Acne Laser Treatment NYC

The American Academy of Dermatology has identified acne as one of the most common skin conditions in the United States, reporting that up to 50 million Americans are affected annually. One in every five individuals with breakouts is estimated to develop acne scars. Acne scars may present in varying textures and shades, but they all share a common denominator: they can be even more challenging to resolve than acne. Most patients with acne scars require a combination treatment approach to achieve long-lasting results. With so many treatment options available, it can feel overwhelming to determine which are best suited to your particular skin condition. Luckily, with the help of NYC board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, it is possible to eliminate breakouts and acne scars and achieve a clear, healthy, and radiant complexion that lasts.

Laser treatments are considered one of the most effective treatment options for acne scars, and various types of light and laser therapy can also target active acne lesions. Thanks to developing technology, a wide range of cutting-edge light and laser treatments target skin concerns such as breakouts and acne scarring for patients of all skin types and skin tones. Her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side of Manhattan offers the best laser treatments for acne and acne scars, including the Vbeam laser, Photodynamic therapy, Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant, and eMatrix.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive treatment options. As an expert cosmetic board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green uses the most cutting-edge modalities to treat acne scars and breakouts, including dermal fillers, chemical peels, subcision, microneedling, and various laser treatment options. She is consistently identified as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green to eliminate breakouts and reduce the appearance of acne scars, she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan best suited to your unique skin condition, personal aesthetic goals, and skin type.

Acne laser treatment types:

Several light and laser technologies can target active acne breakouts by inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface and reducing the activity of the sebaceous glands.

Photodynamic therapy is a non-invasive treatment option for various concerns, including skin cancer cells, precancerous lesions, active acne, psoriasis, and age-related macular degeneration. Photodynamic therapy, also known as PDT, photo radiation therapy, phototherapy, and photochemotherapy, is a two-part treatment. First, a topical photosensitizer is applied to the treatment area. The photosensitizer is sensitive to a specific wavelength of light and is used to prepare the treatment area for the second part of the procedure. During the second part of Photodynamic therapy, a light source is targeted at the treatment area. There are many different PDT light sources, including laser, intense pulsed, blue, red, and visible light, including natural sunlight. The photosensitizing agent is activated with the appropriate light exposure, producing oxygen radicals that kill the targeted cells that have absorbed the photosensitizing drug. Photodynamic therapy is an effective acne treatment because it reduces the size of the sebaceous glands, limits sebum production, and kills acne-causing bacteria. Avoiding direct light or sunlight in your treatment area for 24-72 hours after your Photodynamic Therapy procedure is recommended. A series of three to five Photodynamic therapy treatments are typically performed in four-week intervals. The number of treatment sessions required will be determined by Dr. Green during your consultation and based on the severity of your acne.

The Vbeam laser is clinically proven to help treat inflammatory acne lesions and reduce the appearance of acne scars. This laser treatment operates on a wavelength of light, 595 nm, that kills acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, and eliminates red pigment from the skin. This laser therapy can also target skin conditions such as rosacea, stretch marks, broken capillaries, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a type of skin discoloration often left behind after acne lesions heal. Most patients require 4-6 Vbeam laser treatments to achieve optimal results. The Vbeam laser is equipped with a patented Dynamic Cooling Device that emits a burst of cool air before each pulse of the laser beam, which maximizes patient comfort during the laser treatment. Additionally, the procedure involves zero downtime, meaning that patients can easily schedule their treatment sessions.

3 eMatrix treatments and 3 vbeam laser treatments

What are the side effects of laser acne treatment?

The most common side effects of acne laser treatment include temporary redness, swelling, and tenderness in the treatment area. Side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own shortly following treatment. Some patients with a history of cold sores may experience a breakout following laser treatment, as any trauma to the skin may induce a flare-up. Advise Dr. Green if you have a history of Herpes Simplex Virus, and you will be prescribed a prophylactic dose of Valtrex to prevent a breakout. The treatment area may be more photosensitive after laser treatment for active acne or scars. Protecting the treatment area from sun exposure following laser treatment is important to achieve and maintain optimal results and protect against UV damage. When you have laser treatment with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, you will receive all the pertinent aftercare information required to guarantee the best results.

Is acne laser treatment worth it?

