Acne Laser Treatment NYC

Active acne breakouts and facial scars can negatively impact self-confidence and self-esteem. Each year, up to 50 million Americans are affected by acne, and one in five individuals with breakouts is estimated to develop scars. Fortunately, advances in cosmetic dermatology have introduced laser treatments that use various forms of light or energy to eliminate acne lesions and reduce the appearance of scars. With numerous laser treatment options available, choosing the best options for your specific skin condition can feel overwhelming. With the assistance of expert NYC board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, it is possible to eliminate acne and scars, achieving a smooth, healthy, and radiant complexion.

Laser acne treatments can effectively address active acne lesions and scars in patients of all skin types and tones. These treatments provide safe, long-lasting results with minimal to no downtime or side effects. For optimal cosmetic outcomes, it’s advisable to treat active acne lesions first to prevent further scarring. The Acleara, Photodynamic therapy, and VBeam lasers are excellent options for reducing acne-causing bacteria and oil production, helping clear breakouts. Subsequently, lasers such as Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant, eMatrix, or VBeam can be used to address any remaining acne scars. Dr. Green often employs a combination approach to treating acne and scars, assessing your skin to create a personalized plan and selecting the most effective laser treatments to ensure you achieve clear, radiant skin that lasts.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally recognized, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing cutting-edge, non-invasive laser treatments for acne and acne scarring to some of the world’s most discerning individuals. As an expert cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Green uses the latest modalities to treat acne scars and breakouts, including VBeam, Fraxel, and eMatrix. She is consistently recognized by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors as one of New York’s top dermatologists for her commitment to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green to address breakouts and reduce the appearance of acne scars, she will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique skin condition, aesthetic goals, and skin type.

What is acne? What causes it?

Acne vulgaris, commonly called acne, is a skin condition that occurs when the oil glands in the skin’s pores become clogged with dead skin cells, excess sebum, and other debris. Sebum is a natural oil that helps keep the skin soft and moisturized. When excess sebum is produced, it can become trapped in the oil glands along with debris and bacteria, leading to inflammation, redness, and pain. Acne is common during adolescence but can develop at any stage of life. It commonly appears on the forehead, chin, nose, upper back, and shoulders, though it can occur wherever oil glands are present. Factors such as genetics, overactive oil glands, bacterial infections, hormones, diet, stress, and certain medications can trigger pimples. If left untreated or poorly managed, acne can lead to permanent scarring or hyperpigmentation. If you are experiencing active acne breakouts, it is vital to consult a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green as soon as possible to address the acne before any scars develop.

Will laser treatment help with acne?

Laser and light therapies have proven effective for acne by targeting its root causes. These therapies use specific wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin to eliminate acne-causing bacteria, significantly reducing the frequency and severity of breakouts. They also help minimize acne-related inflammation, promoting a clearer complexion. One notable example is the Fraxel Dual Laser, which not only addresses active acne but also improves the appearance of acne scars. This laser treatment stimulates collagen production in the skin, supporting healing and improving skin texture over time. By combining antibacterial effects with collagen stimulation, laser and light therapies offer a comprehensive approach to acne management and scar improvement, making them valuable options for those seeking clearer, healthier skin.

How does laser acne treatment work?

Laser treatments can address active acne by inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface or by reducing sebaceous gland activity. Two effective treatments for acne include photodynamic therapy and the Vbeam laser. The most suitable laser treatment for your acne depends on the type and severity of your condition, as well as your skin type. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private NYC dermatology office, she will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan to clear your acne breakouts.

3 eMatrix treatments and 3 vbeam laser treatments

Which laser treatment is good for acne?

There are various laser treatments designed to address acne and acne scarring, each with unique benefits and suitability for different skin types. Common treatments include fractional laser therapy, pulsed-dye laser therapy, and blue light therapy. Effectiveness varies by individual skin conditions, acne type, and overall skin sensitivity. Determining the best laser treatment for your needs requires a thorough evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist. They will assess your skin type, the severity of your acne or scarring, and any other underlying concerns to recommend the most appropriate option. Consulting a specialist ensures personalized care and increases the likelihood of achieving the desired results while minimizing potential side effects.

