Laser therapy for acne scarring is designed to lessen the visibility of scars left by prior acne outbreaks. Many people who’ve experienced acne are left with some degree of scarring.
Laser therapy for acne scars directs concentrated light at the upper skin layers to break down scar tissue. Simultaneously, the procedure stimulates the growth of new, healthy skin cells to replace the damaged tissue.
Although this approach rarely eradicates acne scars completely, it can make them less noticeable and may also relieve discomfort associated with the scars.
If you have active breakouts, darker skin pigmentation, or significant skin laxity, you might not be an ideal candidate for laser therapy. A dermatologist is the only person who can determine whether laser treatment for acne scars is appropriate for you.
Cost
Insurance usually doesn’t cover laser procedures for acne scars.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, typical out-of-pocket expenses average about $2,000 for ablative laser resurfacing and around $1,100 for non-ablative treatments. Your final cost will vary based on several factors, including:
- how many scars you want treated
- the size of the treatment area
- the number of sessions required
- the provider’s level of expertise
This therapy generally does not require extensive downtime. Many people can return to work within a day or two.
It can be helpful to consult multiple providers before choosing one to perform your laser sessions. Some clinics may charge a consultation fee to assess your skin and suggest a plan.
How it works
Laser therapy for acne scars operates through two main mechanisms.
First, the laser’s heat removes the superficial layer of skin where the scar is located. As the upper portion of the scar is shed, the skin surface smooths and the scar becomes less prominent.
While the scar tissue is being broken down, the laser’s light and heat also trigger the production of new, healthy skin cells. Increased blood flow is directed to the site by the laser’s warmth, and inflammation decreases as blood vessels within the scar are targeted.
These effects together help scars appear less raised and red, giving them a reduced look, and they support overall skin healing.
Procedure
Common lasers used for acne scars include erbium YAG lasers, carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers, and pulsed-dye lasers. Each device targets scarring in a particular manner based on the scar type.
Ablative laser resurfacing
Ablative resurfacing employs an erbium YAG or CO2 laser. This treatment removes the entire top skin layer in the scarred area. Redness from ablative lasers can take 3 to 10 days before it begins to fade.
Non-ablative laser resurfacing
Non-ablative treatments use infrared lasers. The heat from these lasers aims to boost collagen production and promote the generation of new cells to replace damaged scar tissue.
Fractionated laser treatment
Fractional lasers (such as Fraxel) work by stimulating tissue beneath the scar to eliminate deeply pigmented cells under the surface layer. This approach may be effective for boxcar and icepick scars.
Targeted areas
Lasers for acne scars most often target the face, but they can be used on other regions where acne scarring occurs. Typical treatment areas include:
- face
- arms
- back
- upper torso
- neck
Risks and side effects
There are potential risks and adverse effects associated with laser acne scar treatments. These vary depending on the laser type, your skin tone, and the number of sessions you receive.
Common side effects may include:
- swelling
- redness
- discomfort at the treated area
Pain from the procedure usually resolves within an hour or two. Redness can persist for up to 10 days.
Possible complications include hyperpigmentation and infection. Although these outcomes are uncommon and often avoidable, it’s important to discuss your personal risk factors with your clinician before proceeding.
If you experience pus, marked swelling, or a fever following laser treatment, contact your provider immediately.
Before and after pictures
Below are some real-world examples of laser therapy used to treat acne scars.
What to expect
Having realistic expectations before any cosmetic procedure is crucial. Keep in mind that laser therapy will not completely eliminate acne scars. At best, your scars will be significantly less conspicuous, but individual results vary.
After laser therapy, you’ll need to take extra care of your skin for weeks and months afterward. Your skin will be more susceptible to sun damage, so applying sunscreen before going outdoors is essential.
Avoid tanning and prolonged sun exposure for 6 to 8 weeks.
Your clinician may provide specific skin-care directions, such as particular toners or moisturizers, to help you get the most from your treatment.
Keep the treated area clean to reduce infection risk, and you might have lingering redness for several days or weeks. You may also need to refrain from wearing makeup for a week or longer until the risk of complications decreases.
Results are not immediate. Around 7 to 10 days after treatment, you’ll begin to see improvements in scar appearance. The changes from this therapy are long-lasting.
Preparing for treatment
You may need to adjust some habits to qualify for laser acne scar treatment. Typical pre-procedure steps include:
- avoiding aspirin or blood-thinning supplements for 2 weeks before the procedure
- not smoking for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment
- discontinuing skin-care products containing retinol for 2 weeks before your session
In certain cases, you might need to pause acne medications before laser therapy. If you’re prone to cold sores, your clinician may prescribe an antibiotic or antiviral preventative medication.
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How to find a provider
Laser therapy is an effective option to reduce the appearance of acne scars.
Consulting a board-certified dermatologist is the first step to discovering whether this treatment is suitable. If you don’t already have a dermatologist, you can search for specialists in your area using the Healthline FindCare tool. It’s wise to compare several providers to determine the most appropriate treatment and pricing for your needs.
Useful resources for locating a qualified provider include:
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