Laser Acne Scar Removal – Ablative or Non-Ablative Lasers?

Some adults are choosing laser acne scar removal to permanently hide the unsightly reminder of a teenage battle with complexion issues. Advances in technology make laser acne scar removal one of the more popular treatments.

There are two forms of laser treatments for removal of acne scars: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative lasers remove the outer layers of the skin and can require some recovery or down time; non-ablative lasers provide quicker treatments because they don’t damage the surface of the skin, instead they tighten the skin to stimulate new formation of collagen.

The most common ablative technique uses a YAG laser, which makes use of carbon dioxide and eribium. The procedure burns the skin to a desired depth, removing the damaged layers and promoting new skin growth beneath. While it doesn’t completely remove the scars of acute acne sufferers, it reduces the look of the overall scarring dramatically. The skin recovers in about two weeks, but the redness may last for several weeks to several months. Another drawback to ablative lasers is the possibility of permanent change of pigmentation (whitening).

Non-ablative techniques have been improving over the years and are becoming more commonly used laser treatments by dermatologists. Considered a “non-destructive” procedure, these lasers are less risky and more effective at treating acne scarring. Non-ablative is available in two forms: pulsed-dye laser and fractionated.

Pulsed-dye laser uses a concentrated beam of light to destroy the blood vessels in the scar, removing the red color and promoting new collagen growth. Fractionated is when the laser is focused on the affected areas and the unaffected (unscarred skin) is exposed to minimal lasers and therefore requires less healing time. The non-ablative approach generally requires four monthly treatments, but the collagen reformation can last for weeks after.

The cost involved with using having laser acne scar removal can be prohibitive and most insurance companies view it as cosmetic instead of medically necessary, so it’s often not a covered expense. However, for some the cost invested is well-worth the result of being able to have a virtually scar-free appearance.

Tagged with: ablative laser • acne scars treatment • Laser • laser acne scar removal • laser acne scars • laser scar removal • non-ablative laser • Scar • YAG

Filed under: Acne Scar Removal

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!