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Acne & Acne Scarring

Long after acne has cleared, scars can remain, perhaps an unwanted reminder of a skin condition long gone. Make-up rarely completely hides scarring and can, in fact, cause the skin to erupt once more.

SmartXide - Laser Skin Resurfacing

The most effective treatment for acne scarring is laser skin resurfacing, utilising SmartXide DOT therapy. Laser resurfacing works by penetrating the skin beneath each scar to stimulate collagen remodelling and levelling out of the skin as well as improving the overall quality of the skin. When combined with a bespoke skin care regimen as well as some phototherapeutic exposure such as with Omnilux, results are even better.

My patients have been extremely happy with the improvements seen with laser resurfacing. Baby smooth skin is not a realistic goal, but good improvements are common and as a result, my patients report a boost in their confidence. And as long as no more scarring occurs, these results can be permanent!

Dermal fillers such as Restylane, Juvéderm^® and Radiesse can also be used to markedly improve appearance, but only after subcission. (Subcission is where the doctor uses the tip of a needle to release the fibrous bands that pull the scar down into the skin). Once released, the filler can be injected into the scar to smooth it out as far as possible. Results are not perfect but there is good improvements that last between 6 – 9 months.

The process can be repeated for each scar, the exception being ‘ice-pick’ scars or scars which do not flatten when stretched.

Sculptra

Another highly effective treatment for acne scarring is Sculptra, which acts by stimulating new collagen growth in the skin. Sculptra is injected beneath the scars and using advanced techniques, our doctors are able to significantly reduce the appearance of acne scars, with effects taking about 3 months to work, but lasting for up to 2 years. 2-3 sessions are required, 6 weeks apart.

Combination Facial Therapy

Using a combination OBAGI MEDICAL, medical Advanced AHA Skin Peels, Phototherapy, Medical Microdermabrasion, and SmartXide acne scars can be significantly reduced. Although skin cannot be restored entirely, these techniques yield highly effective results.