For many who struggle with pimples and acne scars, their appearance may induce low self-esteem or self-consciousness. Laser treatment can significantly diminish the appearance of active acne breakouts and residual acne scars, resulting in a smooth, clear, healthy appearance and boosting self-confidence. Many of the laser treatment options available at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood are associated with little downtime, meaning the laser treatment sessions can be scheduled easily. With minimal discomfort and downtime, the ability to completely customize one’s personal treatment plan, and consistently stunning results, most patients agree that laser treatment for active acne and acne scars is worth it!

Is acne laser treatment painful?

When you have laser treatment with Dr. Green in New York City, you will receive a topical numbing cream containing lidocaine that should be applied to the entire treatment area one hour before your appointment. This helps to eliminate any potential discomfort associated with the laser treatment. Once you arrive at her private dermatology office in the NYC Upper East Side neighborhood, the numbing cream will be removed and the skin sterilized before your procedure. For any residual tenderness in the treatment area, Dr. Green recommends taking Tylenol as directed.

Is acne laser treatment effective?

Yes! Laser treatment is one of the most effective cosmetic options for reducing acne scarring and has also been clinically proven to reduce active acne. There are various laser technologies that are suited to patients of different skin tones and skin types. Acne laser treatments such as VBeam and Photodynamic therapy have been shown to reduce up to 90% of acne lesions in a treatment area with long-lasting results. Skin resurfacing laser treatments such as the Fraxel and eMatrix lasers are popular cosmetic treatment options for reducing the appearance of acne scars. An expert board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green in NYC, has the experience to recommend the laser treatments that are best suited to you and your particular skin condition so that you avoid unwanted side effects and achieve optimal rejuvenation results.

How old do you have to be to get acne laser treatment?

Patients who are at least 18 years of age can have laser treatment without the consent of a parent or guardian. Teenagers younger than 18 may receive laser treatment with the consent of their parent or guardian. Additionally, it is recommended that patients with active breakouts are not treated for their acne scars until the active acne is under control. Treating acne scars is more effective and long-lasting after successful treatment of acne. When you consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC, she will work with you to eliminate your pimples before beginning acne scar treatment.

Can laser treatment cure acne?

Some types of light therapy and laser treatment can be effective against active acne breakouts. Blue light and red light treatments are FDA-approved for the treatment of acne. Visible light treatments are ineffective against cystic acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and nodules. Photodynamic therapy can be used to treat moderate to severe acne. When you consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, she will collect a thorough medical history, including a family history of acne, review your skincare protocol with you, and discuss any previous acne treatments you’ve undergone. Blood tests may be ordered from the laboratory to determine any underlying factors contributing to the presence of your breakouts. Dr. Green will then work with you to develop a personalized acne treatment plan, including any beneficial laser treatments so that you can best prevent acne scars from forming and achieve a smooth, clear, healthy complexion that lasts.

Can laser treatment cause acne?

Sometimes, patients may experience breakouts following laser treatment. Laser treatments can disrupt the skin’s natural protective barrier, and often, using occlusive ointments in the treatment area, such as Aquaphor, is recommended as part of the aftercare protocol. In addition, the heat associated with many laser treatments may cause heat-related skin irritation and swelling, resulting in red, acne-like lesions on the skin’s surface. If you have acne-prone skin and are receiving laser treatment for cosmetic purposes, let Dr. Green know. Dr. Green will work with you to design a customized protocol that limits breakouts while providing optimal rejuvenation results.

Acne treatment before acne scar treatment

According to Dr. Green, one of the most important principles in treating acne scars is ensuring that your acne breakouts are first under control. Commencing laser treatments while experiencing active acne may improve the appearance of existing acne scars; however, there is still the potential for new acne scars to form. Additionally, undergoing some acne scar treatments with active blemishes in the treatment area may exacerbate the breakouts. Suppose you still struggle with active acne after using treatment options such as a proper skincare routine, topical creams like clindamycin and retinoids, oral antibiotics, Spironolactone, oral contraceptives, or other medications. In that case, Dr. Green may suggest Accutane therapy. Accutane (Isotretinoin) treatment for acne is the gold standard for treating recalcitrant acne and preventing acne scars and hyperpigmentation. Once your active acne is permanently resolved, you can begin successfully treating your acne scars with laser treatment. One important consideration with Isotretinoin therapy is that it will delay your laser treatments for acne scarring by six to twelve months, depending on the modality selected. Ideally, the active acne is resolved before beginning treatment for acne scars to optimize the cosmetic results from your acne scar treatments and prevent the formation of new acne scars.

