SCAR HEALING & ACNE SCAR TREATMENT PROCEDURES

Acne Scar Treatment Long Beach

Acne Scar Treatment Long Beach

Reveal smoother, clearer skin with professional acne scar treatments in Long Beach.

Acne scars, in particular, can have a profound effect on both your physical appearance and self-confidence. Even once you have left active breakouts in the past, these stubborn marks can leave lasting emotional impacts.

At the Scar Healing Institute in Long Beach, our experienced dermatologists work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to achieve lasting results. Scar healing is complex, and we are proud to offer the latest revolutionary acne scar treatments in Long Beach to transform your skin.

Book your consultation today to begin your journey to clear, scar-free skin with the Scar Healing Institute!

Acne Scar Treatment Before and Afters

JK2 SHI 94 - Acne Scarring Active Acne Patient Results Scar Healing
AP2 SHI 88 - Acne Scarring Active Acne Patient Results Scar Healing
DC SHI 95 - Acne Scarring Active Acne Patient Results Scar Healing

Types of Acne Scars Our Dermatologists Treat

Icepick Acne Scars

Icepick scars are deep and narrow marks formed when severe acne, often cystic, damages the skin’s deeper layers. These scars are typically V-shaped and, as the name suggests, look like a small wound from an ice pick in the skin. Due to their depth, icepick scars can be more stubborn to treat than other types of acne scars, often requiring procedures like CROSS or microneedling in order to see improvement.

Boxcar Acne Scars

Boxcar scars are marked by wide, shallow depressions with sharp, defined edges. Typically forming rounded or oval shapes, these scars occur when acne causes a loss of skin tissue, leaving behind a crater-like indentation. While more shallow than icepick scars, the distinct edges of boxcar scars often make them prominent. Subcision, dermabrasion, and laser skin resurfacing are typically the most effective at improving their appearance and restoring smoother skin.

Rolling Acne Scars

Characterized by broad, wavy indentations in the skin, rolling scars give the face a slightly uneven texture. These scars develop when fibrous tissue beneath the skin pulls the surface down, causing it to sag or ripple. Unlike the defined edges of icepick or boxcar scars, rolling scars have softer, more gradual slopes. The fibrous connections beneath the skin can make these scars challenging to treat, but subcision is an effective treatment option to smooth the surface and improve texture.

Say Goodbye to Acne Scars: Our Acne Scar Treatments in Long Beach

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing uses high-energy beams to promote collagen production and get rid of dead skin cells, helping to improve the appearance of scars. The Scar Healing Institute offers a variety of lasers for patients in Long Beach, including CO2, Fotona 4D, Er:YAG, and Nd:YAG, each suited for unique aspects of scarring.

Our non-ablative lasers address discoloration and pigmentation, while our ablative lasers penetrate deep into the skin’s surface, remodeling the cells to improve texture. Laser resurfacing is most effective for hypertrophic scars to take down their volume but is usually used as the final step after other treatments. Occasionally, multiple sessions may be needed to achieve the best results.

CROSS Treatments

Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scarring (CROSS) in Long Beach utilizes highly concentrated chemicals, typically phenol or trichloroacetic acid (TCA), to induce a controlled reaction. This inflammation stimulates collagen production, helping depressed scars rise back up to the level of the surrounding skin. Unlike a full-face chemical peel, CROSS is only performed on the scarred areas, leaving the healthy skin unharmed.

After the procedure, it’s important for patients to avoid sun exposure and follow aftercare instructions. While rare, possible side effects may include temporary changes in skin pigmentation or a deepening of scars. However, these risks are minimized through the careful, expert application of SHI CROSS by our skilled providers at the Scar Healing Institute.

Acne Scar Subcision

Subcision is a procedure where a hypodermic needle or cannula is inserted under the skin to disrupt the fibrous bands that bind scars to deeper tissue layers. Depending on the depth of the scars, this method can target superficial, mid, or deep skin layers. To ensure comfort and reduce bleeding, local anesthesia and tumescent fluid are applied during the procedure.

