Acne Scar Treatment Specialist

What is the cause of acne scars?

Acne scars are typically the result of inflammation. As the lesion becomes clogged with bacteria, oil, and dead skin, it becomes engorged and swollen. This causes a break in the skin, which will eventually lead to acne scars in some cases. If a person picks at their acne or squeezes pimples, it's more likely that they'll develop scars due to skin breakage.

How are acne scars treated?

Although acne scars may fade over time, they often won't go away on their own unless they’re treated properly. One of the most effective treatments available today is the StarLux laser. This type of laser is non-ablative, which means that it causes far less damage to the surrounding skin than ablative lasers do. The Starlux laser works by targeting the acne bacteria. The laser destroys the bacteria upon contact while also reducing excess oil from the sebaceous glands. This type of treatment can deal with not only currently existing bacteria, but also with acne that is just starting to form.

What is the treatment process like?

A numbing cream is applied when the patient arrives for treatment. This cream is allowed to absorb for around 20 minutes, as it will help the patient be comfortable during the treatment. As the laser treatment begins, most patients feel a sensation of heat, but not pain. There may be some mild stinging as areas like the nose, forehead, and around the eye area are treated. Once the treatment session is complete, the skin may be red and uneven looking. This can be greatly relieved with ice packs, and it will fade away rapidly for most patients.

How many treatment sessions are needed to eliminate acne scars?

This can vary by person. Most people have between 3 and 5 total treatments, with the treatments spaced about a month apart. With a customized treatment regimen, most people can drastically reduce or even eliminate their acne scars.

What type of aftercare is required?

After acne scar removal treatment with the StarLux laser, patients will need to follow the guidelines provided to them. There’s no real downtime, but patients do need to expect a couple of days of a mildly sunburned appearance. Patients shouldn't use makeup for at least a full day after laser treatment for acne scars.