Laser Scar Removal - Ridding Your Body of Scars

Every scar has a story and although it may be an entertaining one, most people don't want to retell the story every time it is exposed in public. In all seriousness, they may be painful, inconvenient, and the source of deep self-esteem issues. Laser scar removal may be helpful in reducing their appearance and resolving the deeper physical and emotional effects that often accompany them.

What causes scars?

When the skin is damaged, it goes through a natural wound-healing process that includes inflammation, tissue growth, and the production of collagen. Through this process scars virtually fade away over time.

But sometimes the damage to the skin is very severe and certain abnormalities in this process can occur leaving more permanent reminders. Some examples of common abnormalities include the over production or under production of collagen. When this and other irregularities take place, permanent scarring may occur.

What kind of scar do you have?

There are three kinds of scars: atrophic, keloid, and hypertrophic.

* Hypertrophic types are pinkish, raised markings that remain within the outline of the original wound area. They are firm and may worsen or improve over time.
* Keloids are reddish-purple, raised disfigurements that extend beyond the outline of the original wound area. They are firm and more apparent on people with darker complexions, and may also worsen over time.
* Atrophic scars are depressions in the skin caused from abrasion or are often the result of certain skin conditions or diseases such as acne.

How can Laser Scar Removal help?

All three types of disfigurements can be successfully treated by laser treatment. It is important to note that this treatment will not completely eliminate marks but can significantly reduce their appearance.

How does Laser Scar Removal work?

Trained professionals will direct a laser at the skin and sometimes the surrounding area. The laser delivers a high concentration of light energy which removes a layer of skin to give the body a fresh appearance. The ablated layer of skin will slowly be replaced and the scarred area will appear more even in color and texture.

This treatment also stimulates the growth of appropriate amounts of collagen in the underlying skin layers. Depending on the severity and type of marking, a person may be required to return for additional treatments.

Laser Scar Removal is not for everyone

Some individuals may not be good candidates for laser treatment. Those with fair skin can benefit far more from laser treatment than those with darker complexions. Also, certain skin disorders such as dermatitis or psoriasis may disqualify a person from treatment. There are also medications that should not be taken while receiving treatment.

Any person who is concerned or feeling self-conscious about a raised, growing, or prominent scar, should consult with a certified and experienced dermatologist to see if this treatment is a possible solution.

Laser scar treatment can significantly reduce the appearance of scars and give you smoother, clearer skin. This technique is not for everyone, but for those who meet the criteria, it can make a life-changing difference.

source: ezinearticles.com

Considering Scar Revision

Before considering scar revision, the treating physician must have an understanding of wound healing and how scar tissue forms. Wound healing progresses in 3 phases: an inflammatory phase, a granulation phase, and the final, remodeling phase.

Inflammation is an immediate physiologic response to any injury to the body. In the skin, it serves the additional role of helping to contain and repel any organisms or foreign materials introduced into the tissues by a variety of traumas, including surgical incisions. The various mediators of inflammation are the first materials released in the wound, including activated complement, transforming growth factor-beta, circulating monocytes, tissue macrophages, neutrophils, platelets, clotting factors, and serum proteins, among others. Damaged collagen fibers promote platelet aggregation in the wound. Later, collagen provides the scaffold for wound healing as the major constituent of the extracellular matrix. This primary phase of wound healing typically lasts for 1-2 days.

The granulation or proliferative phase involves fibroblast proliferation within the wound bed. These cells are responsible for the production of the collagen extracellular matrix. Cytokines present in the wound bed at this time also promote the process of angiogenesis and the appearance of granulation tissue, a characteristic of the healing wound. Once collagen is laid down as an extracellular matrix and cells have grown on this scaffold, the wound enters the remodeling phase of wound healing.

The remodeling phase involves the reassortment of collagen fibers laid down in the preceding proliferative phase. Remodeling is the longest period of the wound healing process; it may continue for up to a year. However, 2-3 weeks is a more common interval for this final phase of wound healing. During this time, the net amount of collagen does not increase, but the formation of a more orderly arrangement of fibers helps to greatly increase the wound's tensile strength. When healed properly, the final wound strength reaches 70-80% of prewound strength.

The ideal scar is narrow and fills but does not eclipse the original volume of the wound bed. In fact, the wound often decreases in size upon healing due to contractile forces involved in scar formation. Occasionally, scar formation may be exuberant, as in the cases of hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation. Although discussed in detail in Keloid and Hypertrophic Scar, a brief mention of these unwelcome sequelae of wound healing is warranted.