Acne scar treatment with lasers

Many acne scars exist, including atrophic, boxcar, rolling, icepick, and keloid or raised scars. The treatment for atrophic scars, including boxcars, ice pick, and rolling scars, involves reducing the scar’s depth and resurfacing the skin’s texture. Strict volume replacement is done with either a hyaluronic acid filler, such as Juvederm® or Restylane®, or a collagen-stimulating injection, such as Sculptra®. Laser technology can stimulate neocollagenesis, or new collagen formation, in the skin. The following sections detail some of the acne scar laser treatments often suggested by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green:

Fraxel Laser Treatment

The Fraxel laser is the gold standard for fractionated laser resurfacing. Dr. Green often calls it the ‘magic eraser’ for its unique ability to target various skin conditions. The Fraxel laser treatment operates on two distinct wavelengths, allowing it to treat sun-damaged skin, skin texture irregularities, and acne scars. The 1927 nm wavelength addresses sunspots, hyperpigmentation, and other forms of skin discoloration. The 1550 nm wavelength is excellent for evening out skin texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines, and eliminating acne scars.

This non-ablative fractionated laser uses microscopic laser columns that penetrate deep into the skin while leaving the skin’s surface intact to increase the body’s collagen remodeling while minimizing downtime. Since the Fraxel laser only uses a fraction of tissue at a time, it leaves the surrounding tissue intact, leading to rapid healing. Most patients require a short series of initial Fraxel laser treatment sessions, each spaced approximately one month apart, to achieve ideal results for acne scar reduction. Sunscreen use is always an important part of the after-care process after any laser treatment to minimize sun exposure to the treatment area, prevent hyperpigmentation or redness, and allow the healing process to occur.

Clear and Brilliant Laser

The Clear and Brilliant laser, also known as the “mini-Fraxel,” is a great solution for patients wanting skin rejuvenation benefits from a fractionated laser treatment without downtime. This gentle fractional laser technology allows treatment of targeted areas of your face to achieve smooth and even results without any redness or recovery. It is the ideal treatment for enlarged pores and rejuvenating the skin’s texture, with just 5 to 6 sessions spaced two weeks apart. Dr. Green utilizes the Clear and Brilliant laser and the Permea handpiece, designed for sun damage and areas of pigment, sun damage, and melasma. However, one of the other laser options, such as Fraxel® or Ematrix™, would have increased benefits for deeper acne scars.

VBeam laser treatment for acne and acne scars

The Vbeam® laser is the “gold standard” for treating facial redness, broken blood vessels, and rosacea. The Vbeam is a pulsed dye laser that sends concentrated light energy directly into the target area without damage to surrounding tissue. Ideally, treatments are scheduled monthly, and 4 to 5 treatments will reduce redness from acne and acne scars. Dr. Green utilizes the VBeam Perfecta, the latest VBeam laser, to treat sun spots and unwanted redness. The VBeam laser is also especially good at treating keloid or raised scars. There is no downtime associated with the VBeam laser treatment, which can be done in 15 minutes during your lunch break. In addition, the laser is equipped with a patented Dynamic Cooling Device, which emits a burst of cool air before each laser pulse. This feature enhances patient comfort during the laser treatment. The V-Beam is also highly effective at treating hemangiomas, leg veins, stretch marks, leg veins, angiomas, inflammatory acne lesions, and surgical scars.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, also known as a photo facial, is a way to improve the redness, pigmentation, and texture of your skin. IPL treats photo-aging, acne scars, and skin tone and increases collagen production. Unlike lasers, which use a single wavelength of light, the IPL can use more than one wavelength of pulsating light to treat many different skin conditions simultaneously. It can treat redness, hyperpigmentation, and discoloration from acne scars. Melasma, however, should not be treated with the IPL (or Fraxel laser), as this can cause a worsening of pigment and ultimately make the cosmetic correction of melasma more difficult. Photopneumatic therapy is a unique treatment modality that combines IPL with a suctioning vacuum technology to treat active acne. The light therapy aspect of IPL kills acne-causing bacteria, while the suctioning aspect extracts debris, sebum, and dead skin cells from the pores.