Types of laser treatment options available for acne

Acleara laser for acne

The Acleara laser is a new cosmetic procedure that uses intense pulsed light (IPL) and vacuum technology to address acne breakouts. The filtered broadband light eliminates acne-causing bacteria and reduces oil production on the skin’s surface. At the same time, the vacuum removes buildup of dead skin cells, bacteria, debris, and excess oils from the pores. Furthermore, Acleara’s light technology helps decrease inflammation and redness. Treatment with the Acleara laser is not painful and requires no downtime. Although the Acleara laser is excellent for treating mild to moderate acne lesions, it is costly and not a permanent solution, requiring multiple treatments to achieve and sustain optimal results.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) acne laser treatment

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive treatment for conditions such as active acne, skin cancer, precancerous lesions, psoriasis, and age-related macular degeneration. PDT effectively treats acne by reducing the size of sebaceous glands, limiting sebum production, and eliminating acne-causing bacteria. The process has two parts: first, a topical photosensitizer sensitive to a specific wavelength of light is applied to the treatment area. In the second part, the targeted wavelength of light activates the photosensitizer at the treatment site. Once activated by light, the photosensitizer generates oxygen radicals that destroy the cells that have absorbed it. Light sources for PDT include lasers, intense pulsed light, blue light, red light, and visible light, such as natural sunlight. It is recommended to avoid direct sunlight or other direct light in the treatment area for 24 to 72 hours after your Photodynamic Therapy procedure. Typically, a series of three to five Photodynamic Therapy treatments is conducted at four-week intervals. Dr. Green will determine the number of sessions needed during your consultation, based on the severity of your condition, such as acne.

Vbeam Laser acne treatment

The Vbeam laser is clinically proven to treat inflammatory acne lesions and reduce the appearance of acne scars. This laser operates at 595 nm, effectively killing acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and eliminating red pigment from the skin. Additionally, it can target various skin conditions, including rosacea, stretch marks, broken capillaries, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a form of skin discoloration often left after acne lesions heal. Most patients require 4 to 6 Vbeam laser treatments, spaced 4 weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. The Vbeam laser features a patented Dynamic Cooling Device that delivers a burst of cool air before each laser pulse, enhancing patient comfort during the procedure. Moreover, the treatment involves no downtime, making it easy for patients to schedule their sessions.

What are the side effects of laser acne treatment?

The side effects of acne laser treatment can vary depending on the type of laser used. Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling, and tenderness at the treatment site. These side effects are generally mild and resolve on their own shortly after treatment. Some patients with a history of cold sores may experience a breakout after treatment, as skin trauma can trigger a flare-up. If you have a history of Herpes Simplex Virus, Dr. Green will prescribe a prophylactic dose of Valtrex to help prevent an outbreak. After the procedure, the treatment area may be more sensitive to light, so it’s crucial to protect it from sun exposure to achieve and maintain optimal results while guarding against UV damage. When undergoing laser treatment with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, you will receive all the essential aftercare information needed to ensure the best results.

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 chemical peels or topicals that could increase skin sensitivity, such as Retin-A or Retinols, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, for at least one week before treatment.
• Pre-treat with Valtrex if you have a history of oral herpes or cold sores.

What to do after acne laser treatment?

Recovery time after acne laser treatment varies by the type of laser used. Patients may experience mild redness, swelling, and tenderness during this period, but these symptoms typically resolve within a few days. To prevent further irritation, patients should avoid exfoliating products and apply generous amounts of moisturizer and sunscreen. After Photodynamic Therapy, patients are advised to avoid direct sunlight and other light sources for 1 to 3 days to prevent reactivation of the photosensitizing drug. The Vbeam laser requires no downtime, allowing patients to resume daily activities immediately after the procedure. Before your acne laser treatment, Dr. Green will review potential side effects and aftercare instructions to ensure you are well-informed and prepared.

Will laser treatment remove acne scars?

There are various types of acne scars, including atrophic scars (boxcar, rolling, and icepick) and hypertrophic scars (keloids). Treating atrophic scars involves minimizing scar depth and improving skin texture. Laser treatment stimulates collagen and healthy skin cell production, which are essential for replacing scar tissue and enhancing overall skin rejuvenation. Atrophic acne scars can be treated with laser therapy, subcision with dermal fillers, or microneedling, which stimulates collagen production and improves skin texture.

Which laser treatment is best for active acne?

