Can Laser Therapy Reduce Scars?

Many of our patients want to know: What is the best laser for scar removal? Our Arizona-based team at Ironwood Dermatology explains that fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing is highly effective for reducing scars along with other skin tone or texture irregularities.

Scarring (whether by acne, other conditions, trauma, or surgery) occurs as a normal part of the healing process. After tissue is damaged, the body stimulates collagen growth in the area as a way of repairing wounds and closing any gaps that have developed. Acne, for example, can penetrate the outer layer of skin and harm the deeper layers, prompting a response from the body. Acne can be an inconvenience at best—but may also have a harmful effect on your self-esteem in addition causing permanent damage to the skin.

As collagen continues to build up throughout the healing process, the skin can develop a raised or bumpy appearance. Scar tissue may also be smooth or an obviously different texture from the surrounding skin, as well as a different shade or color.

Scars don’t ever completely go away, but they can gradually fade over time. Women and men who want to take more direct action can choose laser skin resurfacing, which uses light energy to remove the outer layer of damaged skin while promoting the production of new skin to take its place. Although lasers won’t completely remove scars, they can minimize scars’ appearance by prompting a fresh round of “repair work” in the target area.

Laser skin resurfacing can minimize several different types of scars, including: 

• Injury scars

• Burn marks

• Acne scars

During a laser treatment session, light passes through the surface to create heat beneath the skin. This prompts the creation of new, healthy collagen and promotes the growth of fresh skin.

There’s no one treatment that’s suitable for everyone—and acne scars can be especially stubborn. In addition to laser treatments, patients may consider facial fillers for indented scars, along with other approaches like chemical peels, microneedling, and microdermabrasion to remove outer layers and encourage renewal in inner layers. Keep in mind that fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing can reduce more severe scars compared to other types of laser skin treatments. 

Our team at Ironwood Dermatology can explain more about scar treatments during your consultation. Call us at 520.618.1630 or submit a contact form to request an appointment if you’d like to discuss laser skin resurfacing treatments to improve the look of your skin.