What Is the Best Treatment for Facial Scars?

Posted August 28, 2018 in Facial Scars, Microneedling, Non-Surgical Treatments

While the causes of acne may be varied (heredity, stress, hormones, and diet), there is one single truth when it comes to acne: almost everyone will experience at least periodic acne flare-ups throughout their adolescence and adulthood. Though it’s possible for these flare-ups to disappear without a trace, there’s a likelier chance that some scarring will be left behind. Acne scars are the result of poorly managed or treated acne. These marks differ in depth and colorization from the surrounding skin, and they are damaging to one’s self-image and confidence. At Aspire Medispa, there are several noninvasive and minimally invasive treatments available to reduce the appearance of acne scars. At Aspire Medispa, we offer a variety of treatment choices based on the severity of the acne scars, five of which are Vbeam Perfecta®, Eclipse MicroPen Elite™, INFINI™ Microneedling RF, ActiveFX™, and DeepFX™.

Vbeam Perfecta®

The Vbeam Perfecta® pulsed dye laser targets and removes the redness left behind by acne. This laser uses light energy to eliminate flaws in the skin. Treatment sessions are quick, comfortable, and they show improvement beginning with the very first treatment. Here, the light energy is sent below the epidermis, which leaves the superficial layers untouched and undamaged; instead, the light is absorbed by the targeted blood vessels. This treatment causes the vessels to shrink and return to a normal color, thus eliminating the redness of acne scars. Treatment with the Vbeam Perfecta® requires no downtime and minimal discomfort. Patients may experience a warm tingling sensation and minor bruising, swelling, and redness after the treatment, but these effects will dissipate quickly. We recommend multiple (three to five) treatments to reach optimal results.

Eclipse MicroPen Elite™

Eclipse MicroPen Elite™ uses microneedling to create controlled injuries to the skin that promote the production of collagen and elastin. This treatment is best used for “rolling” acne scars. These scars are slightly sunken or shallow areas of the skin that result after the initial acne inflammation has disappeared. This procedure is well-tolerated by the skin and results in minimal side effects and discomfort. For most patients, a series of microneedling treatments are required for optimal results.

Microneedling RF by INFINI™

Microneedling RF combines traditional microneedling with radio frequency (RF) energy for faster and more dramatic results. Radio frequency energy is emitted through the needles to heat the underlying layers of skin (dermis), which causes a tightening of the skin. This procedure is more intensive than traditional microneedling treatments. One session usually lasts about 20 minutes. We typically recommend a minimum of three treatment sessions three to four weeks apart. The skin may be red for one to two days following treatment, with final results appearing three to four weeks after the procedure has been performed. This treatment is safe for the sensitive skin around the eyes and mouth and is effective for treating acne scars, uneven skin tone and texture, and even fine lines.

Every person’s acne scarring is unique, and with a consultation and careful consideration, we can match your specific scarring to the best treatment option for you. Relish the feeling of a smooth, scar-free complexion with little-to-no downtime and discomfort.

ActiveFX™ and DeepFX™ by Lumenis®

ActiveFX™ and DeepFX™ are two methods of CO2 laser resurfacing. They utilize short, concentrated pulses of laser energy to remove the skin layer by layer while heating the underlying layers of skin. This stimulates collagen production in the skin and helps to tighten existing collagen fibers. CO2 lasers have been used for years to precisely treat scarring as well as other skin issues. ActiveFX™ is best for mild to moderate wrinkles and pigmentation issues. Deeper scars may require additional treatments. DeepFX™ penetrates deeper into the skin creating a more intense thermal reaction under the skin to stimulate collagen production. Your skin may look and feel like it has a mild sunburn before the treated skin begins to dry, flake off, and heal in one to two days. Deeper treatments may require a week to heal. Pinkness or redness can remain for a few weeks. Most treatments can be performed in a single session, and results can last for years with proper sun protection.

If you are struggling with the appearance of acne scars, there are treatments available that can help. Contact Aspire Medispa at the Valley Institute of Plastic Surgery by calling 559-435-8477 to set up a consultation.