When treating active acne, Pulsed Dye Lasers (PDL) can be an effective option for reducing redness and targeting harmful bacteria that cause breakouts. One of the most commonly used PDLs is the VBeam laser, known for its gentle approach and minimal downtime. This laser not only mitigates persistent acne-related redness but also effectively addresses underlying inflammation and bacterial presence in the skin. By using specific wavelengths of light, the VBeam laser selectively targets and eliminates blood vessels that contribute to redness, promoting a clearer, more even complexion. Overall, PDL treatments such as the VBeam provide a safe and effective solution for individuals with active acne, enhancing both skin appearance and health.

Acne Scar Laser Treatments

Fraxel – Fractional Non-ablative Laser Treatment

The Fraxel laser is widely regarded as the gold standard for fractionated laser resurfacing. Dr. Green often calls it the ‘magic eraser’ for its ability to target a range of skin conditions. The Fraxel laser treatment uses two distinct wavelengths: 1927 nm targets sunspots, hyperpigmentation, and other discoloration, while 1550 nm smooths skin texture, reduces fine lines, and helps eliminate acne scars. As a non-ablative, fractionated laser, Fraxel creates microscopic laser columns that penetrate deep into the skin, leaving the top layer intact and preserving the surrounding skin. The energy stimulates collagen production in the dermis, resulting in smoother skin texture. Most patients require three to five Fraxel laser treatment sessions, spaced about one month apart, to achieve optimal results in reducing acne scars. After treatment, patients will experience redness and mild swelling, which typically resolve within 48 hours. It is crucial to use proper sun protection after treatment, including a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50, and to minimize sun exposure, as the Fraxel laser increases the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight.

eMatrix Laser – Non-ablative Laser Treatment

The eMatrix laser is a non-ablative resurfacing treatment that uses bipolar radiofrequency energy to heat the skin beneath the surface, stimulating collagen production, reducing acne scars, and generating younger, healthier-looking skin cells. The eMatrix laser delivers heat directly to the deeper dermis while sparing the upper skin layer, leaving it unharmed. This approach enables accelerated healing, minimal downtime, and a lower risk of adverse effects typically associated with more ablative lasers, such as scarring or hyperpigmentation. The eMatrix laser is safe and effective for all skin types and is regarded as the gold standard for treating acne scars in Asian patients and individuals with darker skin tones. A series of four to six monthly eMatrix treatments is generally necessary to achieve optimal cosmetic results. Common side effects from eMatrix laser treatment include mild redness and peeling, which typically resolve on their own within 48 hours after the procedure. In the months following eMatrix treatment, collagen production continues to improve the skin, diminishing the appearance of depressed acne scars.

Clear and Brilliant Laser

The Clear and Brilliant laser, also known as the “mini-Fraxel,” is an excellent option for patients seeking skin rejuvenation from The Clear and Brilliant laser, also known as the “mini-Fraxel,” is an excellent option for patients seeking skin rejuvenation with fractionated laser treatment and no downtime. This gentle fractional laser technology targets specific areas of the face, producing smooth, even results without redness or downtime. It can improve skin texture in acne scars and reduce uneven skin tone caused by sun damage or hyperpigmentation with only 5 to 6 sessions, spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart. Dr. Green uses the Clear and Brilliant laser with the Permea handpiece, which is specifically designed to address sun damage, pigmentation, and melasma. Patients with deeper acne scars may benefit from additional laser treatments, such as Fraxel or eMatrix, which can penetrate the dermis. Sunblock and topical Vitamin C are recommended after laser treatment to maximize cosmetic results.

Vbeam Laser

The Vbeam® laser is considered the “gold standard” for treating facial redness, broken blood vessels, and rosacea. This pulsed dye laser delivers concentrated light energy directly to the target area without damaging surrounding tissue. Ideally, treatments are scheduled monthly for 4 to 5 sessions to reduce acne-related redness and acne scars significantly. The Vbeam laser is particularly effective for treating keloids and other raised scars. By targeting the vascular components of raised scars, the laser can diminish both the color and size of keloids. There is no downtime with Vbeam laser treatment, which can be completed in just 15 minutes during your lunch break. Additionally, the laser features a patented Dynamic Cooling Device that releases a burst of cool air before each pulse, enhancing patient comfort throughout the treatment. The Vbeam is also highly effective in treating hemangiomas, leg veins, stretch marks, angiomas, inflammatory acne lesions, and surgical scars.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, also known as a photo facial, is used to improve skin redness, pigmentation, and texture. Unlike lasers that use a single wavelength, IPL uses multiple wavelengths of pulsed light to target various skin conditions simultaneously. It effectively addresses redness, hyperpigmentation, and discoloration from acne scars while stimulating collagen production for smoother skin. Photopneumatic therapy is a unique treatment that combines IPL with suction vacuum technology to treat active acne. The light therapy aspect of IPL destroys acne-causing bacteria, while the suction component removes debris, sebum, and dead skin cells from the pores.

