Acne Scarring
Acne scarring can significantly impact both self-esteem and quality of life, leaving behind uneven skin texture, depressions, and discoloration. Atrophic scars, including rolling, boxcar, and ice pick scars, are the most common. At NSDL, we specialise in treating acne scarring using advanced procedural and energy based device technologies, tailored to each patient’s unique skin type and scar severity.
Single session multimodal acne scar revision
We use a variety of modalities to treat acne scars, often combining multiple treatments for the best results in a single session. This approach is called single session multimodal acne scar revision, where different techniques, devices and laser wavelengths are used in a single session to target various aspects of acne scars, such as depth, colour and pigmentation.
Common techniques and devices deployed depend on your individual presentation:
Vascular Lasers: these are used for post inflammatory red marks on your skin
QS nano lasers: are used for post inflammatory brown marks
Combination fractionated lasers: including CO2, Profractional Erbium lasers, non-ablative lasers & hybrid lasers are used for various depths of atrophic rolled scars. These lasers penetrate deep into the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of rolling scars. Fractional lasers are effective for resurfacing the skin and reducing the depth of acne scars.
Ablative CO2 Laser Targeted CO2 laser is highly effective precise technique for treating deep scars like ice pick and boxcar scars. It works by ablating the scar tissue and stimulating the skin to heal and regenerate, creating smoother skin texture.
Brush TCA Cross: largely superseded by targeted CO2, this is another way to manage icepicks and box scars.
Subcision: Subcision is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat deep, tethered acne scars. A small needle is inserted under the scar to break the fibrous bands that pull the skin down. This procedure is often combined with laser treatments to maximize results.
Intralesional Corticosteroid: for thick hypertophic scars steroids are sometimes injected into the scar to help flatten raised scars
How single session multimodal acne scar revision works
An appointment is made with a dermatologist who specialises in Acne Scarring. Your acne scars are then assessed and a treatment plan specific to your needs is created. Studies indicate that combining techniques and technologies in a single session leads to better and more efficient results. Please see the link to a paper regarding this:
NW Single session customized multimodal acne scar rehabilitation
Number of Treatments
The number of treatments depends on your scar features and severity. This can vary from 1-4 treatments spaced 8-10 weeks apart depending on the nature of your acne. Some people elect to space treatments at a greater interval. This is assessed on a case by case basis.
Side Effects, Recovery Time, and Safety
Treatment is generally safe. Temporary redness, swelling is normal day 1-2. Peeling of the skin occurs day 3-4. The skin returns to normal day 7-10. Depending on treatments deployed persistent mild erythema coverable with makeup may occur for up to 4 weeks. With ablative treatments like CO2 lasers and targeted CO2, patients may experience more significant downtime but the crusts normally resolve by 10 days. Purple bruising can occur after subcision but typically subsides within a week.
When to Expect Results
Improvements can be seen within a few weeks of the first treatment, but full results develop over several months as collagen builds and scars gradually fade. Results continue to improve for 6-12 months following treatment.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
Aftercare instructions & a kit will be supplied to you. These instructions are:
Cleansing (AM/PM): Vinegar Wash or Mild Cleanser
Days 1-3: Stratacel (Medical Grade Dressing Gel)
Patients should apply a pea-sized amount of Stratacel to the treated area.
This dressing gel will maintain a moist environment to support wound healing, minimize water loss, and protect the skin.
It has been shown to reduce redness by up to 50% during the healing process.
Day 4-10:Toleriane Sensitive Facial Moisturiser
Patients should apply a 5c-sized amount of Toleriane Sensitive Facial Moisturiser evenly over the treated area.
The moisturiser is rich in calming and cooling ingredients such as glycerine, ceramides, and B3 to soothe and hydrate the skin.
This step should be done after cleansing to ensure the skin remains hydrated and comfortable.
Patients are encouraged to spray Thermal Spring Water on the skin at any time to hydrate and provide additional comfort.
Sun Avoidance: Patients should avoid sun exposure for at least 48 hours after the procedure.
Sunscreen: Sunscreen should not be applied until after peeling is complete to prevent irritation on freshly resurfaced skin.
Patients are encouraged to send photos Day 1,3,6 after the procedure.
It’s essential to keep the treated area moisturised and protected from sun exposure. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled every 6-8 weeks to monitor your progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan if necessary.
Keep the treated area moisturised and protected from the sun. Avoid picking or scrubbing the area to prevent irritation or infection. Apply silicone tape daily (available from Amazon) and use pressure garments as needed. Massaging thick scars for 20 minutes daily can also be beneficial.
If you experience prolonged redness, swelling, or signs of infection, contact the clinic immediately. While complications are rare, they should be addressed promptly.
Book in for an Acne Scaring Consultation with one of our Dermatologists below.
If you have already had a consultation with one of our Dermatologists, and are ready to book in your Laser Treatments, please phone: (02) 9958 1555.
FAQs
What types of acne scars can be treated with lasers?
We treat all types of acne scars, including rolling, boxcar, ice pick, and pigmented scars.
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients require 3-10 sessions depending on the severity of their scars. Treatments are spaced > 8 weeks for best results.
Is subcision combined with laser treatment?
Yes, subcision is often combined with laser treatments to release deeper scars tethered by fibrous tissue. This combination provides more dramatic improvements in skin texture.
Does acne scar treatment hurt?
Some patients experience mild discomfort, but numbing creams and cooling devices are used to minimize pain during treatment. Subcision may cause temporary bruising.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are usually mild and may include redness, swelling, and skin dryness. Deeper treatments like CO2 lasers or subcision may require more downtime.
How soon will I see results?
Improvements begin to show within a few weeks, with full results visible over several months as the skin continues to regenerate.
Can laser treatments remove scars completely?
While laser treatments can significantly reduce the appearance of scars, they cannot remove them completely. Our goal is to improve the texture and appearance of your skin.
Is laser treatment safe for all skin types?
Yes, but darker skin types may require special precautions to avoid pigmentation changes. Our experienced dermatologists will tailor the treatment to your skin type.
Can I combine laser treatment with other therapies?
Yes, laser treatments can be combined with other therapies such as subcision, laser-assisted drug delivery, and fillers for enhanced results.
Is there downtime after acne scar treatments?
Downtime varies depending on the treatment. Mild treatments have little to no downtime, while deeper treatments like CO2 lasers may require 1-2 weeks of recovery.
Before & Afters
All medical and cosmetic procedures involve some risks. The information provided here is for general educational purposes only. The results achieved for patients in before and after pictures are individual and may not be achievable for you specifically. For specific advice regarding your situation, please book an appointment at NSDL.