Did you know that nearly 60 million people suffer from acne in the U.S.? It can affect everyone, from teenagers to adults, and even celebrities like Megan Fox and Rihanna who always seem to look flawless. There’s a huge feeling of relief once you’ve gotten rid of your acne, but for some, they’re left with varying amounts of scarring. The good news is that there are several acne scar treatments available that are designed to eliminate mild to severe acne scarring, restoring your confidence and giving you the smooth, beautiful skin you’ve always wanted. Take a look at the list below.
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Fraxel® Dual Laser
How does it work – The Fraxel® DUAL laser resurfacing treatment is a revolutionary technology that uses microscopic columns of light to target the deep layers of your skin. It works by stimulating collagen production and the growth of new, healthy skin cells. The laser treats only a fraction of tissue at a time, which leaves the surrounding tissue intact and promotes rapid healing.
Duration – The procedure usually takes 20 to 25 minutes for a full face.
Side Effects – The side effects of this treatment are typically mild and include redness, swelling, and sunburn-like reactions. These typically resolve within a few days.
Downtime and Results – There is no downtime associated with Fraxel Dual Laser treatments. Patients can typically return to their normal activities immediately following treatment.
Also, The Fraxel Dual Laser gives you immediate results after your first treatment, but the full effects are visible usually after 2-3 months. During that time, the treatment structure allows the skin to repair and replace damaged tissue. Your doctor will let you know how many treatments you’ll need to get the results you want.
SmartXide DOT Therapy – CO2 Laser
How does it work – SmartXideDOT Therapy utilizes CO2 laser technology to resurface and rejuvenate skin. It affects small areas of skin, instead of the entire top layer. This process tricks your body into thinking it has been injured, triggering a boost in the production of collagen. As new collagen is created, it works to fill in the scars on your face, leaving your skin smoother and healthy looking.
Duration – The face is treated in about 15 minutes. However, the procedure begins with the application of an anesthetic cream that needs to stay on your skin for about an hour.
Side Effects – Redness and peeling for the first couple of days (5-7), but these will resolve on their own.
Downtime and Results – Requires very little downtime for recovery. You will begin to see your results within about a month after treatment, with your final results visible about four to six months after the procedure.
PicoSure
How does it work – PicoSure is a laser treatment, utilizing short-pulse lasers focused on the treatment area to deliver fast bursts of energy. These bursts are so quick that they can target the specific scar with no heat damage to the surrounding tissue. Actually, the device delivers energy into the dermis, where fibroblasts—the cells responsible for producing collagen—are located. When these cells receive this new energy, they begin to remodel the collagen matrix of acne scars, resulting in a smoother texture.
Duration – The procedure should take about half an hour, but the exact time depends on the severity of the scars.
Side Effects – Skin may appear pink for a few days following treatment.
Downtime and Results – No downtime is required, and results start showing within one to two months of beginning treatment. Depending on the severity of your scars, you may need more than one treatment, but once you’ve completed the optimal number of sessions, you will be able to enjoy lasting results.
EndyMed Intensif
How does it work – EndyMed Intensif utilizes a microneedle device to focus radiofrequency (RF) energy into your skin. The RF energy allows deep dermal penetration to stimulate collagen production without overheating or damaging your epidermal layer or any surrounding tissues.
Duration – Most sessions take between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the severity of your scarring and the size of the treatment area.
Side Effects – There may be temporary redness and swelling like sunburn, but they resolve on their own.
Downtime and Results – There is no downtime needed, and results appear gradually over the following months. You may only need one treatment to see noticeable results, but for optimal results, you may need more than one session.
Venus Concept - Venus Viva™ MD
How does it work – Venus Viva is one of the best acne scar treatments available today! It utilizes radio frequency waves and microneedling to create micro-damage in the skin. This damage stimulates new skin cell growth and collagen production, resulting in smoother skin tone.
Duration – The treatment takes 15-30min.
Side Effects – The procedure is virtually painless and offers no side effects.
Downtime and Results – There is no downtime, and most patients need 3-4 treatments to achieve optimal results. Injectable fillers can also be used to enhance the treatment.
Conclusion
If you have noticeable scarring as a result of acne, it may be time to explore our minimally invasive acne scar treatments at Sadick Dermatology. Call us today at 212-772-7242 to schedule an appointment for a consultation to determine what procedure will rejuvenate your skin and leave you looking as beautiful as you feel.
