For years most dermatologists recommended dermabrasion or chemical peels to remove acne scars. For some people these treatments worked very well, for some they didn't. Laser acne treatment is a recent invention and it produces very good results. Modern laser scar removal methods promote the growth of collagen under scars. So the scar is filled from the inside. The effect is long lasting and usually don't cause any complications.

Laser acne scar treatment is also called laser resurfacing. It uses high-energy light to remove skin damaged by acne scars. Laser treatment is used not only to treat acne scars, but also to minimize wrinkles and other skin imperfections.

There are three different types of laser acne scars treatment:

- Smoothbeam laser

- Vbeam laser

- Fraxel laser

Smoothbeam Laser

This treatment is done under topical anesthetic. Cooling cryogen spray is sprayed to your face just before the laser goes to work. The entire treatment feels comfortable.

One advantage of Smoothbeam laser treatment is that your face doesn't look red for days afterwards. Actually, redness disappears very quickly and in a few hours your skin looks normal, but smother and refreshed.

Vbeam Laser

Acne scars can be different shape: flat, depressed or raised. Vbeam treatment works for all of them. This scar removal method targets blood vessels in the scar. It works particularly well with red scars, making them significantly less visible.

Fraxel Laser

Fraxel laser scar removal is the most modern of laser methods. It is focused on getting rid of old pigmented cells of the top layers of the skin. This method is very precise; it only targets the scar aria without affecting surrounding skin.

The downside of laser resurfacing for acne scars is that your face will hurt for about a week after the treatment. You will have to take special medicine prescribed by your doctor to deal with the discomfort. Another thing is that you skin will be red for a couple weeks, so you will have to stay home or camouflage it with good foundations. Discuss with your doctor what make up brand would be best, because most over the counter cosmetics will irritate your already sensitive skin.

Would acne scars disappear completely?

This is the question most people who consider laser resurfacing want to ask. And the answer varies from person, it depends on your skin type and how deep your scars are. For some people scars disappear completely, for others they are reduced 60-80 percent. Sometimes one treatment is not enough to reduce the appearance of scars, so it should be repeated. Your doctor would be able to tell you what result you should expect from your laser treatment before it begins.

If your dermatologist is old-fashioned he or she will probably suggest dermabrasion for treating your acne scars. Ask if they do laser resurfacing as well. Laser acne scar treatments are safe, quick and produce excellent results. Even deep scars from cystic acne can be treated with a laser. You don't have to live with these horrible scars on your face any more, laser resurfacing can definitely help get rid of them.