Microneedling for acne scars

Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, is an alternative to laser treatment for acne scarring. Microneedling is a skin rejuvenation process that creates micro-perforations in the skin, which allows for PRP, peptides, or growth factors, to be infused into the skin and promote the growth of collagen, elastic, and new healthy skin. In PRP, a small aliquot of blood is taken from your body, centrifuged, and the PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) is separated. Since the PRP is processed from one’s own blood, there is no risk of allergic reaction or rejection. This PRP is then applied to your skin during the microneedling procedure. The microneedling process opens pathways to the deeper layers of skin and helps smooth out wrinkles, fine lines, tone, texture, and acne scars. Microneedling also has the potential to increase the absorbency of your favorite skin care products by creating microchannels within the skin, allowing for greater penetration.

Vivace Microneedling is a non-invasive treatment option that combines two other modalities: microneedling and radio frequency (RF) energy. Vivace Microneedling is an excellent acne scar treatment option, as the microneedling stimulates new collagen production in the epidermis; at the same time, the radiofrequency energy stimulates collagen production in the dermis, maximizing the cosmetic results. The exact number of treatments an individual needs will ultimately depend upon their specific needs and goals. For optimal results, Dr. Green recommends patients engage in at least three Vivace treatments, each spaced four weeks apart.

eMatrix Sublative Rejuvenation

eMatrix laser utilizes bipolar radiofrequency energy to heat the skin below the surface while the top layer of the skin remains intact, allowing for a relatively short downtime. The eMatrix laser is the gold standard for treating acne scars in Asian patients and those with darker skin tones. Through radiofrequency heat, new collagen tissue is stimulated, acne scars are reduced, and younger, healthier-looking new skin cells are formed. A series of 4 to 6 monthly treatments of eMatrix is generally required for the best cosmetic results. With the production of new collagen, acne scars are reduced, and younger and healthier-looking skin is formed.

CO2 laser resurfacing for acne scars

Ablative skin resurfacing laser treatments, such as carbon dioxide CO2 lasers, remove the entire top layer of the skin in the treatment area. At the same time, the laser heats up the underlying dermal layer of the skin, stimulating new collagen production in the treated area. This laser treatment is more aggressive than a non-ablative laser, such as the Fraxel laser, and requires significantly more downtime. With non-ablative skin resurfacing lasers like Fraxel, the laser beam creates precise and controlled micro-injuries to a targeted treatment area while leaving the surrounding skin untouched. Non-ablative lasers do not remove the top layer of skin as ablative lasers do. CO2 lasers promote collagen remodeling, improve skin tone and texture, and tighten skin, and are commonly used for treating deeper lines and wrinkles. Significantly more downtime is associated with CO2 laser treatment and other ablative skin resurfacing lasers than non-ablative skin resurfacing laser treatments such as Fraxel, which is why many patients prefer Fraxel to CO2.

Which areas of the body can be treated with a laser for acne scars?

Acne breakouts can occur anywhere on the body where there are sebaceous glands. Acne is commonly found on the face, chest, arms, neck, buttocks, and back. Since inflammatory acne can affect several different body areas, it can develop an acne scar in any area. Any laser treatments Dr. Green utilizes to diminish the appearance of acne scars on the face can also be used to treat the acne scars that may affect other areas of the body.

What is the best laser for acne scars?

Acne breakouts are not all the same, nor are the scars they leave behind. The best type of laser for removing your acne scars will ultimately depend upon your scars. The most effective and efficient way to determine which laser resurfacing treatment is most appropriate for managing your acne scars is to consult a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience providing some of the most discerning men and women from around the globe with acne and acne scar treatment, leaving them with smooth, clear, healthy, beautiful skin that lasts. It’s important to select a provider that you trust to perform your laser skin resurfacing treatment for acne scar removal since treatment with the wrong laser type or setting can result in unwanted or undesirable cosmetic effects. Whether your acne scar removal treatment consists of sessions with Fraxel Dual laser, V-Beam, eMatrix, Clear and Brilliant, or another type of non-invasive laser resurfacing treatment, Dr. Green is your expert guide to finding the right combination of treatments for you.

Does laser hair removal help acne? Can laser hair removal help acne scars?