Acne Scar Treatments that Complement Lasers

Subcision with Dermal Fillers

Subcision with dermal fillers effectively treats atrophic acne scars by breaking down scar tissue and restoring lost volume. During the procedure, a needle disrupts the scar tissue responsible for the depressed acne scars. When subcision is performed with dermal fillers, the filler is injected directly into the indented acne scar to provide a smoother skin surface immediately. Dr. Green often performs subcision using Sculptra or hyaluronic acid dermal fillers to achieve optimal cosmetic results with no downtime. Dr. Green’s unique subcision and injection technique can enhance the appearance of scars even after just one treatment.

Sculptra is a specialized dermal filler composed of poly-L-lactic acid, which stimulates collagen production. As collagen forms over time, skin texture improves, reducing the visibility of depressed acne scars. Patients typically require three Sculptra treatment sessions to achieve optimal results, with results lasting up to two years. Many patients also undergo regular follow-up treatments to maintain those results. Dermal fillers like Juvederm and Restylane contain hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the skin that supports hydration and a youthful appearance. These fillers are often used to restore volume lost to acne scarring and enhance skin smoothness. The effects of hyaluronic acid fillers are immediate and can last between six and twelve months.

Microneedling

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, serves as an alternative to Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is an alternative to laser treatment for acne scarring. This technique creates micro-channels in the skin, triggering the body’s wound-healing response to generate new collagen. Microneedling refines the skin, reducing the visibility of acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles while improving skin tone and texture. It also enhances the penetration of topical products and is often combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to improve results. PRP contains growth factors and proteins that accelerate healing, support tissue repair, and boost collagen synthesis. Because PRP is derived from a patient’s blood sample, it is completely natural and maximizes the aesthetic benefits of microneedling, effectively diminishing acne scars and promoting healthy, glowing skin.

Vivace microneedling

Vivace microneedling is a non-invasive treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy. Microneedling uses a handheld device with tiny, sterile needles applied to the skin’s surface. As the device is passed along the skin, it creates microchannels that jump-start the body’s natural healing process and increase collagen synthesis. At the same time, Vivace delivers radiofrequency energy, which is converted into heat to stimulate collagen synthesis further. Vivace is an excellent acne scar treatment option because microneedling stimulates collagen production in the epidermis, while radiofrequency energy simultaneously stimulates collagen production in the dermis, maximizing cosmetic results. By replenishing collagen in the treated area, Vivace can improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of acne scars. The exact number of treatments an individual needs depends on their specific needs and goals. For optimal results, Dr. Green recommends at least 3 Vivace treatments, spaced 4 weeks apart. Some patients experience mild redness in the treatment area, which typically resolves within 24 hours of their Vivace treatment.

Which laser treatment is good for acne scars?

For treating acne scars, the Fraxel Dual laser, set to a 1550-nanometer wavelength, is highly effective at stimulating collagen production. This process helps rejuvenate the skin by promoting the growth of new, healthy tissue that gradually fills in and smooths out the indentations left by scars. The laser targets deeper layers of the skin while preserving surrounding tissue, resulting in minimal downtime. Patients often notice improvements in skin texture and tone after a series of treatments, making it a popular choice for those seeking to diminish the appearance of acne scars. When dealing with acne scars, consult a board-certified dermatologist to determine the most appropriate laser treatment.

What are the side effects of laser treatment for acne scars?

Common side effects of laser treatment for acne scars include mild redness, swelling, and discomfort. These effects typically resolve on their own within 48 hours after treatment, depending on the specific laser used. After the procedure, the skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight, so it is essential to use sunscreen and limit sun exposure to prevent hyperpigmentation and further redness. Other possible side effects include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation (white spots), skin infections, and scarring. The risk of adverse side effects is lower when seeking laser treatment from an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional with expertise in laser procedures rather than an inexperienced or unqualified provider at a medical spa to ensure safety, efficacy, and optimal results for skin rejuvenation. Non-ablative laser treatments, which Dr. Green offers at her private boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, involve fewer potential side effects and significantly less downtime.

