Why is this procedure done?

Laser resurfacing can be used to treat:

• Fine wrinkles
• Age spots
• Uneven skin tone or texture
• Sun-damaged skin
• Mild to moderate acne scars

Risks and side effects

Some risks and side effects are there when you use lasers to treat your acne scars. These side effects will depend on what kind of laser has been used, your skin type, and how many sessions you need.

Some of the side effects may include:

• Swelling
• Redness/Inflammation
• Pain at the site of treatment
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Discoloration
• Infection
• Crusting

Pain from laser treatment is usually gone in an hour or two.

Risks of using laser treatment for acne scars to minimize the appearance of acne scarring include hyperpigmentation and infection. However, these conditions are rare and often preventable, so it's important to talk to your doctor about the risk factors before you decide to go ahead with treatment. If you notice any pus, inflammation, or fever after the treatment, you’ll need to go to your doctor right away.

Myths Vs. Facts

Myth - Lasers expose you to radiation

Fact - Lasers are safe since they use light instead of harmful ionizing radiation.

Myth - Laser light is harmful to health.

Fact - Laser light penetrates only 1-4 mm into the skin. While doing laser acne scar removal procedures only superficial skin layers are targeted.

Myth - Lasers cause cancers

Fact - Lasers are used to remove skin and other cancers.

Myth - Lasers result in thinner skin.

Fact - Lasers cause thickening of skin after treatments.

How does it work?

The heat from the laser is used to remove the outer layer of your skin on which a scar has formed. As this outer layer of your scar peels off, your skin appears smoother, and the appearance of the scar is minimized.

When the scar tissue breaks apart, heat and light from the laser encourages new and healthy skin cells to grow. Blood flow is drained to the targeted area by the laser's heat, and inflammation is reduced.

All of this together makes a scar look less red and raised, by giving them a tiny appearance. It helps in the healing of your skin.

What to expect after the procedure?

After the treatment, dermatologist will bandage the treated area and patients will be required to:

• Clean the area after the first 24 hours and then 4-5 times a day.
• After cleaning the treatment area, apply an ointment that your doctor has prescribed to you.
• You can also expect swelling and itching around the treated area for 2-3 days after treatment. And also sloughing and peeling off of old skin five to seven days after treatment.

Healing usually takes 10 to 21 days, after the treatment, depending on the location and size of the procedure. Once the treated area is fully healed, you should:

• Use oil-free makeup for at least two to three months.
• Avoid going out in the sun.
• Use an appropriate sunscreen on the treated area.
• Keep the new skin well-moisturized.

Results

After laser treatment, your skin might stay inflamed for up to several days or months. But once the healing starts around the treatment area, you will see a difference in your skin quality, appearance, skin texture, and pigment.

After laser resurfacing, always use sun protection. Every day, use a moisturizer and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Acne scars can have a huge impact on your self-esteem and quality of life. If you’re unhappy with your appearance, laser treatment might be an option worth considering. Results vary from person to person, but most people see a significant improvement in the appearance of their skin after laser treatment.

At Arra Aesthetics, Pune, we have successfully treated many patients with acne scars and delivered amazing results. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to speak with Dr. Vasant Gholave at Arra Aesthetics, Pune. He will be more than happy to help you. Contact us at +91-8378860999 or email us at arraaesthetics@gmail.com to book a consultation.