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Acne and Scarring

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED TO SERVE Newport Beach, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Fountain Valley, Aliso Viejo and Laguna Niguel

Close-up of a woman's neck showing visible platysmal bands before treatment.

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting people of all ages. While breakouts can be frustrating on their own, scarring often lingers long after the acne clears, impacting skin texture and overall confidence. Fortunately, advanced dermatological treatments can significantly reduce acne scars and restore smoother, healthier skin.

At Metropolis Dermatology in Costa Mesa, CA, we offer PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) RF Microneedling, two cutting-edge solutions designed to stimulate collagen production, smooth skin texture, and reduce acne scars effectively.

What Is Acne and Scarring?

Acne occurs when pores become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, leading to inflammation. When breakouts penetrate deep into the skin, they can damage tissue and leave scars as the skin attempts to heal. Scarring may appear as pitted depressions, raised scars, or uneven pigmentation.

 

Causes

  • Excess Oil Production: Overactive sebaceous glands clog pores, leading to breakouts.
  • Bacterial Infection: Propionibacterium acnes bacteria can worsen inflammation.
  • Hormonal Fluctuations: Puberty, pregnancy, and hormonal imbalances can trigger acne.
  • Inflammation: More severe acne, such as cysts and nodules, increases the risk of scarring.
  • Genetics: A family history of acne can make some individuals more prone to breakouts and scarring.

 

Symptoms

  • Whiteheads & Blackheads: Clogged pores that appear as small bumps.
  • Papules & Pustules: Inflamed red pimples, sometimes filled with pus.
  • Cysts & Nodules: Deep, painful lesions beneath the skin.
  • Depressed or Raised Scars: Acne scars that leave an uneven skin surface.

 

PRP and RF Microneedling for Acne Scarring

At Metropolis Dermatology in Costa Mesa, we specialize in PRP and RF Microneedling, two minimally invasive procedures that help reduce acne scars by stimulating the skin’s natural healing process.

 

How They Work

  • Chemical Peels: Exfoliate the skin using medical-grade acids to remove damaged layers, promote cell turnover, and fade acne scars for a smoother, more even complexion.
  • Laser Skin Resurfacing: Uses targeted laser energy to remove damaged skin cells, trigger collagen remodeling, and improve the appearance of acne scars, pigmentation, and overall skin texture.
  • PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): Uses growth factors from your own blood to accelerate cell regeneration, collagen production, and skin repair.
  • RF Microneedling: Uses ultrafine needles and radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen deep within the skin, improving texture, firmness, and scar depth.
  • Combination Therapy: PRP enhances the results of RF Microneedling by speeding up healing and amplifying collagen stimulation.
  •  

Why Choose These Treatments?

  • Collagen Stimulation: Both treatments boost collagen, helping to fill in acne scars over time.
  • Minimally Invasive: No incisions or extensive downtime required.
  • Quick Recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within one to two days.
  • Customizable: Treatment depth and intensity are adjusted for individual skin needs.
  • Smooths Skin Texture: Helps reduce uneven skin caused by pitted scars.
  • Supports Skin Regeneration: PRP accelerates healing, making skin appear healthier and more radiant.
  • Long-Lasting Effects: Skin continues to improve for months after treatment.
Side-by-side comparison of a woman's neck before and after platysmal band injections.

FAQs

How many sessions are needed?
Most patients see significant improvement after 3 to 4 sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart.

Are these treatments painful?
A topical anesthetic is applied beforehand, minimizing discomfort during the procedure.

How soon will I see results?
Initial improvements can be seen within a few weeks, with continued enhancement over the next several months.

Can PRP be combined with other treatments?
Yes! PRP can be paired with laser treatments or chemical peels for even greater results.

Are these treatments safe for all skin types?
Yes! PRP and RF Microneedling are effective for a wide range of skin tones and types.

Acne scars don’t have to be permanent. With advanced treatments like PRP and RF Microneedling, you can restore smoother, more even skin and regain confidence in your appearance.

Hear from

Real Patients
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449 reviews
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James Craft
September 23, 2026
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favorite dermatologist hands-down. Highly recommended.
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Danielle Glenn
September 16, 2026
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I have been going to Metropolis Dermatology for about two years now, and it has been, and continues to be, a wonderful experience. The staff are always friendly, thorough, and welcoming. They make everything run so smoothly, and I appreciate how prompt they are in answering any questions I have. But the star of the show is Dr. Shauna Higgins! I could spend all day writing about what an incredible physician she is. She is the kind of doctor people wish for. She’s incredibly caring, so attentive, and extremely knowledgeable. At every appointment with her, I walk out feeling seen and heard, and I always leave with a smile on my face. Prior to coming to her, I was struggling with my skin in many ways, but she has completely fixed all of those issues! If I could have her as all of my doctors, I absolutely would.
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James Bond
September 16, 2026
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They have snacks, tea, coffee , and water for you. The staff is very nice and pleasant. One staff suggested a nice restaurant and bakery . Dr. Higgins is excellent and has great communication skills. I asked a few questions and she gladly answered. Some doctors are short and blunt and you don't feel comfortable asking questions. I'm glad Metropolis is not that type of medical facility . The staff are courteous, the place is clean and they have snacks!
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Schedule Your Consultation Today!

At Metropolis Dermatology in Costa Mesa, CA, we offer customized acne scar treatments designed to fit your unique needs. Take the first step toward scar-free skin—schedule your consultation today!

 

 

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