Laser scar removal or laser treatment for scars is used to reduce the appearance of scar tissue. The procedure uses focused light therapy to either stimulate the production of new cells on your skin or remove the outer layer of the skin to cover the damaged skin cells.
The laser acne scar removal also reduces the appearance of skin wrinkles, warts, scars, age spots, and keloids. It will, however, not altogether remove the scars.
Is Laser Scar Removal Safe?
The procedure will require the doctor to first numb your skin using a topical anesthetic, or sedate you if needed.
Laser scar removal is an outpatient procedure but must only be performed by a board-certified dermatologist.
There will be some considerable downtime after the procedure, but it’s not as long as you would expect; in most cases, it ranges between 3 and 10 days.
Laser Acne Scar Removal Cost
The laser treatment for scars ranges between $200 and $3,400, depending on the dermatologist, the extent of the treatment, and the size of the scar.
Now, although not all the scars will be removed, studies have shown that laser scar removal before and after effectively shows a minimized spot and causes your skin to appear thick.
What Does Laser Scar Removal Entail?
Laser treatment for scars makes use of focused beams of light to treat the damaged areas of your body. It can work on growths and tumors, plus it is also effective in stopping hair loss, improving vision, and treating pain.
Laser therapy improves the appearance of:
- Burn marks
- Injury scars
- Dark spots
- Age spots
- Acne scars
Because light is involved in the process, the doctor may not recommend it if you are sensitive to light, and specific medications can cause an adverse reaction, which is why you need to first speak with your general doctor before you can go through this treatment.
The doctor is likely to discourage this treatment if you happen to suffer from the following conditions:
- Skin sores
- Active acne
- Dark skin
Are there side effects to laser scar removal?
Yes. This procedure uses light, and heat will be used to treat the damaged skin cells. As a result, you are likely to experience the following;
- Swelling
- Scarring
- Redness
- Itching
- Bleeding
- Pain
These are, however, mild effects that should improve in a few days. If you develop an infection, please see your doctor immediately.
Recovery from Laser Scar Removal
After the treatment, recovery time will vary from one person to another. Usually, your skin will start to heal between 3 and 10 days, but immediately after the treatment;
- Avoid any direct sunlight on your skin for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Apply a moist cloth or cold pack on the area to reduce swelling.
- Use some over-the-counter medication if need be.
- Wash daily and apply some moisturizer.
- Avoid makeup for the next couple of days if you have a facial procedure.