Laser hair removal can be a helpful solution for those who experience recurring breakouts of folliculitis. Folliculitis is a skin condition characterized by acne-like lesions that are often itchy and painful, occurring when the skin’s hair follicles become inflamed. The inflammation associated with folliculitis is typically due to an infection of the hair follicles, which ingrown hairs and shaving can cause. By undergoing laser hair removal, it may be possible to prevent future breakouts of folliculitis that can easily be confused with traditional acne vulgaris. However, treating acne scars typically requires a different laser treatment. The laser technology used for hair removal works by targeting the pigment in the hair follicle, leaving the dermal layers of the skin unaffected. Laser treatments for reducing the appearance of acne scars typically work by inducing collagen production in the treatment area. Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood offers the Gentle Lase and Gentle Yag lasers for hair removal and several skin resurfacing laser treatments for targeting acne scars. The type of laser selected depends upon the patient’s skin condition, aesthetic goals, and skin tone. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will help you determine the combination of non-invasive treatments that will eliminate your unwanted hair, active acne, or acne scars and leave you with a smooth, clear, healthy complexion that lasts.

Are there side effects to laser acne scar treatment?

Some of the most common side effects of having a laser treatment for acne scars are listed below:

• Redness
• Blisters
• Skin infection
• Swelling
• Discomfort
• Hyperpigmentation
• Hypopigmentation (white spots)
• Scarring
• Pain
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight

Does laser scar removal hurt?

Reducing the appearance of scars with laser treatment, whether on the face or body, is relatively painless with the right preparation. Dr. Green prescribes her patients a topical numbing cream that should be applied to the entire treatment area one hour before your laser treatment. Once you arrive at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, the numbing cream will be removed, and your skin will be sterilized.

How do I prepare for laser treatment?

Ahead of an appointment for acne scar or acne laser treatment, Dr. Green recommends that her patients adhere to the following guidelines:

• Avoid tanning or self-tanners for several weeks before treatment
• Refrain from smoking for at least two weeks before treatment
• Discontinue topicals that could increase skin sensitivity, such as Retin-A or Retinols, for at least one week before treatment.
• Discontinue using any medications that act as blood thinners, and stop using aspirin, vitamins, and supplements that may increase the propensity for developing bruises for at least two weeks before having a laser treatment for acne scar removal.
• Pre-treat with the medication Valtrex if you have a history of oral herpes or cold sores

Does acne laser treatment work?

Yes! Dr. Michele Green is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in NYC with the experience and expertise required to customize your laser acne scar treatment to work best for you. She will ensure that your specific skin concerns, acne, and acne scar treatment with lasers will be effective and efficient. It’s important to consult with an expert medical professional for your laser skin resurfacing treatments. Using a laser not designed for treating a specific skin tone could result in undesirable cosmetic results, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and scarring. To ensure that your treatment is performed safely and achieve the best cosmetic results, schedule your laser treatment for acne and acne scar removal with Dr. Green in New York City.

How does laser acne scar treatment work?

Laser resurfacing treatment for acne scar removal primarily works by stimulating new collagen production in the skin through the induction of the natural wound healing process. Collagen is a protein naturally found in the skin and contributes to a smooth, firm texture. By creating new collagen, laser resurfacing treatment effectively improves the skin’s texture and reduces the appearance of acne scars.

Do all laser treatments work on different skin types?

Despite significant advancements that have been made when it comes to cosmetic laser skin resurfacing technology, not all laser treatments are equally safe and effective for use on every skin type. There are many different types of lasers; not all are best for use in every skin type. Patients with skin types four or greater on the Fitzpatrick scale, with darker skin tones, have increased sensitivity to lasers, and special caution must be treating these patients. Dr. Green is an expert in treating darker skin tones, especially Asian patients, with laser treatments. Lasers that utilize radiofrequency heat, such as Thermage, eMatrix, and Vivace, are “color blind” lasers, and the epidermal layer is bypassed and protected from discoloration with these laser treatments. These types of lasers are generally safer with most skin tones and treat the deeper layers of the skin, protecting the epidermal or top layer of the skin.

Other laser skin resurfacing treatments, such as carbon dioxide or fractionated carbon dioxide lasers, must be used in lower settings with patients with darker skin types. There is no “one size fits all” treatment for acne scars. Before the advent of Fraxel and radiofrequency lasers, patients relied only on dermabrasion and CO2 laser treatments for acne scars. These procedures are extremely ablative and cannot be used on patients with darker skin tones without serious side effects.

