Acne Scar Treatment
Acne scars are the result of inflammation from acne blemishes.
Acne scars are the result of inflammation from acne blemishes. The acne pore swells and a breakdown occurs in the wall of the pore. Some acne blemishes are small and the scars created are shallow and heal quickly. Sometimes the contents of blemishes spill into the surrounding tissue and cause deeper scars. The skin’s response is to repair the scar by forming new collagen fibers.
Acne scars take on two main forms: either a scar develops when there is a loss of tissue, resulting in an indentation in the surface of the skin; or, a scar develops that is raised on the surface of the skin. This type of acne scar, in fact, is a sign that your skin is doing its job — but, perhaps, too well. Your skin creates collagen (“repair tissue”) to help heal the wound but, if it makes too much collagen, raised scars form.
Even when we do our best to prevent acne scars, some people are prone to scarring. There are many treatment options, which can significantly diminish depressed and raised acne scars.
During a consultation, your New Light Team Member will develop a custom treatment plan based on your skin type and the severity of your acne scars. In addition to quality Vivier® Skin Care products, we may suggest a combination of in-clinic treatments utilizing cutting edge technology. New Light offers two laser treatments that assist with improving Acne Scars:
PicoSure® - This innovative skin rejuvenation treatment is non-invasive, requires minimal downtime and has guaranteed results. As the world’s first, fastest, safest and most effective picosecond laser technology, PicoSure® uses ultra-short and fast bursts of laser light energy to penetrate the surface of the skin, gently targeting pigmentation or abrasions, encouraging the body’s natural healing process to sweep away older, damaged tissue and rebuild it with new collagen and elastin. This is accomplished without causing any damage to the surrounding tissue.
PicoSure® treatment sessions are quick and effective, taking as little as 30 minutes or less, depending on the size of the targeted area. Little to no downtime is experienced with PicoSure® as the laser does not break the surface of the skin or cause any lasting harm. Noticeable results will be apparent as early as the first treatment, but following your clinic professional’s advice, it may take up to 3-7 consistent sessions to achieve your desired result.
Pre-treatment/Post treatment Instructions - PicoSure®
Precautions to take before your light-based treatment:
- No sun exposure, tanning beds and sunless tanning cream for 4 weeks prior to treatment. Sun exposure decreases the effectiveness of the laser treatment and can increase the chance of Post treatment complications.
- Use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply to the treated area every 2 hours when exposed to the sun and it is recommended to make this a part of your skin care routine.
- Remove all makeup, creams or oils prior to treatment.
- Be sure to inform your care provider if you have ever had cosmetic tattoos or cosmetic pigmentation or permanent makeup applied near the area of treatment.
Instructions following your laser treatment:
General
- Cleanse the treated area at least daily with water and mild soap, and then pat the area dry.
- Do not rub or scratch the treated area.
- If crusting/scabbing occurs, do not shave or pick the area. Apply Aquaphor ointment (tattoo) or other moisturizer (face) to the area 2 - 3 times per day. Keep the area moist, and let the crusting/scabbing resolve on its own.
- If you are prone to breakouts or have oily skin, consider waiting 24 hours before applying any topical products.
- Discomfort may be relieved by cold gel packs and/or an over the counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen.
- Avoid contact sports or any other activity that could cause injury to the treated area.
- Avoid swimming, soaking or using the hot tub/whirlpool until the skin heals.
- Contact your physician if there is any indication of infection (redness/tenderness or pus).
