After acne breakouts, the body naturally produces collagen to repair the skin, which can result in various types of scars depending on the amount of collagen produced. In this blog, we'll explore the similarities and differences between laser scar removal and microneedling to help you identify the best treatment option for your acne scars. At our clinic, patients receive customized care from our experienced, doctor-led aesthetic team, who specialize in both methods for treating acne scars. From your initial consultation, we evaluate your specific skin needs and create a personalized acne scar treatment plan that prioritizes safety and high-quality results.

Laser Treatments for Acne Scars

Overview of Laser Treatment At the CREO Clinic, our laser scar removal utilizes advanced dual-wavelength technology combining Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers to effectively reduce acne scarring.

• Non-ablative Nd:YAG Laser: Delivers deep heat to stimulate collagen production, enhancing overall skin quality and shrinking sebaceous glands to help reduce future acne breakouts.

• Er:YAG Laser: Precisely resurfaces the skin by vaporizing scar tissue, allowing new, healthy skin to emerge, improving texture and minimizing scars.

How Laser Procedures Enhance Acne Scars The Er:YAG laser removes surface-level scar tissue, encouraging healthy skin regrowth. Meanwhile, the Nd:YAG laser works beneath the surface to promote collagen synthesis, smoothing the skin over time. Immediate improvements in skin texture are often visible after treatment, with optimal results appearing after several months as collagen production continues.

Types of Laser Treatments At Sante Clinic, we use the Fotona Dynamis dual-wavelength laser, combining Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers with Fotona's Variable Square Pulse (VSP) technology. This approach ensures consistent energy delivery, precision, and adaptability to different skin types, reducing risks of pigmentation changes and requiring shorter recovery periods compared to other laser types like CO2 lasers.

Expected Outcomes of Laser Scar Treatment Patients undergoing laser treatment for acne scars can expect gradual improvement in scar appearance as collagen production improves skin texture. Multiple sessions are typically needed for the best results, but significant transformations in skin clarity are achievable.

Recovery & Aftercare Patients usually return immediately to their daily routines. Atrophic scars heal within 5-7 days, whereas hypertrophic scars may take up to two weeks. Post-treatment, keep the treated area clean, apply Aquaphor twice daily for 24 hours, avoid makeup application, and refrain from intense heat or exercise for 48 hours. Antibiotic creams or antiviral medication may be recommended based on individual needs.

Microneedling for Acne Scars

What is Microneedling? Microneedling involves using fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries, stimulating collagen and elastin production. At our clinic, we enhance this treatment by incorporating radiofrequency (RF) energy delivered through adjustable-depth needles, further boosting skin rejuvenation.

Effectiveness of Microneedling Morpheus8 microneedling combines RF energy with traditional microneedling to promote significant collagen and elastin production, effectively treating mild to moderate acne scars and enhancing skin texture.

Procedure & Outcomes A local anesthetic is applied 60-90 minutes before treatment to minimize discomfort. Fine needles create micro-injuries while delivering RF energy. Multiple sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart, typically yield noticeable improvements in acne scarring.

Recovery & Aftercare Expect mild swelling and tenderness, lasting about 24-48 hours, with potential downtime extending to 3-5 days for deeper treatments. Avoid makeup for 2-3 days, apply high-SPF sunscreen, and avoid touching the area to promote optimal healing.

Comparing Microneedling and Laser Therapy

Type & Severity of Acne Scars Microneedling effectively addresses mild to moderate scars, including rolling and boxcar scars. Laser therapy, particularly Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers, offers broader effectiveness, tackling deeper and varied scar types like ice pick scars.

Combining Treatments for Enhanced Results Microneedling and laser treatments complement each other effectively. Microneedling boosts collagen and elastin, promoting surface rejuvenation, while Nd:YAG lasers address deeper scars and pigmentation issues. Finally, Er:YAG lasers refine the skin's surface texture, providing comprehensive acne scar improvement.

Laser therapy provides a more robust, versatile treatment for acne scarring, with microneedling serving as an excellent supportive procedure.