# What Dermatologists Say About Laser Acne Outcomes
Laser treatments have become one of the most popular medical approaches for reducing acne scars, but dermatologists emphasize that understanding realistic expectations is crucial for patient satisfaction. While lasers can significantly improve the appearance of acne scars, they cannot completely erase them in most cases.
How Laser Treatment Works
Laser acne scar removal uses light energy and heat to remove the outer layer of skin while simultaneously activating collagen production. This process stimulates the growth of healthy skin cells in scar tissue, causing the scar to fade over time. Different types of lasers work in different ways. Fractional CO2 lasers are the most powerful option and work best for deep pitted scars, creating micro-channels that stimulate collagen and provide strong resurfacing. Erbium YAG lasers remove thin layers of skin with less heat than CO2 lasers, making them suitable for mild to moderate scars with shorter recovery times. Pulsed dye lasers target redness and discoloration by reducing blood vessel activity and inflammation rather than resurfacing the skin.
Number of Sessions Needed
The number of laser sessions required depends on scar severity. Mild scars typically need one to two sessions, moderate scars require three to five sessions, and deep or mixed scars may need five or more sessions. Most patients undergoing VBeam laser treatment need four to six sessions spaced about four weeks apart. Fraxel laser patients typically need three to six sessions, while Clear and Brilliant laser treatments usually involve four to six sessions spaced three to four weeks apart. Results are progressive, with patients usually noticing improvement after the first treatment and continued gains over several months.
Recovery and Side Effects
Side effects from laser treatment are generally minimal. Most patients experience mild swelling and redness that resolve within a few hours to 48 hours after treatment. Recovery time varies by laser type. Fractional CO2 lasers require seven to fourteen days of downtime, while Erbium YAG lasers typically need three to seven days. Non-ablative fractional lasers have minimal downtime and may show visible results in a single treatment.
What Lasers Can and Cannot Do
Dermatologists stress that laser treatment primarily works by resurfacing the upper layers of skin and stimulating collagen production. However, it does not address deeper structural issues such as tethered scars or true tissue loss. Scars that are anchored by fibrous bands or extend deep into the dermis may show only modest improvement with laser treatment alone. This is why dermatologists often recommend combining laser treatment with other techniques like microneedling radiofrequency for better overall results.
Realistic Expectations
Dermatologists emphasize that treatment aims to enhance texture, soften shadows, and even skin tone rather than completely erase scars. Results vary significantly based on skin color, skin type, scar severity, and overall skin health. Darker skin tones are more prone to post-inflammatory pigmentation changes, which can restrict how aggressively treatment can be delivered. Higher laser intensity increases inflammation, downtime, and the risk of complications like pigmentation changes or scarring, but it still does not address deeper issues like scar tethering or volume loss. Better outcomes come from smarter treatment planning and combining the right techniques at appropriate intensities rather than simply increasing laser power.
Long-Term Results and Aftercare
Results from laser treatments are often long-lasting, providing individuals with more permanent improvement in their skin’s appearance. Patients may notice a reduction in scar depth and color, leading to greater confidence and satisfaction. To maintain results, dermatologists recommend daily sunscreen use because UV rays can worsen pigmentation after laser treatments. A gentle skincare routine is important during recovery, avoiding scrubs or harsh activities while the skin heals. Staying hydrated supports faster healing and maintains skin elasticity.
The Importance of Professional Care
Professional supervision makes a significant difference in outcomes. Dermatologists evaluate scar type, adjust energy levels based on individual skin characteristics, and monitor healing patterns throughout treatment. They customize energy levels for different skin tones and target scars while protecting surrounding tissue. This personalized approach minimizes downtime while maximizing results and helps ensure a smoother, more natural outcome.
Sources
https://www.michelegreenmd.com/laser-vs-microneedling-for-acne-scars
https://www.bareessentialsspa.com/laser-acne-scar-removal/
https://vitalskinderm.com/blog/laser-acne-and-scar-removal-guide/
https://www.london-dermatology-centre.co.uk/blog/laser-acne-scars-combination-treatment/
https://www.olivaclinic.com/blog/best-pimple-scar-treatment/