Why consult with a dermatologist for acne treatment?

Consulting a board-certified dermatologist should be the first step for patients with any form of acne, whether mild, moderate, or severe. Rapid, effective treatment of breakouts is crucial to prevent acne scars, which are often more challenging to treat than the initial breakout. If you have a family history of acne, are experiencing inflammatory acne that is starting to cause scars, or have persistent acne that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments, you should seek the expertise of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green. Depending on the underlying cause and type of acne, potential treatments may include oral antibiotics, topical antibiotics and retinoids, Accutane, chemical peels, laser treatments, and HydraFacial. If you have tried various topical and oral medications but are still dealing with active breakouts or scarring, Dr. Green may recommend Accutane therapy. Accutane is recognized as the gold standard for treating resistant acne and preventing scars and hyperpigmentation. Once your active acne is fully resolved, you can begin addressing your acne scars. It’s important to note that Isotretinoin therapy may delay your laser treatments for acne scarring by six months. Once your breakouts are under control, Dr. Green can develop a personalized treatment plan for your acne scars to help you achieve clear, radiant skin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Acne and Acne Scar Laser Treatment

Is laser treatment for acne effective?

Yes! Laser treatment has been clinically proven to reduce active acne, and various laser technologies are suitable for patients with different skin tones and types. Acne laser treatments, such as Vbeam and photodynamic therapy, have been shown to reduce acne lesions by up to 90% in a treatment area, with long-lasting results. An expert board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, has the experience to recommend the laser treatments best suited to your skin type and specific skin condition, helping you avoid unwanted side effects and achieve optimal rejuvenation results.

At what age can you get laser acne treatment?

Acne laser treatments are most effective when administered under the careful guidance of a board-certified dermatologist. These experts have the training and experience to evaluate individual skin types and acne severity, enabling them to tailor treatment plans to each patient. Among the available options, non-ablative lasers and LED light therapy stand out as excellent choices, particularly for adolescents 13 and older. These therapies can be particularly beneficial for those whose acne persists despite conventional treatments, such as topical therapies and oral medications. Non-ablative lasers target the skin’s underlying layers without damaging the surface, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. LED light devices use specific wavelengths to target acne-causing bacteria and improve skin texture. It is best to consult a board-certified dermatologist to ensure the safety of a laser treatment for your specific skin type and tone.

Why do I have acne after laser treatment?

Laser treatments are a powerful solution for managing acne, effectively targeting inflammation and destroying the bacteria that contribute to breakouts. These advanced procedures deliver focused light energy into the skin, helping calm red, swollen blemishes and promoting the regeneration of healthy skin cells, ultimately improving overall skin texture and appearance. If you notice an increase in acne or any swelling or blistering after your treatment, it is wise to consult a board-certified dermatologist. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options to ensure your skin remains healthy and clear following the procedure.

Which laser treatment is best for deep acne scars?

Acne breakouts are not identical, nor are the scars they leave. The best laser for eliminating your acne scars ultimately depends on your scar and skin type. Lasers such as Fraxel are not safe for all skin types and, when used incorrectly, can cause hyperpigmentation and scarring. The most effective way to determine which laser resurfacing treatment is best for your acne scars is to consult a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience providing discerning men and women worldwide with treatments for acne and acne scars, resulting in smooth, clear, healthy, beautiful skin that lasts. It’s essential to choose a provider you trust for your laser skin resurfacing treatment for acne scar removal, as using the wrong laser type or settings can lead to unwanted cosmetic effects. Whether your acne scar removal treatment involves sessions with Fraxel Dual laser, V-Beam, eMatrix, Clear and Brilliant, or another non-invasive laser resurfacing treatment, Dr. Green is your expert guide to finding the right combination of treatments for you.

Can laser treatment cure acne?

Regarding the efficacy of laser treatments for acne, it is important to note that while these therapies can lead to significant improvements and help manage active acne by targeting bacteria and reducing inflammation, they do not offer a definitive cure. Instead, they are most effective when integrated into a comprehensive skincare plan that may include topical treatments, oral medications, and cosmetic procedures. This multifaceted approach aims to achieve the best possible long-term outcomes in acne management.

How many sessions of laser acne treatment are needed?

Typically, multiple laser treatment sessions are needed to address acne lesions. Depending on the laser type and the severity and nature of the acne, three to six sessions may be required. While laser treatments can yield long-lasting results, some patients may need follow-up sessions to maintain clear skin. Sessions are typically scheduled four weeks apart to allow the skin sufficient time to heal between treatments.

