Laser Acne Scarring Treatment: What to Expect Before and After

Struggling with acne scars can feel like a never-ending battle. Even long after breakouts are gone, the skin can be left with permanent reminders in the form of pitted scars, uneven texture, and discoloration. Fortunately, advancements in skincare, especially laser acne scarring treatment—offer hope. At Skin Medicine, our experienced dermatologist, Dr. Pretty Basra, specializes in customized laser therapy for acne scars designed to transform your skin safely and effectively.

What Causes Acne Scars?

To understand how laser treatments work, it's helpful to first understand why acne scars develop. When severe acne inflames the skin, it damages the underlying tissue. As the skin tries to heal, it may produce too little or too much collagen, resulting in acne scar types such as:

• Ice pick scars: Deep and narrow

• Boxcar scars: Wide with sharp edges

• Rolling scars: Shallow with a wave-like appearance

Scarring can also lead to hyperpigmentation, making the marks even more noticeable. While over-the-counter creams and at-home treatments offer minimal improvement, laser treatments go deeper to stimulate collagen regeneration and long-term healing.

How Laser Acne Scarring Treatment Works

Laser therapy works by using concentrated light to remove damaged skin layers and encourage the body’s natural healing process. The result? Skin rejuvenation, smoother texture, and more even tone.

At Skin Medicine, we use different laser technologies for skin based on the client’s skin type, severity of scarring, and desired outcomes. Our advanced systems allow for precision and safety while ensuring maximum results with minimum downtime.

Types of Laser Treatments We Offer

1. Fractional Laser Acne Scar Treatment Delivers laser energy in tiny, controlled micro-injuries, targeting scar tissue while leaving surrounding skin intact. This enhances recovery and encourages natural healing.

2. CO2 Laser for Acne Scars One of the most intensive treatments for deep acne scar revision, this ablative laser removes outer skin layers and heats the underlying tissue to promote regeneration.

3. Non-Invasive Acne Scar Treatment Perfect for those with mild to moderate scars, these non-ablative lasers stimulate collagen beneath the surface with little to no skin damage or recovery time.

4. Acne Scar Laser Resurfacing A method that resurfaces the skin to reduce scar depth and improve skin texture.

   
   

Before Laser Treatment: What You Should Know

Your journey at Skin Medicine begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Pretty Basra, who will analyze your skin and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Pre-Treatment Guidelines:

• Avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks

• Discontinue retinol and acid-based products

• Stay well-hydrated

• Discuss medications and medical history

• Get informed about treatment cost for acne scars (which varies depending on the number of sessions and laser type)

This preparation ensures that your skin is ready for the procedure and reduces the risk of complications.

During the Procedure: What to Expect

The actual dermatological procedure typically lasts between 30 to 90 minutes. To ensure comfort, a numbing cream is applied before the laser is used. The sensation can vary depending on the depth and type of laser used—most patients describe it as a mild tingling or rubber-band snapping feeling.

Laser energy is directed onto the scarred areas, where it begins the process of breaking down damaged tissue and stimulating new collagen production. This triggers natural healing, which is essential for post-acne scar reduction and improved texture.

Aftercare: The Healing Process

What to Expect After Laser Acne Treatment

Immediately following treatment, your skin may feel warm, red, and slightly swollen—similar to a sunburn. This is completely normal and part of the skin healing process. Depending on the type of laser, recovery times vary:

• Ablative lasers (like CO2) may require 7–10 days of recovery

• Non-ablative lasers usually need just 1–3 days

  
  

Skincare After Laser Treatment:

• Use a gentle cleanser and fragrance-free moisturizer

• Avoid picking or scratching the treated skin

• Apply high SPF sunscreen every day

• Stay hydrated and avoid hot showers or strenuous activities

Dr. Pretty Basra will provide a complete aftercare routine tailored to your skin. Proper aftercare not only reduces the risk of side effects but also boosts the long-term effectiveness of your treatment.

Results: Before and After Laser Acne Treatment

You can expect gradual improvements over a period of weeks to months. Most clients at Skin Medicine see smoother skin, reduced pigmentation, and shallower scars after 2–4 sessions. Results are enhanced when multiple treatments are combined with a good skincare routine.

Acne Scar Treatment Results Include:

• Significant reduction in pitted acne scars

• Improved skin tone and brightness

• Smoother texture and fewer visible lines

• Diminished discoloration and hyperpigmentation treatment

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Microneedling vs Laser: Which Is Better?

Both treatments can improve acne scarring, but they work differently. Microneedling creates micro-punctures in the skin to boost collagen, while laser treatments offer more precision, especially for deep or textured scars. In many cases, Dr. Pretty Basra may recommend combining both for enhanced outcomes.

Chemical Peel vs Laser: What’s Right for You?

Chemical peels are great for surface-level pigmentation and light scarring. However, for deeper scars and more dramatic results, laser acne scarring treatment is typically more effective. Our laser treatments reach deeper skin layers, allowing for more substantial and longer-lasting improvements.

Why Choose Skin Medicine for Laser Scar Treatment?

Choosing the right provider is essential. At Skin Medicine, our clinic is equipped with the latest laser skin clinic technologies, and Dr. Pretty Basra, a qualified and trusted skin expert, performs all procedures. We focus on safe, evidence-based approaches that deliver real results.

Whether you're struggling with shallow boxcar scars or deeper ice pick scars, our tailored plans can restore your confidence and transform your skin.

Conculsion

Laser acne scar treatments have evolved to become a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option for those seeking lasting change. With tailored plans, state-of-the-art equipment, and expert care, Skin Medicine is committed to helping you achieve your best skin yet.

Don't let acne scars define you. Schedule your consultation today with Dr. Pretty Basra at Skin Medicine and start your journey to clear, radiant, and scar-free skin.