Hypertrophic scars do not extend beyond the original boundaries of the wound laterally, but scar tissue may rise above the level of the surrounding skin. This commonly results in a very noticeable, irregularly contoured scar. A more extreme example of exuberant growth of scar tissue is the keloid. Keloid scars extend beyond the original borders of the wound, resulting in a raised and expanded scar relative to the original defect. These are often very noticeable, and they occur with increased frequency in persons with dark complexions. In both hypertrophic scars and keloids, components of the extracellular matrix are increased. Thus, while the number of fibroblasts present is normal, the cells present are apparently overactive in their wound healing response.

Treat Scars on the Nose

The way in which you treat a scar on the nose is really dependent on the type of scar. For many people with a scar on this area of the face, it's usually a result of acne or chickenpox. Others may experience scarring due to trauma or other medical conditions. Regardless of how the scar formed, it's often possible to reduce its signs with medications and medical procedures. There's even a self-care method that can bring about positive results.

Try massaging the scar. Raised scars can respond favorably to regular massage. You're essentially breaking down scar tissue so that it flattens out with the rest of the skin. This method may take several months to provide results.

Talk to your doctor about corticosteroids. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology recommends corticosteroid injections along raised scars on the skin, causing them to soften and even out with the rest of the skin. Even those affecting the nose can respond to this type of treatment. However, you may need to use a cortisone tape on such a sensitive area.

Invest in a silicone-based gel. This type of treatment is best for raised scars, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Simply apply the solution onto the scar to cause it to soften and flatten with the rest of the skin.

Consider a soft-tissue filler. The Mayo Clinic recommends this type of procedure for acne scars that are sunken into the skin. Collagen or fat can be injected under the scar to level it with the rest of your skin. This is a temporary treatment, as the filler dissipates over time.

Talk to a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon about a resurfacing procedure. Both dermabrasion and laser therapy are considered skin resurfacing. They can work on both raised and sunken scars. The top layer of the skin is removed, prompting new skin growth, while the lower layers are stimulated, which can cause the production of collagen. Collagen can firm the skin, reducing the signs of scarring on the nose.

Think about cosmetic surgery. While this is probably the most expensive method of scar removal, you may be able to completely eliminate the appearance of scarring on the nose with cosmetic surgery. Punch grafts use donor skin from another area of the body to replace scarred tissue. A small suture is needed to attach the graft, but it can be less noticeable than the original scar.

Types of Scars

Keloid scars
Keloids are itchy clusters of scar tissue that grow beyond the edges of the wound or incision. They occur when the body continues to produce the tough, fibrous protein known as collagen after a wound has healed. They are more common in dark-skinned people. Keloids are treated by injecting a steroid medication directly into the scar tissue to reduce redness and itching. However, the disheartening fact is that keloids have a tendency to recur, sometimes even larger than before, thus requiring repeated procedures.

Hypertrophic scars
These scars, unlike keloids, remain within the limits of the original wound. They often improve on their own, though it may take a year or more. They may also require steroid applications or in some cases may have to be improved surgically.

Contractures
Burns or other injuries that result in the loss of a large area of skin may form a scar that pulls the edges of the skin together, a process called contraction. Improving a contracture usually involves cutting out the scar and replacing it with a skin graft or a flap. In some cases, a procedure known as Z-plasty may be used.

Facial scars
Mostly, facial scars are cut out and closed with tiny stitches, leaving a less noticeable scar. Some facial scars can be softened using a technique called dermabrasion, that leaves a smoother surface to the skin, but does not completely erase the scar.

Scar Removal Home Remedies

A scar is the pinkish or brown patch of skin that grows in the place where you once had a wound or sore. They are areas of fibrous tissue that replace normal skin tissue after destruction of some of the dermis. A scar is thus the skin's natural way of repairing itself from injury. Most people have scars. The word scar is derived from the Greek word eschara, meaning fireplace.

Every skin injury or wound heals with a scar. The appearance of a scar however depends on the type and extent of the wound, as well as how an individual's body heals. Scar tissue is not similar to the tissue that it replaces and is usually of inferior quality. There is no hair growth on the scar tissue, and the skin there becomes less resistant to ultraviolet radiation.

