About Our Acne & Scarring Services
Acne scars are among the most challenging to treat, given they come in all shapes and sizes. There is no one “correct” treatment for acne scars. The mode(s) of treatment depends on characteristics and the patient’s skin type. In general, treatments using multiple methods are preferable to any single treatment. Often, the first step is to completely treat the acne before treating the acne scarring.
ACNE TREATMENT
Acne is a common but complex medical condition affecting not only teenagers, but people of all ages. Adult-onset acne is becoming more prevalent and requires different treatments than standard teenage acne. We specialize in acne, ranging from mild to severe. Our office carries various medical-grade products that we believe are among the best for helping to clear acne. We also prescribe a wide range of generic and new branded medications to tailor to the specific patient, including Accutane as a treatment option for those who require it. We know that acne medications can sometimes be expensive and may not be fully covered by insurance. Therefore, we will work with various specialty pharmacies to get the best medications at affordable prices for our patients.
PRP SCAR TREATMENT
Platelet Rich Plasma, also known as PRP, is considered a new technique in dermatology to battle the loss of collagen due to aging and UV damage. The procedure takes about 30 minutes and requires a blood draw, which is purified and isolated before being injected into the treatment area. It contains highly activated growth factors from platelets, which plays a key role in blood vessel and wound recovery. When used either alone through direct injection into lines and wrinkles on the face, or combined with other modalities such as microneedling or laser, it can speed healing and improve the appearance of the skin. We perform a variety of treatments with PRP, including for post-laser recovery, melasma, microneedling, acne scar treatments, and scalp hair regrowth.
RADIOFREQUENCY (RF) MICRONEEDLING FOR SCARS
One of the hottest new technologies is available at Metropolis Dermatology. By combining the collagen-generating effects of microneedling with the tightening and ablative effects of radiofrequency waves, this is the best of both worlds. With minimal downtime, a maximum dual effect of improved tightening can be achieved using this method. When used properly, this technique is safe for all skin types. A series of treatments is necessary for the optimum effect.
Our RF microneedling technology can go to a depth of 3.5mm, reaching the deep dermis, where the collagen generation and tightening effects are greatest. Our state-of-the-art chiller system makes this a minimally painful experience. This treatment is quick and can be combined with other treatments, such as platelet rich plasma (PRP), to allow for deeper penetration of those ingredients.
CO2 SKIN RESURFACING FOR SCARS
CO2 lasers are among the most powerful there is for resurfacing the skin. It can take years off the age of the skin and treat almost all forms of blemishes on the face, from fine lines and wrinkles to sunspots and large pores. The texture of the skin can change dramatically. However, it should be done carefully to avoid laser burns and other complications. The downtime for a fully ablative procedure can be on the order of one month, but fractionated resurfacing can have a downtime of as little as 5-7 days. The laser can especially be useful for facial rejuvenation, neck tightening, hand rejuvenation, mole removal, and scar revision.
Our CO2 laser offers skin rejuvenation with a built-in microthermal zone scanner to make sure the skin does not overheat. We also offer a special CO2 fractional resurfacing of the hands using a laser swift-scanner, which is designed specifically to automatically track and remove age spots from the tops of the hands.
ERBIUM: YAG FRACTIONAL RESURFACING FOR SCARS
Fractional resurfacing using Erbium: Yag technology is a wonderful high-impact treatment that can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, blemishes, pores, and scars. It is gentler than CO2 and can be safe for all skin types and should be done in a series over time to promote long-lasting improvement and generation of collagen in the skin.
Our Erbium: Yag 2940nm resurfacing laser can be tailored to offer a no-downtime laser micro peel for those looking for glowing skin before important events. It can also be used for a deeper, full resurfacing to eliminate lines, wrinkles, and scars. Like any laser, possible side effects include laser burns and other complications. A consultation with a specialist is required prior to treatment.
SPECTRA FX LASER
Spectra FX Laser is a new addition to Lutronic’s line of high-end lasers that uses fractionated nano-second laser pulses delivered with a novel handpiece for the treatment of acne scarring and textural improvements. Spectra FX delivers fractionated, high-energy split nano-second pulses to induce non-thermal optical breakdown within the dermis to promote collagen remodeling and elastin production while leaving the epidermis unharmed. Spectra FX was also effective in improving skin texture and quality, with improvements in radiance, smoothness, pigmentation, pore size, and wrinkles. Studies demonstrated not only the efficacy but also the safety and minimum downtime associated with the Spectra FX procedure. We consider this the next-generation Pico laser.
GOOD CANDIDATES FOR AN ACNE TREATMENT
If you have severe acne problems that won’t go away no matter what products you try, acne treatment at Metropolis Dermatology can help you rejuvenate your vibrant skin. Ideal candidates should be in good general health with no current skin infections and have realistic expectations. During your consultation, our skilled team will perform an assessment of your skin and ask about your medical history to determine if an acne treatment is right for you.
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