Energy-Based (Laser) Acne Scarring Removal Beverly Hills & Los Angeles
Laser Resurfacing
What is laser treatment?
Laser resurfacing is an effective, non-invasive acne scarring treatment that produces dramatic results with minimal downtime. Our laser treatments create microscopic areas of photothermal damage that stimulate the rapid regeneration of connective tissues in the skin. This process tightens the skin and virtually eliminates acne scarring. Our office uses state of the art Fotona SP Dynamis Pro Erbium YAG lasers to deliver safe, long-lasting results for patients of all skin types.
What are the different kinds and uses for lasers?
At our clinic, we use the Fotona4D laser, which has both non-ablative (Nd:YAG) and ablative (Er:YAG) settings. Nd:YAG lasers emit shorter wavelengths of concentrated light, which allows them to penetrate deeper into the skin to target veins, hair follicles, and melanin, where they reside. On the other hand, Er: YAG lasers emit longer wavelengths of light, specifically infrared light, to ablate and thus remodel the top layers of skin. Er:YAG lasers are thus more applicable for scar treatment.
Are lasers effective for my acne scars?
Although visible improvement can be seen with ER:YAG laser treatment, lasers essentially “sands down” healthy skin around acne scars to match the level of the pitted scars. This allows a more even appearance. As a result, our firm belief is to avoid laser treatments as a first line treatment for acne scars. Instead, we believe that laser treatments are best used as a final “touch-up” treatment that smooths out your skin after your scar revision and healing during the phase system. This way, laser treatments can be used as an effective refining and enhancing treatment to fine tune your skin’s appearance to your desired goals.
Moreover, laser treatments can be effective for patients with non-acne scars, notably hypertrophic scars from burns, surgery, or other forms of trauma to the skin. In these cases, we would use a higher ablative Er:YAG setting to remodel the raised skin lesions to flatten them to the level of the surrounding healthy skin. However, in cases where the scar is severely raised and continually growing, as seen with keloid scars, lasers may not be the most viable treatment option.
What are the risks of laser treatment?
Although we use a mild setting for our laser, some risks include temporary redness, swelling, and irritation. In rare cases, infection may occur following treatment. All these risks are mitigated or entirely prevented with careful use and proper aftercare. For people of color, lasers can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. As a countermeasure, patients should avoid UV exposure and apply generous amounts of sunscreen following treatment, especially during the spring and summer months.
How long do the results last for laser treatment?
Patients will start to notice results 3 to 6 months after treatment. Afterwards, the results will persist anywhere between 3 to 5 years. Some patients may need a touch-up during that time period for results to last longer.
What is the cost for laser treatment?
The cost of laser treatment will vary depending on the severity and type of scar involved. Some scars will require more highly ablative settings than others, which would influence the cost of treatment. At your consultation and throughout the treatment process, we will discuss laser options depending on how much treatment is required to minimize the appearance of your scars as much as possible.
Radio-Frequency Microneedling
Radio-frequency microneedling uses tiny, insulated needles to make microscopic punctures that stimulate collagen production and lift acne scars. Radiofrequency microneedling is a non-invasive, state-of-the-art technology that produces fast results with minimal downtime.
What is Acne Scarring?
Manual Acne Scar Removal
Types of Acne Scarring