Scarring occur when the deep dermis layer of skin is damaged. The deeper the damage, the worse the scar. Many skin scars are pale and leave a trace of the original injury that caused them. The time that a scar takes to form may range from a few days to, in some serious and rare cases, several years. Various treatments can speed up the process in serious cases.

To repair the damage, the body has to lay down new collagen tissues As the body cannot re-build the tissue exactly as it was, the scar tissue will have a different texture and quality than the surrounding normal tissue. An injury does not become a scar until the wound has completely healed.

Keloid & Hypertrophic Scars

Keloid and hypertrophic scars are usually thick, raised, unattractive masses of collagen at a site where the skin has been injured. They are frequently associated with a variety of characteristics including hardened, rope-like protrusions, raised surfaces and excessive discoloration.

The differences between hypertrophic and keloid scars can be confusing. Although they both have excessive collagen in common, they act differently. For instance, a hypertrophic scar forms soon after the skin has been lacerated, while keloids may not begin forming for up to a year after the injury.The tissue structure also varies between the two scar types. Collagen fiber formation in keloid scars actively spreads into the nearby healthy tissue while hypertrophic scars remain contained within the original boundary of the injury. The surrounding healthy tissue is not affected.

The fact is that the use of Silicone Gel Products is one of the few proven methods to help prevent hypertrophic and keloid scars.If you know you are susceptible because of previous scarring or a predisposition to this condition then you can exercise extra caution. Make sure you inform your medical professional of your condition prior to any surgery. Be aware that any time you have a body piercing, a tattoo or an injury to the skin, a hypertrophic or keloid scar is likely to form. The Biodermis Scar Management Products are designed to help prevent scarring as soon as your skin is completely healed.

Embarrassing scars

When skin is burned, cut, scraped, or otherwise injured, special cells called fibroblasts produce a substance called collagen to fill and close the wound. Collagen is a tough, fiber-like protein that makes up the most part of scar tissue. Collagen exists in normal skin, too, but in scar tissue, collagen fibers are more numerous and more haphazardly arranged. This is why scars can appear discolored or otherwise noticeable to the eye. Scars change over time. Some fade on their own, though this may take months to years, while others gradually change color and/or shape.

It's not possible to completely remove a scar, but a few treatments might help make your scars less noticeable Onion Extract acts as an anti-inflammatory and seems to inhibit the over-production of collagen in a scar. Onion extract is available in the United States as a gel by itself, but is also an ingredient in Mederma gel, a widely used scar treatment that you referred to in your question. Onion extract, by itself or as part of another course of treatment, requires consistent use over several months in order to produce any effect.

Silicone, available either as a gel or in rubber-like sheets, has been found to lighten and flatten scars. You apply the gel directly to the scar or use medical tape to cover the scar with the silicone sheet. It isn't known exactly how silicone helps scars heal — some researchers think that static electricity from the silicone helps align collagen fibers in the scar, while others think it might help trap moisture, which can help make scars fade.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids are natural fruit acids that are used to exfoliate (remove) dead skin cells. This process can improve the appearance of acne scars and reduce redness, as well as wrinkles and signs of aging. If you decide to use alpha hydroxy, investigate the various strengths and use the mildest. For people with sensitive skin, alpha hydroxy can cause irritation, stinging, and other problems. A health care provider or dermatologist can advise you on which types and concentrations of alpha hydroxy acids you can try.

Laser Scar Removal

The wound-healing process begins with inflammation, progresses to tissue formation and ends with modifying specific factors in the anatomy – such as collagen, the main protein found in connective tissue that supports the skin, bone, cartilage and blood vessels. Scarring occurs when the wound-healing process is disrupted by certain factors such as too much or too little collagen. For example, a keloid scar is a mass of collagen.

Today's laser scar removal techniques can reduce the appearance of several types of scars, including Keloid Scarring, Hypertrophic Scarring and Atrophic Scarring. like pockets in the skin that can result from skin conditions or diseases such as acne. Not everyone is a candidate for laser scar removal. People with skin disorders such as psoriasis, cystic acne and dermatitis may not be ideal candidates. Those using certain medications such as isotretinoin for acne must stop using the medication for six months prior to the procedure.

During laser scar removal, the laser is moved along the scar. This can vaporize or remove a layer of skin and expose a more natural-looking skin layer, which heals over time to minimize scar appearance. Other lasers may target lower layers of the skin, stimulating new collagen growth and correcting scars from the inside out. The laser scar removal procedure is often performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient surgery center, surgeon's office or hospital. Sometimes, general anesthesia is used. The surgery takes anywhere from a few minutes to an hour and a half.