Will laser treatment permanently get rid of acne?

Acne laser treatments can provide long-lasting results, and for some, the results may be permanent; however, others may need annual maintenance sessions to keep the skin consistently clear. Certain light therapies and laser treatments effectively target active acne breakouts. Blue light and red light therapies are FDA-approved for treating acne. However, visible-light treatments are ineffective for acne cysts, blackheads, whiteheads, and nodules. Photodynamic therapy is a viable option for moderate to severe acne. During your consultation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, she will gather a comprehensive medical history, including any family history of acne, review your skincare routine, and discuss any previous acne treatments you’ve undergone. Blood tests may be requested to identify underlying factors contributing to your breakouts. Dr. Green will collaborate with you to create a personalized acne treatment plan that includes effective laser therapies to help prevent acne scars and achieve a smooth, clear, and lasting healthy complexion.

Will lasers improve acne scars?

Yes, Dr. Green uses multiple lasers to improve the appearance of acne scars. Laser resurfacing for acne scar removal primarily works by stimulating new collagen production in the skin through the natural wound-healing process. Collagen, a protein naturally found in the skin, contributes to a smooth, firm texture. By stimulating collagen production, laser resurfacing effectively improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of acne scars.

Can a CO2 laser remove acne scars?

Ablative skin resurfacing laser treatments, including carbon dioxide (CO2) and erbium YAG lasers, remove the entire outer layer of skin in the treatment area. This removes the damaged outer layer, revealing fresh, healthy skin beneath. At the same time, the laser heats the underlying dermal layer, stimulating new collagen production in the treated area. CO2 lasers promote collagen remodeling, improve skin tone and texture, and tighten the skin, making them commonly used for treating deeper lines and wrinkles. This laser treatment is more aggressive than non-ablative lasers, such as the Fraxel laser, and requires significantly more downtime. In contrast, non-ablative skin resurfacing lasers, such as Fraxel, create precise, controlled micro-injuries in the targeted area while leaving the surrounding skin untouched, unlike ablative lasers, which remove the top layer of skin. Consequently, CO2 laser treatments and other ablative skin resurfacing lasers typically require more downtime than non-ablative options like Fraxel, which is why many patients prefer Fraxel over CO2.

Is acne scar and acne laser treatment worth it?

Yes! Acne laser treatment can be an excellent complementary option for those dealing with breakouts. It is often recommended to use additional treatment modalities, such as topical agents or oral medications, in combination with laser treatment to achieve optimal results. Furthermore, for many patients who have faced acne breakouts, reducing the appearance of their acne scars with laser treatment is definitely worthwhile. The visibility of breakouts and acne scars can significantly impact feelings of self-consciousness and low self-esteem. Undergoing laser treatment for acne breakouts and scars is an investment in self-care that many patients find extremely valuable, as it helps restore their confidence and allows them to look and feel their best. When you consult with Dr. Green for your laser treatments, she will collaborate with you to create a personalized plan that addresses your specific concerns and goals.

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

While acne breakouts and scars are common skin conditions, they can lead to self-consciousness and low self-esteem for many. However, laser treatments can permanently eliminate breakouts and significantly reduce the appearance of acne scars. These treatments use various light and energy modalities to address breakouts and scars with little to no downtime or side effects. At her private dermatology office in NYC, Dr. Green offers numerous non-invasive options, including Fraxel, eMatrix, Vbeam, and Photodynamic therapy, to promote healthy, radiant, and clear skin. As an expert in cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Green partners with you to create a customized treatment plan for acne and acne scars that targets your skin concerns, delivering a healthy, smooth, clear, and beautiful complexion that endures.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally recognized, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing non-invasive treatments for active breakouts and acne scars at her boutique office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, and New York Magazine consistently list Dr. Green as one of New York’s top physicians due to her commitment to patients and expertise. By employing the latest laser treatments and innovative skin resurfacing techniques, Dr. Green provides her patients with exceptional medical advice and recommends specially formulated skincare products for comprehensive care. When you choose to collaborate with Dr. Green on your active acne or scars, she will help you craft a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique skin condition for optimal results. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green, call 212-535-3088 or contact us online today to commence your journey toward achieving a clear, smooth, and beautiful complexion that lasts.