Image source: clearskincareclinics.com.au

How Men Can Reduce the Visibility of Acne Scarring through Laser Therapy

Dealing with the breakouts that accompany acne can be challenging enough. The scars that follow can cause even more frustration for men who are tired of dealing with recurrent skin issues. Generally speaking, there are two categories of acne scarring; hypertrophic and atopic. While there are over-the-counter products designed to address scars, they may not be able to offer a vast improvement in the visibility of the scars.

Laser resurfacing procedures can allow men to see an improvement in the texture and overall aesthetics of skin that has been damaged by acne.

An understanding of laser resurfacing

Image source: timesnow.com

This is a non-invasive procedure that is designed to help boost both the tone and the texture of the skin. According to the information found at ManCaveSydney, laser therapy works by using high-intensity visible light pulses to remove layers of damaged skin slowly.

There are two considerations prior to undergoing laser resurfacing, including the depth of skin that is being addressed and the method that is being used to resurface the skin. During your consultation, the extent of the scarring damage will be evaluated so that a treatment plan can be devised. 

How does laser treatment reduces the appearance of scars?

Image source: tiege.com

Laser treatment removes the outermost layers of the skin, which will work to minimize the visibility of scars. The light pulses created by the laser generate heat that will target the scars without resulting in damage to the surrounding tissue. The treatment will also stimulate the body’s natural collagen and elastin fiber, which will then encourage the natural healing process.

What to expect after treatment?

While this is a non-invasive procedure, there are some minor side-effects from the treatment to be aware of.

After treatment, you are likely to see some minor swelling and inflammation, but it should pass within 48 hours. There may be some itching in the treated area, but it should pass within 72 hours of treatment. You may see the skin peeling for up to a week, but this is a very normal part of the body’s natural healing process.

The area of treatment can have an impact on healing time. Generally speaking, however, it should take between 10 and 21 days for the process to complete. Once the treated area has been allowed to heal completely, there are some steps that you can take to continue to see an improvement in your skin.

Avoid exposing your skin to the sun as much as is possible, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen product if you will be going outdoors. Be sure to use a moisturizer that has been tailored to meet the needs of your skin type. Despite what some may think, acne-prone scarring can quickly dry out. This can lead to additional inflammation and scarring if not addressed.

Who is the ideal candidate for the procedure?

Image source: medicalnewstoday.com

Laser treatments are not the right choice for every person with acne scarring. There are some considerations to determine whether you’ll be a good candidate for treatment, including the following.

  • Active acne flare-ups may need to be cleared up prior to undergoing treatment for scars.
  • Taking certain types of acne medication can disqualify you from treatment.
  • Having an autoimmune disease may also be an area of concern.
  • Having a really dark complexion and being prone to keloids.

It may be necessary for you to undergo multiple treatments in order to see the results that you are hoping for. Be sure, to be honest about your aesthetic goals so that your treating doctor can understand what your treatment steps should be.