Many types of lasers are available, each of which has unique benefits for scar removal. The CO2 and Er:YAG lasers are best suited for acne scarring. The CO2 is an ablative laser that basically sandblasts the skin away; resulting in some substantial downtime. The Er:Yag is also ablative, but less so than the CO2; meaning that it is less damaging. Many different companies manufacture CO2 and Er:YAG lasers.

Fractionated CO2 and Er:YAG lasers including the Fraxel and fractionated radiofrequency treatments also are very helpful for acne scarring, but they require multiple treatments. Fractionated lasers work by treating a fraction of the skin's surface. These lasers create tiny wounds in the deeper layer of the skin. Each wound is surrounded by untreated skin, helping to repair the treated area via a controlled wound-healing process. Both CO2 and Erbium YAG lasers as well as radiofrequency treatments can be fractionated.

Until recently, African-Americans were not considered ideal candidates for laser scar removal, but times are changing. Certain lasers (such as fractionated infrared lasers) and radiofrequency devices such as Thermage may be helpful in treating acne scars among African-Americans. There is still little that lasers can do to treat keloid scars affecting this population.

Natural Scar Remover

The removal of scars is a much argued topic. Almost everyone suffers from some type of scar that they have acquired throughout their life time. It is simply unavoidable. You may have certain acne scars on the face or body, surgically inflicted scars or even burn scars; you will likely have a scar of some type on you that you have been longing to get off. This is the main reason most people are searching for the best natural cures available for these scars on their body areas. You may ask yourself is it possible to remove and treat these skin blemishes by simply going to the pharmacy and purchasing something over the counter. While some small scars can be removed by everyday products some needs to be removed with surgical procedures.


Onion Extract Treatment - This onion extract treatment is perhaps viewed as one of the most common scar removers and is labeled as one of the main ingredients contained in Mederma. However, if you do a bit of research you will never find any human medical diagnostic tests that show this ingredient to be effective against skin scars. The only studies that shows or give any feedback with this onion extract treatment was a test done on a rabbit's ear. Most people who have argued that this onion extract treatment works in the removal of scars are claiming so as a result of what we call a placebo effect. Massaging the spot that is affected by scars will cause blood flow to increase which can be very good for treating these scars, as well as in breaking up the collagen.

Vitamin E is commonly believed to be the best scar remedy that we have naturally today. Many people including some doctors will suggest the use of vitamin E when treating a scar on your body. However, trials in the medical field have not proven too much about this particular treatment. In most cases, there was no improvement in scarring. Some of the users even worsened after using the above mentioned treatment due to a factor called contact dermatitis. Although Vitamin E through digestion can help deal with the issue of scarring, the topical applying of vitamin E has not been proven effective.

Since the discovery of Vitamin E, many other more effective natural treatments have been discovered, although much less publicly. With a some research and testing, you can achieve dramatic results using all natural scar removal products. Always follow a strict and safe routine. Use caution when applying any product to the skin on a daily basis.

Scar Natural Fix

Seeing scars on your body means that your body is healing. They can be the product of cuts or wounds, surgery, or acne. They can be anywhere on your skin, and be any color, size or shape. There are keloid scars, which can be very large and unsightly, and hypertrophic scars, which are more common and easier to treat. Even though it is a completely natural process, they can be ugly and annoying. Preventing scars can be made easier by following a few simple steps.

The best way to naturally prevent scar formation is through a healthy life style. Doing small things every day help your skin look great, as well as prevent scars, by maintaining a good level of collagen. Eating a balanced diet will help your healing process, minimizing scar tissue. Keeping protein in your diet will help your skin's ability to re-build itself. Vitamins and minerals, especially zinc, are great for your skin as well. Try not to eat foods with too much sugar, starch, or fatty acid. Also, for fast scar healing, don't smoke.

Staying hydrated is another way to prevent scars. Drink lots of fluids to maintain your body's electrolyte levels and promote the healing process. Try to avoid drinking alcohol because it can further dehydrate your body. Apart from a healthy lifestyle, sometimes we get unpreventable injuries that can lead to scars. It is important to act quickly with any skin injury in order to prevent scarring. When the wound is fresh, new skin cells rush to the area to create scar tissue. In these cases, protecting the area on your skin and applying a natural scar prevention cream can help your skin heal without problems.

