Acne scarring

The laser beam from a CO2 laser is divided up (fractionated) into thousands of very narrow shafts of light which make tiny holes in the surface of the skin.

As the skin heals, new healthy collagen forms which tightens the skin and smooths the acne scars.

Studies have show 30-50% improvement in acne scarring from a single treatment, but results vary between individuals.

This treatment is not suitable for thick keloid scars and may not make much difference to deep ice-pick scars.

One to three treatment sessions may be required, with six months between sessions.

In the first session a small area will be treated to make sure it is safe and effective for you.

You will be asked to attend an hour before your treatment. 

The laser nurse will put a numbing cream on which will take about an hour to work. 

During treatment the laser feels uncomfortable, and some people describe it as painful. The numbing cream will help reduce the discomfort and a stream of cold air may be blown across the skin which also helps.

You may find it helpful to take paracetamol or ibuprofen before you leave home.

The procedure itself will take about half an hour.

You will be provided with laser proof goggles or patches to protect your eyes.

Your skin will look and feel like moderate sunburn. It may be swollen and slightly oozy for 24 hours. After this the skin surface will peel for three to seven days.

The skin will heal in about seven days and may look pink for another three to six weeks. You can use makeup to cover it as soon as the skin has healed.

You should be prepared to take a week off work, contact sports, and swimming.

You will be given a detailed leaflet about how to look after your skin after the laser treatment.

Improvement in scars can be seen from a week after treatment, but the skin texture can continue to improve for three to six months. 

Lightening or darkening of skin pigmentation can happen after CO2 laser treatment. This is usually temporary but can be permanent. Darkening of the skin is more common in darker skin types and can sometimes be treated with topical bleaching creams.

Scarring can happen after CO2 laser treatment but this is uncommon.

A flare-up of acne spots or white bumps (milia) can happen on the skin surface.

Infection after CO2 laser treatment is possible but uncommon. If you have a history of cold sores you may be prescribed anti-viral medication to take before treatment to prevent a flare-up of the cold sore virus.

You may not be suitable for this treatment if:

• You are on warfarin.
• You are on Roaccutane (isotretinon) or have taken it within the past 12 months.
• You are on oral steroids.
• You have an active facial or skin infection, including cold sores.
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• You are sun-tanned or have a fake tan.
• You have very dark skin.
• You have active acne spots.