Acne is the most common skin condition in America, affecting over 85% of people between 12 and 24. Over 50 million people struggle with acne, and many of them will deal with the resulting scarring for the rest of their lives. There is terrific news, however. Dermatology and laser technology have advanced therapies to reduce or eliminate these unsightly blemishes.
Treating acne scarring requires a flexible treatment plan to deliver results to your unique skin condition and scarring concerns. We develop personalized plans for our clients to address their unique needs. Our Key Laser aesthetic team offers manifold corrections and cosmetic procedures: PicoSure Focus, CoolBreeze, Gentle Yag, CO2 DOTG laser therapy, Fraxel laser skin resurfacing, and intense pulsed light. Body contouring is also available as part of our advanced aesthetic offerings. We proudly serve the Portland area. Our mission is to help clients achieve their aesthetic goals with the highest level of care and expertise.
These multiple treatments use different approaches to resolve acne scarring, as you will learn below.
An Introduction to Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing is a cutting-edge cosmetic procedure designed to rejuvenate your skin and address a variety of concerns, including acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. By harnessing the power of high-energy laser light, this treatment targets damaged skin cells and stimulates collagen production, resulting in a smoother, more radiant skin texture. Laser skin resurfacing can be performed on multiple areas of the body, such as the face, neck, and hands, making it a versatile solution for those seeking to enhance their appearance. The procedure works by delivering precise pulses of laser energy to the skin, which encourages the growth of new, healthy skin and helps diminish the appearance of scars and other imperfections. With its ability to deliver effective results and minimal downtime, laser skin resurfacing has become a popular choice in cosmetic dermatology for individuals looking to achieve a youthful, glowing complexion.
Who Is a Candidate for Laser Treatments
Laser treatments are an excellent option for individuals looking to address a range of skin concerns, including acne scars, age spots, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Whether you are dealing with the lingering effects of acne or seeking to minimize the signs of aging, laser procedures can be tailored to your unique needs. However, factors such as your skin type, age, medical history, and current medications can affect your suitability for these treatments. A thorough consultation with a dermatologist is essential to determine the best approach for your specific concerns. During this consultation, your provider will evaluate your skin, discuss your goals, and recommend a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve optimal results. By customizing the treatment to your individual needs, you can expect a safe and effective solution for improving the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and other skin imperfections.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
Proper preparation is key to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of your laser skin resurfacing procedure. In the weeks leading up to your treatment, it is important to avoid sun exposure, as tanned or sunburned skin can increase the risk of complications. You should also discontinue the use of certain skincare products, such as retinoids and glycolic acid, which can make your skin more sensitive to the laser. On the day of your procedure, a topical anesthetic may be applied to the treated area to minimize discomfort and ensure a more comfortable experience. Your dermatologist will provide you with detailed pre-treatment instructions during your consultation, including recommendations for skincare and sun protection. By following these guidelines, you can help maintain the health of your skin and reduce the risk of adverse effects, setting the stage for a successful treatment and beautiful results.
1. Remove Dead Skin Layers
Acne scars form when the skin cell structure experiences damage, which prevents the skin from healing correctly. The skin rebuilds rapidly and unpredictably when the acne wound heals, resulting in a cluster of dead cells forming a scar. Laser resurfacing is a common method used to remove these dead skin layers and improve skin appearance for cosmetic purposes. The clinical process involves the application of medicine to ensure safe and effective procedures, and dermatologists oversee and customize the treatment plan for best results.
Fractional skin resurfacing is a useful acne scarring treatment delivering a controlled laser split into thousands of microlight threads. This laser treatment uses advanced lasers to focus on the treatment site, inducing thousands of microscopic injuries to stimulate the body’s natural healing process. It diminishes the outer layer of deformed scar cells, allowing for a uniform healing process. The results are a smoother skin texture and a reduction of acne scars.
These treatments support overall skin health and are part of a comprehensive skin care plan. They also provide significant skin rejuvenation benefits.
2. Treat Large or Small Areas
Acne breakouts appear on a broad spectrum ranging from mild to severe — the worse the acne is, the more prominent the scarring will be. Skin color can influence both the choice and effectiveness of laser treatments, as certain lasers may be better suited for specific skin tones to minimize risks like hyperpigmentation. Laser treatments are especially successful in resolving small areas like the nose or larger skin patches covering the jawline, cheeks, and forehead. Recovery time may vary depending on the size of the treated area and the specific laser technique used.
3. Treat Various Skin Depths
When acne scarring penetrates deep into the dermis, the skin cells experience damage well under the skin. For these types of acne scarring, treatment must be effective in inflicting micro-injuries into the underlying tissues without affecting surrounding healthy tissue in the area. Some advanced procedures can take up to two hours to complete, depending on the extent of the treatment.
Fraxel skin resurfacing is an excellent treatment or dermal fillers which volumize deep into the skin. Results are a leveling out of the skin and acne scar reduction. While most treatments are performed in a clinic, more extensive procedures may require a hospital setting.
4. Stimulate Collagen Production
Collagen production is a critical process to keep our skin healthy and smooth. PicoSure Focus, CoolBreeze, IPL, and Gentle YAG offer reduced scarring over larger surface areas to improve tone and texture.
5. Minimal Downtime
When choosing laser treatments to resolve acne scarring, downtime for healing is minimal. This convenience is perfect for patients who are always on the go with work or play. The skin will be sensitive after treatment, and patients should avoid the sun, but it shouldn’t wreak too much havoc on your daily routine. Using ice packs on the treated area can help reduce swelling, soothe the skin, and alleviate discomfort following the procedure.
Post-Treatment Care
Caring for your skin after laser skin resurfacing is essential to achieving the best possible outcome and minimizing the risk of complications. Following the procedure, the treated area may appear red, swollen, and feel sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. To support healing and promote radiant skin, it is important to follow a gentle skincare routine that includes a mild cleanser and a hydrating moisturizer. Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, as the new skin will be more vulnerable to sun damage. Avoiding strenuous activities and hot water for a few days can also help reduce irritation and support recovery. Your dermatologist will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and provide additional guidance tailored to your needs. With proper post-treatment care, you can enjoy smoother, healthier skin and a renewed glow, all while minimizing downtime and risk.
Call (503) 291-1953 or schedule a consultation today to schedule your laser consultation with Key Laser!