It is important to protect the area of your skin that is injured or affected. It needs time to heal, so it is important to avoid further damage to your skin. This may include covering the spot with a bandage or clothing, using sunscreen, and avoiding any activity that could potentially harm your skin. Try not to touch the area either, because you could hinder the healing process. Finally, there are some very effective scar prevention products on the market to minimize scar formation. Creams with collagen or vitamin E help effectively prevent and remove scars. Apply the cream over time to see the best results.

Hypertrophic Scar Removal

Hypertrophic scars are caused because the body overproduces collagen. As a result, the damaged cells produce a raised scar much like a keloid scar. However, hypertrophic scars do not grow beyond the limits of the original wound like keloid scars do. Hypertrophic scars are more common. Because these types of scars do not grow very big, they tend to fade over time. While this type of scar is not life threatening, most people want to know how to get rid of hypertrophic scars because they can be unsightly.

There are a range of treatments for hypertrophic scars including natural skin care. Prevention is the first line of defense, but standard treatments include compression therapy, injections and surgery to excise the scars. Compression therapy entails applying pressure to the scar and the area around it. Reports have stated that by applying pressure to the scar, there is a reduction in the cohesive mess of collagen fibers. Some of the elements used in compression therapy include ACE bandages, elastic adhesive bandages, compression wraps, spandex or Lycra bandages.


For a long time, corticosteroid injections have been used as a common treatment to encourage hypertrophic scar healing. Corticosteroids reduce excessive scarring by reducing collagen synthesis, by altering glucosaminoglycan synthesis and by inhibiting the production of fibroblast proliferation during wound healing.
Another injection therapy includes steroid injections. In some cases, your doctor may choose to use steroid injections as the sole form of treatment. He may also incorporate a parallel form of treatment. Injections, such as collagen injections and fillers, can be used in the case of atrophic scars. However, this treatment is usually temporary.

Surgery is not usually the best option for a hypertrophic scar because any cut will reproduce the scar tissue. Nevertheless, if surgery is couple with other forms of treatment such as radiotherapy, corticosteroid and interferon injections, the results can be positive. Compression therapy is also a good option when hypertrophic scars are removed surgically. Deep massage with a hypertrophic scar cream that contains vitamin E will help soften the skin and make it more elastic. It also lubricates dry scar tissue and prevents them from reopening.

Massages are a natural way of flattening hypertrophic scars, and they can be very helpful in reducing the sensitivity and pain of a healed scar. You should only massage a closed scar, never an unhealed scar.

Best ways to minimise scars

A small scar may be worn with pride by some - yet for others it can be a distressing disfigurement. Scars are the result of the body producing collagen fibres as part of the repair process when the skin is broken and as such are unavoidable. But there are topical treatments on the market that can help minimise their appearance. Here are five options that may smooth and reduce unsightly minor blemishes.

Naturally rich in retinoic acid (Vitamin A), which encourages exfoliation and skin renewal, this oil is also an excellent source of essential fatty acids. These combine to help reduce scar tissue, stretch marks and fine lines. The oil is 100 per cent organic. Contains lavender, calendula and rosemary oil, Vitamins A & E, triisononanoin, which alters the structure of the skin, allowing other ingredients to penetrate, as well as paraffin, which holds moisture to the skin. Used to reduce the appearance of old or new scars, stretch marks and uneven pigmentation.

Silicone is used in medical dressings to aid wound healing and reduce scarring. This quick-drying transparent silicone gel is clinically proven to soften, flatten and smooth scars, as well as relieving itching and discomfort. Oil of the calendula flower is prized by naturalists for its antiseptic, and antiinflammatory qualities, as well as for its ability to heal and fade scars. Included here in a moisturising lanolin, beeswax and olive oil base, it is most effective when used on freshly healed wounds.

Cosmetic skin peels are often used to reduce the appearance of facial scarring. Containing urea and HEPES - similar to the glycolic acid used in chemical peels, but less harsh on the skin - this biological peel exfoliates, smooths and encourages new skin growth.

Process wound repair

The pineal gland hormone melatonin is known to have both anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Given this, we propose that melatonin is an ideal candidate to enhance the process of wound healing. The present study assessed the effects of exogenously administered melatonin, on scar formation using a full-thickness incisional rat model of dermal wound healing. Melatonin treatment significantly improved the quality of scarring, both in terms of maturity and orientation of collagen fibres.

