Laser Skin Resurfacing for Acne Scars By William P. Baugh on June 30, 2019

Smooth, healthy-looking skin plays an important role in your appearance. Unfortunately, skin problems such as acne can result in permanent hyperpigmentation or indented scars.

At Full Spectrum Dermatology in Fullerton, CA, Dr. William Baugh can perform laser skin resurfacing to make your skin look smoother a more even-toned. In this blog post, we discuss how laser skin resurfacing for acne scars can improve the appearance of your skin.

Acne and Hyperpigmentation

Any patient that has had a pimple knows that the skin can remain discolored for months or years after the pimple has healed. This type of scarring is known as hyperpigmentation.

Although patients can try lightening products on dark spots, these treatments are not as effective as the professional skin procedures offered by a dermatologist.

Acne and Indented Scars

For patients that have acne, indented scars tend to be a problem. Unfortunately, the only way to treat these indentations in the facial skin is with professional dermatological treatment.

The Laser Skin Resurfacing Procedure

Although there are several procedures that can be performed to address acne scars, laser skin resurfacing is an excellent solution for both hyperpigmentation and pitted acne scars.

Before performing the laser skin resurfacing procedure at our Fullerton practice, Dr. Baugh will apply local anesthetic to the treatment area to keep you more comfortable. Next, he will use an erbium laser to gently remove damaged layers of skin. Cooling technology is applied to the skin immediately after the laser application to further improve your comfort.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Results

The skin may look red and inflamed for a week or two after the laser skin resurfacing procedure. During this time, patients should apply a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer to the skin to keep it hydrated. Avoid the sun as much as possible, and wear sunscreen to protect your skin from any sunlight that enters through your home or car’s windows.

As the skin heals, it begins to appear softer and smoother. Depending on the degree of hyperpigmentation, you may see that it has been eliminated completely or greatly minimized.

You will also see an improvement in any indented acne scars. Although laser skin resurfacing may not smooth pitted acne scars completely, it can make them less noticeable.

Preventing Skin Damage

After undergoing laser skin resurfacing, have a good skin care routine in place to prolong the results of treatment. If you still have acne problems, talk to Dr. Baugh about topical treatments, oral medications, and skin care products you can use to reduce acne.

It is also critical to protect your skin from the sun to prevent new dark spots or sun damage. Wear sunscreen every day and reapply several times a day to keep your skin looking youthful.

In addition, wash your face twice a day, being sure to thoroughly remove your make-up at the end of each day. Use a good quality moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated, and consider investing in an eye cream.