–by Alyssa Wing, LPN and Jenna DeCapua, RN
Acne and the scarring that can result from it is a common skin condition that affects all ages, both men and women. Acne scarring can come in different forms, such as ice pick scars, pitted scarring, post-inflammatory erythema, and hyperpigmentation, all which cause the skin to appear uneven.
In our experience, most people who have acne scarring experience insecurities and feel discouraged. Their skin doesn’t look as youthful and smooth as it once did, causing them to be extremely self-conscious. This can lead to an individual separating themselves or retreating from social situations and becoming isolated, which can then have a trigger effect and cause problems in their relationships.
Many times they, mostly women, won’t leave the house without makeup on, which can actually contribute to worsening acne, perpetuating a difficult cycle. And others don’t want to have to continually cover up with makeup. Many people find themselves asking:
- What helps with acne scars?
- Are acne scars permanent?
- How can I get rid of old acne scars?
- What is the best treatment for acne scars?
What is the Best Treatment for Acne Scars?
Here at Q Medical Spa, we offer a variety of treatments that can be customized for each patient to help combat acne scarring. One type of treatment may not be sufficient enough to treat acne scarring, so in some cases multiple modalities may be needed. This is because some modalities may only treat specific concerns such as post-inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation, while others can help treat textural concerns. Some of the best treatments to help improve acne scarring include:
HALO
HALO is a fractional resurfacing system that improves pigmentation and scarring. Precise areas in the dermis and epidermis are treated with a combination of ablative and non-ablative wavelengths, maximizing results and reducing downtime.
Potenza or Genius Microneedling with Radiofrequency
Potenza and Genius are microneedling devices that utilize radiofrequency energy delivered through needles, which heats the tissue to stimulate collagen and elastic production to improve acne scarring.
MOXI Non-Ablative Fractional Laser or LaseMD Ultra Skin Resurfacing
MOXI is a laser resurfacing treatment that creates a microscopic epidermal tissue response with laser energy to treat mild scarring. LaseMD Ultra utilizes a non-ablative laser to resurface the skin and increase its permeability to absorb corrective products.
IPL Photorejuvenation or BBL BroadBand Light
IPL Photorejuvenation and BBL both utilize light energy administered into the skin, where it is absorbed by the excess pigment in brown spots and redness. The pigment heats up until it is destroyed and gradually flushed out of the body, while the production of collagen is also stimulated to improve texture and tone over time.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a must as part of a regular skin care routine. They remove the uppermost layer of dead skin cells from the surface to allow more vibrant skin to emerge, and can help treat mild acne.
How Many Sessions for Acne Scar Removal?
Most treatments will require at least 3-5 sessions to see visible improvement. Results vary from person to person depending on severity and skin response. It’s important to meet with a provider to determine a customized treatment plan that best fits your individual needs and goals.
Complement Acne Scar Removal with Skincare
It is also important to be on a good product regimen at home to optimize treatment results. Some of our favorite products available at our medical spa include:
- Prescription strength tretinoin
- Epionce Lytic
- PCA Pigment Gel Pro
- PCA Pigment Bar
- PCA Acne Cream
Additional Options to Treat Acne and Acne Scarring
Depending on the severity of active acne, we may recommend our patients see a dermatologist to potentially receive prescriptive treatment, such as Accutane or oral antibiotics and topicals. The level of scarring may prompt a referral to one of our facial plastic surgeons for possible surgical dermabrasion, which is performed in the operating room.
A consultation will give you insight into the next best step for you. Let us help you feel confident in your own skin! For more information about the options available to treat acne scarring, call 585.244.1010 or contact us online.
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