An increase in nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity and therefore nitric oxide production is detrimental during inflammation but is favourable during granulation tissue formation. Melatonin treatment significantly decreased inducible NOS (iNOS) activity during the acute inflammatory phase but significantly increased iNOS activity during the resolving phase. Cyclooxygenase-2, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, was elevated in the melatonin-treated rats following wounding.

In addition, melatonin treatment also accelerated the angiogenic process, increasing the formation of new blood vessels and elevating the level of vascular endothelial growth factor protein expression during granulation tissue formation. Melatonin treatment increased arginase activity (which generates proline, a building block for collagen synthesis) from earlier time points. The protein profiles of hemoxygenase-1 (HO-1) and HO-2 isoforms, vital participants in the repair process, were also upregulated upon melatonin treatment. This study has therefore demonstrated, for the first time, that melatonin can significantly improve the quality of wound healing and scar formation.

Treatment of keloid scars

No effective treatment exists for permanent keloid removal. When applied to excised-sites, imiquimod 5% cream reduces keloid recurrence. Case series suggest the tolerability and efficacy of imiquimod 5% application to sites of shaved keloids; however, this has not been verified in placebo-controlled studies. To determine the tolerability and compare the efficacy of imiquimod 5% and vehicle cream in lowering keloid recurrence after shaving.

Twenty randomized, shaved keloids were administered imiquimod 5% or vehicle cream nightly for two weeks, and then given three times a week under occlusion for one month. Pain, tenderness, pruritus and keloid recurrence were evaluated at baseline, week 2, week 6 and 6 months. Tenderness and pain were significantly (p= 0.02 and p= 0.02, respectively) higher at week 2 in the imiquimod group than for those treated with vehicle cream. Pruritus did not attain statistical difference between the groups.

Conclusion: Imiquimod was well tolerated. There was not enough statistical power to detect a significant difference in six-month keloid recurrence rates between the two treated groups. At the present time, there is no therapeutic modality that is 100% safe and effective for the treatment of keloid scars. Recurrence rates for surgical excision of keloids have been reported between 45% and 100%. Keloids represent an abnormal response to injury where the healing environment manifests low levels of interferon alpha and gamma, in addition to other abnormalities. Furthermore, interferon alpha 2b has been shown to be anti-fibrotic by normalizing collagen and glycosaminoglycan production and collagenase activity.

Prior uncontrolled studies have suggested imiquimod 5% cream may be a useful adjuctive treatment to surgery. In an uncontrolled study by Stashower, eight keloids were debulked by tangential shaving and imiquimod cream applied daily for six weeks with no recurrences at one year. In another uncontrolled, pilot study, eight keloids were treated with imiquimod 5% cream daily for 8 weeks. At 24 weeks, 25% (2/8) recurred and imiquimod was relatively well-tolerated. This purpose of this study was twofold: first, to objectively examine the tolerability of treating newly tangentially shaved keloids with imiquimod 5% cream and, second, to evaluate the efficacy in lowering the recurrence rates of keloids.

Groundbreaking skin treatment

The Dermatology Center of St. Luke’s Medical Center has acquired the country’s first Sciton Profractional Laser, a new groundbreaking technology that provides virtually painless treatment of scars and aging facial skin.A population option for facial skin enhancement, the procedure utilizes ablative lasers. When directed to the skin, the energy heats the water within the surface layers of the skin causing both the water and the tissue to vaporize.

Every time the laser passes the skin, portions of the outermost layers are removed with utmost precision and control. The skin then heals over a period of time, usually three to four weeks, as new layers of collagen are produced. An improved skin literally resurfaces without traces of sun damage or acne scars. Unlike conventional ablative lasers where effective results are associated with prolonged downtime, the profractional technology offers a cost-effective solution for treating wrinkles, scar and epidermal dyspigmentation, resulting in healthier skin in a much shorter time.

Non-ablative laser treatments have shorter healing time but require several treatments in monthly intervals. These generally have more subtle improvements over time.Dr. Lonabel Encarnacion, Head of the Dermatology Center, explained that profractional treatments combine the benefits of the faster recovery of non-ablative technology. She added that the profractional laser targets a specific area, leaving surrounding skin intact. Skin problems are corrected, new collagen is produced – all within a shorter recovery period.“Some swelling and redness are expected from profractional treatments but this generally subsides within a day or two,” she said. “Optimal improvement is usually visible in about two to three months.