Depending on the type of acne scar, different modalities are more appropriate. The choice of treatment really depends on all of the following: the type of scar, the severity of the damage, the skin type, and acceptable recovery time. For example, ice-pick scars require a different laser treatment from raised scars. Each type of acne scar requires a different treatment method, and this treatment always needs to be adjusted based on skin type.

Can laser treatment remove acne scars?

Having cosmetic treatment with lasers effectively diminishes the appearance of scars, including acne scars. Although it is possible to reduce acne scars to the point that they are no longer noticeable, completely removing an acne scar is impossible. The reason is that the skin tissue has been permanently damaged below the surface layer of the skin. Laser treatment for acne scars essentially works, through various mechanisms, by stimulating new collagen production in the skin. This leads to a smoother, firmer texture and an overall minimization of acne scars and other textural and tonal irregularities in complexion. When you consult with Dr. Green in New York City, she will work with you to develop a personalized laser skin resurfacing treatment plan that addresses your skin concerns and leaves you with clear, smooth, beautiful skin that lasts.

Laser treatment can significantly reduce the appearance of acne scars on the skin and effectively minimize any pain, discomfort, or itching sensation that the scar may cause. Laser treatment cannot, however, completely remove an acne scar. Laser treatments for acne scars achieve exactly what they are designed to do: diminish the scar’s appearance to make it much less noticeable. Laser treatments for acne scars work by inducing the natural wound-healing process of the skin and stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin in the treated area. When having a laser treatment for acne scars, the laser effectively replaces the acne scar with a more inconspicuous scar that is more even in tone and texture with the surrounding skin. The result is a complexion that is smooth and clear.

How much does acne scar and acne laser treatment cost?

Several factors will impact the total cost of your non-ablative laser resurfacing treatment for acne scars. One of the first considerations to determine the total cost of acne scar removal is the type of laser therapy used for treatment. Laser treatments with fractionated technology typically cost, on average, around $1,500 per treatment. Radiofrequency laser treatments are usually similar in price to fractionated laser treatments. Vascular laser treatment sessions with devices such as the VBeam laser and Intense Pulsed Light technology typically fall within the price range of $800 to $2,000, depending on the scope of the treatment area. The number of treatment sessions required to achieve the desired cosmetic results is another factor influencing the total cost of laser acne scar removal. Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to determine how many sessions a particular individual will require to get the desired results since every patient has a unique response to laser treatment. Some individuals observe phenomenal results after a single treatment session. In contrast, others may need up to five sessions of laser treatment for acne scars to get the skin texture they are after. The severity of the acne scarring can contribute to how many total treatment sessions are needed and ultimately greatly influence the final cost of treatment.

Something else to consider when determining your budget for acne scar removal is the benefit of a combination treatment approach. Dr. Green often suggests that her patients with acne scars have intermittent subcision treatment sessions with dermal fillers to break up scar tissue and restore lost volume deep within the skin. The price for a treatment session of subcision with dermal filler typically depends on the type of dermal filler used and the number of syringes used. Dr. Green frequently utilizes dermal filler products such as Restylane, Juvederm, and Sculptra to replace lost volume in tissue associated with acne scars. Since it can take a combination of several different modalities and treatments to improve the appearance of acne scars, it is crucial to consult an expert in treating acne scars, like Dr. Michele Green, to have the best cosmetic results.

Can acne scars come back after laser treatment?

Dr. Green always emphasizes to her patients the importance of treating acne breakouts before treating the appearance of acne scars to prevent the development of any new acne scars. Controlling active acne breakouts before beginning treatment for acne scars will greatly reduce the likelihood of observing any scars after laser treatment. In addition, if sufficient treatment is performed effectively, acne scars should not reappear after laser skin resurfacing treatments for acne scars. While the cosmetic results of laser treatment will depend on the scars’ severity and the skin response to the laser, the effects of laser treatment for acne scars should be permanent. As the natural aging process occurs and collagen in the skin is broken down over time, existing acne scars may once again become more noticeable. Many patients engage in maintenance treatment sessions to achieve the best results. When you work with Dr. Green in NYC for your acne scar treatments, she will help you develop a treatment plan and timeline that best suits your needs and skin condition.

How long does acne scar laser treatment take?

