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Microneedling and Laser Treatment for Acne Scars: Effectiveness, Costs, What To Expect, and More

With more advanced technology for skin rejuvenation being developed, patients now have more options for having younger, smoother, acne-free skin. Two of the hottest treatments right now for skin resurfacing and acne scars are microneedling and laser treatment. Both have their own pros and cons and essentially differ in how they work. Let’s talk about their effectiveness, costs, how they work, and more.

Microneedling for Acne Scars

Microneedling is a popular treatment for acne scars. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that uses a device with very fine needles to create perforations on the skin and encourage new collagen and skin tissue to grow. 

This procedure takes advantage of the skin’s natural ability to heal itself by producing more collagen and new skin cells. This process reduces acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles and even addresses hyperpigmentation. The end result? Younger, smoother, and more even-toned facial skin. 

During the procedure, doctors will use an FDA-approved, medical-grade microneedling device to puncture the skin. The punctures are almost invisible and require no downtime. Many patients have reported a painless microneedling experience but others may find it slightly painful as everybody has varying levels of pain tolerance. To reduce any chance of discomfort and keep you relaxed during the treatment, doctors usually use some topical medicine on the skin.

The entire treatment can take about an hour depending on the size of the area being treated and calming treatment is usually applied afterward. You may go back to work or school right away or take some time off, whichever works for you. Results become noticeable within a few weeks but for more dramatic results, multiple sessions are recommended along with complementary treatments like PRP and RF. 

A single microneedling session may cost anywhere from $200 to $700 depending on the size of the target area and the condition of your skin. When opting for this treatment, you’ll want to consider all the cumulative costs to avoid any surprise bills. 

Laser Treatment for Acne Scars

Laser is an innovative technology that’s been used for a wide variety of applications including skin rejuvenation and acne scar reduction. Laser treatment for acne scars focuses light on the epidermis — the top layer of the skin, to break up scar tissue.

The whole process of breaking up scar tissue using a laser encourages the production of new collagen and allows new, healthy skin cells to regrow. Depending on the type and condition of your skin, your doctor may recommend either ablative, non-ablative, or fractionated laser treatments. Each of these works in a unique way and uses a specific laser device to address the type of scarring you have.  

With laser treatment for acne scars, you’ll start seeing the results within one to two weeks. The best part of this treatment is it offers long lasting results especially when the scarring is only mild. The number of sessions you will need depends on the severity of the scarring and can be anywhere from one to three sessions with four to six weeks intervals. 

Laser treatment is a fantastic procedure to reduce acne scars. But like many cosmetic procedures, it does come with some risks. Typical side effects include swelling, redness, and pain in the treatment area. Any sign of pus, swelling, or fever should be reported to your provider immediately.

A single session of laser treatment for acne scars can range from $200 to $3,400 dollars depending on the size of the scar and the extent of the treatment. But whether or not this treatment is right for you is something you should discuss with your provider.

Microneedling vs Laser Treatment: Which Is Better for You?

Both microneedling and laser treatment for acne scars have their own pros and cons. Microneedling has a quicker recovery time and fewer potential side effects. However, the results are more subtle compared to laser treatments and require multiple sessions for optimal results.

With laser treatment for acne scars, results are more dramatic and more permanent. However, it comes with more potential risks and side effects than microneedling so a thorough consultation with your provider is a must.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the potential side effects or risks associated with microneedling and laser treatment for acne scars?

Potential side effects and risks associated with microneedling and laser treatment for acne scars include temporary redness, swelling, and discomfort in the treated area. In some cases, there may be minor bleeding or bruising. Rarely, more serious side effects such as infection, scarring, or changes in skin pigmentation can occur. It’s essential to consult with a qualified dermatologist or skincare professional to discuss individual risks and considerations before undergoing treatment.

2. How many sessions of microneedling or laser treatment are typically required to see noticeable improvements in acne scars, and what is the expected timeline for results?
 
The number of sessions required for noticeable improvements in acne scars can vary depending on the severity of the scarring and the specific treatment approach used. Generally, multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart are needed to achieve optimal results. Patients may start to see improvements after the first few sessions, with continued progress over time. However, it’s essential to have realistic expectations and understand that complete scar removal may not be possible in all cases.
 
3. Are there any specific skin types or conditions for which microneedling or laser treatment may not be suitable or effective in treating acne scars?
 
While microneedling and laser treatment can be effective for many individuals with acne scars, there are certain skin types and conditions for which these treatments may not be suitable or effective. For example, individuals with active acne, certain skin infections, or a history of keloid scarring may not be good candidates for these procedures. Additionally, people with darker skin tones may be at a higher risk of experiencing pigmentary changes or other complications. It’s crucial to undergo a thorough evaluation by a qualified skincare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on individual factors and needs.
 

How We Treat Acne Scars at Rejuvenate Aesthetics

Cosmetic Rejuvenation Center uses the most advanced skin rejuvenation and acne treatments to remove unsightly acne scars anywhere on your body. Choose from one or a combination of our available acne treatments including chemical peels, IPL Light Therapy, Morpheus 8, and Aerolase Lightpod Neo laser treatment.

The chance to improve your skin confidence is now within your reach. Schedule a consultation with Cosmetic Rejuvenation Center in Pepper Pike, Ohio. We also treat patients in the area including areas in and around the Cleveland, Ohio area.