This time frame and treatment structure allows for complete healing and replacement of damaged tissue with new collagen, elastin and viable healthy skin cell growth.”The Dermatology Center at St. Luke’s Medical Center provides world-class medical and surgical outpatient dermatologic care. Patients are seen for common conditions such as acne, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea, hair loss, warts, actinic keratoses, and common skin infections, as well as patients with more complex disorders, including vitiligo, genetic diseases that affect the skin, dermatological manifestations of systemic illnesses, and skin cancer. In addition to the general dermatology outpatient service, the Center has several units devoted to specialized care in various subspecialties, including the Laser Unit, which provides Vascular Laser (Pulsed Dye Laser), Hair Removal (Alexandrite Laser), Pigment Laser treatments.

Treatments help acne scars

THE unhappy legacy of an acne outbreak can last a lifetime, with scarring undermining individuals' confidence and self-esteem. But new techniques emerging on the market are now giving a significantly better outcome for those with acne scarring. Not only does the new generation of techniques - such as fractional C02 lasering - produce better results for the patient, achieving these improved results means less discomfort and downtime as well.

Although it is important to point out that a perfect result is not possible, and that the depth and extent of the scarring will affect the quality of the final result, modern techniques have come a long way in terms of creating a satisfactory outcome for patients - one that enables them to face the world with renewed self-confidence. Despite the success of new procedures, prevention remains better than cure.

There's a tendency to see teenage acne as "normal", something the young person will grow out of. But acne is a disease that needs medical attention, and the sooner it's treated, the less chance there is of scarring. And those people who suffer from acne later in life should also seek prompt medical help. Even though 98% of us will experience acne to some degree, at some juncture in our lives, we don't have to put up with it.

Many factors can trigger an acne outbreak - stress, sleeplessness, pollution, a reaction to certain cosmetics - and this can cause embarrassment, especially in men who are the most reluctant to see a doctor. New treatments that are having a positive impact when applied to acne scars include: Dermaroller scar treatment therapy. This is suitable for all skin types and skin tones and works by producing thousands of microscopic needle columns in the dermis of the skin..

These stimulate the skin to regenerate and repair itself naturally and safely. This procedure is patient- friendly as it avoids ablation, heat, and pigmented skin safety concerns; Fractional CO2 laser treatments, such as Smartxide that creates "dot resurfacing". During treatment the laser creates thousands of microscopic pinpoint burns on the scars.

As only a percentage of the surface area is touched during each treatment, this technology combines the best of traditional ablative laser options but without the associated discomfort and downtime; Vavelta is a unique treatment involving the injection of human fibroblast cells - cells that synthesise collagen and maintain the structural integrity of connective tissue - into the area of the skin being treated.

Injections are performed with a fine needle. The nature of the cells injected means that there is no danger of the individual suffering immune rejection problems. The fibroblast lays down new collagen that will improve the appearance of the skin. All these treatments are an immense improvement on earlier options, but it is important to understand that they are medical procedures and should only be carried out by someone with the appropriate qualifications.

About 15% of our body weight is skin, and it is our largest organ; Skin is made up of two layers - the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is the top layer of the skin - the layer we see, while the lower layer or dermis is flexible and elastic and is made up of collagen and elastin; Acne is a disease of the sebaceous glands. These glands lie just beneath the surface of the skin.

They produce an oil called sebum, which keeps the skin moist; Acne develops when bacteria invade blocked pores and cause them to become inflamed. Those that develop deeper in the skin may form cysts or nodules; Scarring occurs when scar tissue replaces damaged cells due to inflammation. Acne occurs most commonly on the face, chest, shoulders, and back because those are the places that sebaceous cells occur; ontrary to popular belief acne outbreaks are not connected to a poor diet. While a healthy, balanced diet is good for overall health, snacking on sweet or oily food will not precipitate an acne attack; Another myth is that acne is caused by poor hygiene or dirty skin; Makeup can block pores. Choose makeup which is oil-free and look for the term "non-comedogenic" on the label. This means that the makeup is less likely to clog pores..

Erase wrinkles

A form of laser surgery first used for cosmetic procedures nearly 20 years ago could help wipe out wrinkles, experts have found. Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing fell out of favour because of side effects such as skin colour changes, scarring and acne. But new research suggests most of these clear up within two years, leaving patients with up to 50 per cent fewer lines and wrinkles.

