Laser Skin Resurfacing for Acne Scars: What to Expect
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Dealing with pitted scars or textured skin from past breakouts? You may want to consider laser treatment for acne scars. This treatment uses advanced technology to resurface damaged skin and stimulate collagen production.
At Wellness Diagnostics and Medispa in Temecula, CA, Dr. Gloria Tumbaga helps patients from Menifee, Murrieta, and San Diego understand what to expect from skin resurfacing and how it can transform their appearance. Call now to get started with our team today.
What causes acne scars?
First, what causes acne scars? They tend to form when acne breakouts penetrate deep into the skin, damaging the tissue beneath the surface. However, if your body produces too little collagen during the healing process, you're left with pitted scars or depressions. If it produces too much, raised or hypertrophic scars can develop.
Factors such as genetics and skin type play a role in whether scars form and how severe they become. While topical treatments can help with some skin concerns, they can't fix textured skin or deeper scarring. Laser treatment for acne scars may be able to help.
How laser skin resurfacing works
Laser skin resurfacing uses targeted light energy to remove damaged layers and stimulate collagen production. At Wellness Diagnostics and Medispa, Dr. Tumbaga uses the 4D Facelift system, which combines two laser wavelengths (Er:YAG and Nd:YAG) with four treatment modes to address scarring at multiple levels.
By working on deeper, medial, and superficial layers of the skin, the treatment comprehensively addresses scarring and promotes smoother, healthier tissue.
What to expect during laser treatment
Laser treatment for acne scars typically takes 30 – 60 minutes to perform at our office in Temecula, CA. During the procedure, a laser is passed over the scarred areas in a controlled pattern. You may experience warmth or tingling, but most patients tolerate the procedure well. Afterward, your skin will be red and may feel sensitive, similar to a sunburn. This is a normal part of healing and typically subsides within a few days.
Recovery and aftercare
Recovery from skin resurfacing depends on the intensity of the treatment. For gentler sessions, redness and swelling usually fade within a few days. More aggressive treatments may require up to a week of downtime as the skin heals.
During recovery, it's important to keep your skin clean and moisturized. Avoid UV exposure and wear sunscreen daily to protect healing tissue. Dr. Tumbaga will provide specific aftercare instructions, including which products to use at home.
Results and how long they last
Results from laser treatment for acne scars develop gradually. You'll start to notice smoother, more even skin within a few weeks. Full results typically appear after 3 – 6 months, with continued improvement as your skin remodels. For optimal results, several sessions may be recommended, spaced a few weeks apart.
Outcomes can last for years with proper skincare and sun protection.
Transform your skin with laser resurfacing
If you're struggling with pitted scars, textured skin, or other signs of acne scarring, Wellness Diagnostics and Medispa in Temecula, CA, is here to help. Do you have questions such as, "What causes acne scars?" or do you want to know more about laser treatment? Dr. Gloria Tumbaga specializes in skin resurfacing and serves patients from Menifee, Murrieta, and San Diego. Call today and discover we can help give you smoother, clearer skin.