Our Scar Treatment Toolbox
Scars are a fascinating topic and an area where dermatology has made enormous progress over the last decade. Patients are often surprised to learn just how many different types of scars there are, and how differently each responds to treatment. Acne scars, for example, can look like tiny “ice pick” marks, broad depressions, or rolling waves under the skin. Surgical or traumatic scars might be raised, firm, and red in their early months, sometimes thickening or spreading if the body’s healing process goes into overdrive. Even stretch marks are, at their core, a unique form of scarring.
The real secret to treating scars successfully is a personalized approach. Scar tissue can form for many reasons, and the biology behind each type is different. That’s why a therapy that works wonders for one person might do little for another. The most effective care always begins with a precise diagnosis; what type of scar, how old it is, the patient’s skin type, and their history of healing. In my clinical research and daily practice, I’ve seen just how much of a difference it makes to have access to a complete arsenal of devices and techniques.
For indented or atrophic scars, especially those from acne or certain surgeries, fractional lasers like Fraxel® DUAL or the CO2RE® fractional CO2 laser are truly transformative. By delivering columns of focused energy into the skin, these lasers stimulate new collagen growth and help “fill in” depressions over time. The result is smoother, firmer skin, often with impressive improvement after just a few sessions.
Radiofrequency microneedling (like Genius® RF or eMatrix™) is another major advance, particularly for acne scars or self-harm scars. This technology combines the skin’s natural wound healing with deep thermal energy, triggering significant remodeling beneath the surface. It’s suitable for all skin types, which is key for patients with deeper skin tones, since traditional lasers can sometimes carry risk of pigmentation changes.
For early scars that are still red or raised, vascular lasers like VBeam® or DermaV™ excel at fading redness and flattening texture. These treatments target blood vessels in the scar tissue, accelerating the natural fading process and helping scars blend in much faster. For mild scarring, microneedling (SkinPen®) can also be highly effective, encouraging gentle collagen formation with minimal downtime.
Sometimes, the best results come from combining approaches: pairing a laser with microneedling, or using a little filler to lift a deep scar instantly while the skin continues to remodel. Each plan is tailored, evidence-based, and designed to provide the maximum improvement with the least risk or downtime. My approach is always rooted in the latest published research and years of hands-on experience, because no one should have to settle for “just living with” scars that bother them.
Along with in-office procedures, topical scar management can play an important role in healing and improving outcomes. For patients with fresh wounds or compromised skin after procedures, I often recommend Stratamed® a flexible, film-forming wound dressing that creates the ideal environment for healing right from the start. Once the skin is closed, Strataderm® silicone gel can be applied to help soften, flatten, and fade existing scars of all kinds. Both products are clinically proven and available at skinfo® for ongoing scar care at home, and they’re easy to work into your daily routine.
If you have scars that have affected your confidence or comfort, don’t assume you’re stuck with them. Unlike many offices that offer just one or two solutions, Advanced Dermatology’s scar treatment toolbox is fully stocked, giving you a wide range of safe, effective options for every type of scar and every skin tone. Schedule a cosmetic consultation, and together, let’s create a treatment plan that’s right for you!