An acne scar laser treatment session typically takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. However, this can vary depending on the laser treatment option selected for your plan and whether treatment options are being combined. For example, many patients with textural acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation choose to undergo Vbeam and Clear + Brilliant laser treatments within the same appointment. Patients that have chosen to combine treatment modalities may require a longer appointment. Remember that Dr. Green advises patients having laser treatment for acne scars to apply a topical numbing cream to the entire treatment area one hour before their appointment to minimize potential discomfort during the procedure. Considering this preparation time, which is a step that should be completed before arrival at the office, the total time required is generally about an hour and a half. Additionally, the total number of treatment sessions that are required to produce the desired cosmetic results may impact the amount of time needed to achieve final results. Some contributing factors include the severity of the acne scarring and the type of laser being performed. Many patients can achieve the results that they are looking for after having between three and five laser treatments for acne scars. The process of completely improving the appearance of acne scars can take up to two years, and expectations should be practicable when planning your treatment with laser for acne scars.

How to choose the best acne scar removal treatment for you?

The world of cosmetic dermatology is constantly evolving. With so many different treatment modalities available for reducing the appearance of acne scars, it may feel overwhelming to try and determine which are best suited to you and your unique skin condition. When treating acne scars, it is critical to consult an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, in New York City. Working with an expert to treat acne scars helps prevent encountering unwanted potential side effects and guarantees optimal cosmetic results. Dr. Green has the expertise required to select the acne scar treatment options that will safely and effectively minimize the appearance of your acne scars with long-lasting results.

Dr. Green has been practicing cosmetic dermatology artfully and skillfully in New York City for over two and a half decades, is board certified by the American Academy of Dermatology, and is an acne and acne scars treatment expert. If you are struggling with the appearance of acne scars and are in the process of selecting a healthcare provider for the cosmetic treatment of your acne scars, take some time to research each physician you may consult with. View the gallery of before and after acne scar treatment photos to gauge your expectations and become familiar with what kind of results a provider can deliver. There are many acne scar laser treatments, including YAG lasers, Pulse Dye Laser, Fraxel, and Erbium lasers. Consulting with an expert like Dr. Green is ultimately the best way to learn which acne scar removal method would be ideal for treating your acne scars.

Is acne scar and acne laser treatment worth it?

Acne laser treatment can be an excellent complementary treatment option for those struggling with breakouts. Often, it is recommended to engage with other treatment modalities, such as topical treatments or oral medication, simultaneously to attain optimal results. In addition, for the many patients who have struggled with acne breakouts, diminishing the appearance of their acne scars with laser treatment is absolutely worth it. The appearance of breakouts and acne scars can significantly contribute to feelings of self-consciousness and low self-esteem. Having laser treatment for acne breakouts and scars is an investment in self-care that many patients deem incredibly valuable, as it restores their confidence and helps them look and feel their best. Something to keep in mind is that each individual patient may respond to acne scar laser treatment in a unique way. Since no patient develops acne scars in the same way and no two acne scars are identical to each other, the total number of laser treatments necessary to completely diminish the appearance of the acne scars will vary from person to person. When you consult with Dr. Green for your laser treatments, she will work with you to develop a personalized plan that best suits your specific concerns and goals.

How do I get started with acne scar and acne laser treatment?

While acne breakouts and acne scars are common skin conditions, their appearance can lead to feelings of self-consciousness and low self-esteem for many. It is possible, however, to permanently eliminate pimples and significantly reduce the appearance of acne scars when you work with an expert, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City. Dr. Green has a special interest in treating patients with acne and acne scars, taking great pride in the relationships she develops with her patients and devoting the time required to thoroughly understand the specific concerns and goals of those seeking treatment for their breakouts and acne scars. At her private dermatology office in NYC, she offers many non-invasive treatment options, including various forms of light therapy and laser technologies, for reducing acne breakouts and scars.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience offering non-invasive treatment options for active breakouts and acne scars in her boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, and New York Magazine consistently identify Dr. Green as one of New York’s best physicians for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Utilizing the most cutting-edge skin resurfacing laser treatments and innovative techniques, Dr. Green also provides her patients with superlative medical advice and recommends the best in specially formulated skincare products to give her patients the best all-around care. When you choose to work with Dr. Green to eliminate your active acne or acne scars, she will help you design a customized treatment approach that is catered to your unique skin condition and delivers optimal results. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green, call 212-535-3088 or contact us online today to start your journey to achieving a clear, smooth, beautiful complexion that lasts.