The treatment works by removing layers of damaged skin, similar to the way a piece of sandpaper is used to smooth a piece of wood. It also 'fills in' wrinkles by stimulating the face to produce more collagen, according to a report in the journal Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery. It said American researchers who studied treatments on 47 people had concluded that the side effects almost always cleared up.

Acne scar treatment options

Acne scarring is an acute problem especially for those who have experienced ugly flare ups of acne in the past. Nearly 80% of all people are affected by acne when they are in their teens and twenties. Though many are left unscathed by acne attacks, some may have life-long scars which can be a constant source of embarrassment. There are many treatment options for treating acne scars ranging from topical skin creams to surgical intervention. Of course the importance of preventive measures can not be undermined especially if you want to avoid a life-long problem.

Preventions is the best way to avoid any future problem with acne. To prevent acne breakouts, it is important to know what causes acne in the first place. One of the easiest ways to prevent acne is to wash your face daily with a mild antibacterial soap and avoid using heavy lotions and creams in areas which are prone to acne.

To hit the right treatment option for acne scars you must know the different classifications of acne scars. You will then know which treatment will suit which type of scars. For instance the ice pick acne scars are sharp and narrow where the skin appears to have been sliced or punctured. Acne scar resurfacing options can not work with such deep scars. Boxcar acne scars on the other hand are round or oval in shape and if they have not penetrated too deeply they can respond to some treatments. Conventional acne scar treatments can not work on rolling scars which are spots just beneath the surface of the skin. These need breaking up the fibrous tissue under the skin.

While there are plenty of acne scar treatment methods , more often, these methods are combined to get the desired results. Dermal fillers is a treatment option where some substances are injected into the scar areas to give the skin a smoother and even look. Fat, bovine and human collagens are some of the substances used in dermal fillers which can not offer a permanent solution and have to be repeated to maintain the results obtained. Deeper acne scars like ice pick and boxcar scars, are usually treated with punch excision. This is a method where the entire scar area is removed and the skin round it is sutured. This method also leaves a scar, which is less noticeable.

Punch excision is used for skin grafting as well. Here in place of suturing the skin together a skin graft is used. Skin from behind the ear is usually the chosen skin. If the color and texture of skin grafting is noticeable after the procedure is complete, it can be rectified using skin resurfacing. Punch elevation is the procedure used for deep boxcar acne scars. Here the scar is removed using a particular tool and then elevating the skin to the level of the normal skin layer and then suturing the skin together. Here there is less risk of color and texture mismatching. It also reduces the visible scars left from punch incision. The method used for breaking the fibrous bands caused under the skin by rolling scars is subcutaneous incision. One of the most popular choices for any skin conditioning or repairing is laser resurfacing. It works by burning the top layer of the skin which is replaced soon by new and healthy skin as it heals with time.

Though there are plenty of ways for treating acne scars prevention is the best way to avoid this problem of scar removal. In case you feel that you need treatment for your acne scars, you must first consult your physician, who will refer you to a dermatologist who will help you with your acne scar treatment. While you are going to choose the best method for your acne scar treatment you must also pay equal attention to its efficacy and the cost involved. Sometimes you might have to choose a combination of therapies like combining punch elevation with laser resurfacing.

These complementary methods could result in minimal scarring caused by surgical intervention. It is important to get professional advice from doctors who are adequately qualified with the right credential. Also important to note is that there are plenty of over the counter products which promise complete acne scar removal. Though these may reduce the ugliness of the scars temporarily, your doctor is the best judge to offer remedial actions when it comes to a permanent solution.

Treating acne scars

Most successful acne scar treatment involves seeing a physician as the first step. The procedures to remove acne scars are usually surgical or at least require the assistance of a physician. There are several options available. Some of the more common are discussed below.

1. Punch Excision
This acne scar treatment basically uses a precise made-to-fit tool that exactly matches the shape of the scar to "punch out" the scar tissue. The wound is then sewn together and allowed to heal normally. This method can completely eliminate the scar if the new wound heals cleanly; even if it doesn't, the much smaller scar lends itself to easier laser resurfacing.
2. Laser Resurfacing
This procedure is both fast and popular. Usually an outpatient procedure, laser resurfacing involves actually burning away a very precisely calculated amount of skin at the site of the scar. The new skin that grows in will be smoother and reduces or eliminates the appearance of scars.
3. Dermal Fillers
This treatment is not a surgery, but involves the injection of a dermal filler like collagen directly into the site of a scar. This is best used on deep pit-type scars, as it works my raising the skin surface, filling out the pockmark.