Fillers for Acne Scars
The most effective and longest-lasting treatment for atrophic acne scars (or “pitted” scars) is fractional laser resurfacing. There are two main types of fractional laser resurfacing performed at the Clear Clinic for acne scars: Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing and Fraxel laser resurfacing. These treatments each use a different type of laser energy, but they work in a simular fashion. Both resurfacing lasers poke microscopic holes in the skin to stimulate the production of collagen, to fill in the pitted scars. This collagen improvement is permanent, though it can takes months to fully present.
Some patients, for whatever reason (wedding, interview, etc) need immediate improvement. They might plan to do a more permanent fractional resurfacing treatment in the future, but for now, they need quick results. These patients often have great success with dermal fillers for the treatment of their acne scars.
Dr. Schweiger explains that, “Dermal fillers, such as Restylane and Juvederm, can be injected directly into the scar to attempt to even out the texture of the skin. Results are seen immediately after the treatment, though some swelling may persist for a few days. Dermal fillers last approximately six to nine months in the skin.
