Laser Treatment for Acne Scars

Before undergoing any kind of laser resurfacing, it's important to thoroughly research physicians before having treatment. In the wrong hands, a laser can make the skin worse and cause permanent damage. In the right hands, it can significantly improve scars. Thankfully, there are several less invasive lasers on the market today that lessen the risk of complications.

Types of Lasers
There are several kinds of lasers. Non-ablative lasers are the latest in acne laser treatment and cause little downtime. One of the most popular non-ablative lasers for the treatment of acne scars is the Smoothbeam laser. It stimulates collagen in the skin and helps depressed areas to refill.

For reduction of redness, the Vbeam laser is often used. Because this laser gets rid of redness, it is also frequently used in the treatment of rosacea and other vascular problems. This laser is often used in conjunction with the Smoothbeam for optimal results.

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For more serious scarring that does not respond to the non-ablative lasers, ablative lasers may be the only option. These lasers have more downtime. They work by removing the outermost layers of skin. The two most common lasers in this category are the Erbium:Yag laser and the CO2 laser. These lasers are also used in the treatment of fine lines and other skin problems. The benefits of these lasers in the treatment of acne scars are that fewer treatments are necessary to see results. However, there is a greater risk for permanent skin damage if the doctor is not experienced in their use.