acne is no longer active.

Testimonials

“It did wonders for my acne scarring. I feel like I have a whole new face. You just can’t find the old scars.” - Receptionist, early 30s