The process stimulates collagen production, helping to elevate scars to the level of surrounding healthy skin. For more severe scars, an advanced version of subcision, such as SHI LIFT using the Hazany Liberator, may be used. After the procedure, recovery involves swelling, soreness, and scabbing, with complete healing taking 1-2 weeks. However, visible improvements can take several months to fully develop.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is an intensive treatment that uses a rapidly rotating device to remove the top layer of skin. By removing the damaged, scarred skin, dermabrasion smooths out rough texture. This acne scar treatment in Long Beach can be tailored to different scar types and depths but is often most effective on boxcar scars. The recovery timeline can look different for everyone, but the skin typically re-epithelializes in two weeks with lingering redness for several months.

Punch Excision

Punch excision is a surgical technique that uses a small, circular “cookie-cutter” tool to remove scar tissue. Depending on the size and site, sutures may be used to close the wound. This kind of acne scar removal is most effective for atrophic scars, such as deep acne scars, that have been resistant to other treatment modalities. Compared to surgical excision, punch excision is much more precise and only targets a small (1-3 mm) scarred area.

Injectables

The Scar Healing Institute offers numerous injectable treatments for acne scars. We are well-known for our SHI STIM procedure in Long Beach, which uses poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) to stimulate collagen-producing cells, known as fibroblasts.

PLLA is more commonly known by the brand name Sculptra. Importantly, Sculptra is not a dermal filler but rather a biostimulant that encourages the production of collagen. An integral protein in skin repair, collagen strengthens and thickens the skin to smooth out the appearance of scars, fine lines, and wrinkles.

How Much Does Acne Scar Treatment Cost in Long Beach?

The cost of acne scar treatment in Long Beach differs greatly based on the selected treatment, scar severity, and the provider. Subcision, punch excision, and dermabrasion are often more expensive compared to less complex treatments such as chemical peels or peptide injections.

Schedule your consultation with the Scar Healing Institute now to get detailed quotes for your customized acne scar treatment!

Scar Healing Pattern

Your Acne Scar Treatment at Scar Healing Institute

At your consultation, our acne scar specialists will thoroughly assess your scarring through dermatoscopic imaging, professional photographs, and Ultrasound. We will also cover your medical history, including past treatments, allergies, etc. to determine which treatment is right for you. Then, we will formulate a unique plan, with your goals in mind, to treat your acne scars.

Once we have determined the best course of action, we will discuss how to prepare for your acne scar treatment in Long Beach. Based on your skin type and current routine, this may involve avoiding sun exposure, stopping harsh skincare products, or pre-treating with a lightening agent. For more invasive treatments, we may apply numbing cream beforehand to guarantee comfort throughout the procedure.

Finding a team that understands your skin, and your body is key.

Recovery & Aftercare for Acne Scar Treatments

Aftercare is one of the most important aspects of the acne scar removal process. Proper care not only speeds up healing but also ensures that you achieve the best possible results from your treatment. While recovery instructions vary based on the specific procedure you select, there are some general guidelines.

Hyperpigmentation is a common concern, especially among people of color. Sun avoidance is key, and lightening creams may be prescribed, particularly for individuals with darker skin tones. To give your skin time to recover, you may be asked to refrain from physical activity and discontinue products such as retinoids, acids, and make-up.

For more advanced treatments, such as our three-layer subcision, aftercare includes additional instructions for suctioning, massaging, and wearing a facial compression garment. Ultimately, your provider will give tailored post-care instructions based on their professional assessment.

Why Choose Scar Healing Institute for Your Skin

The Scar Healing Institute prioritizes personalized care, using the most advanced treatment methods to deliver real results in a safe, professional environment. Scars are a niche field, and we have over 10 years of experience working with all different skin types.

We understand that everyone’s scars are different. Rather than offering a generic solution, our scar specialists will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your skin to identify the most effective acne scar treatment. The Scar Healing Institute offers personalized acne treatment plans in Long Beach based on your skin type, scar severity, and individual goals.

From your first visit to post-treatment follow-up, the Scar Healing Institute provides care throughout your entire scar healing journey. Our team is here to answer any questions, offer guidance, and ensure you stay on track to achieve optimal results. We take the time to educate you about the healing process and offer continuous support, making sure you are fully satisfied with your progress.

Anisha Scar Healing Institute

Don’t Let Scars Hold You Back – Schedule Your Acne Scar Treatment Now

Our expert team integrates cutting-edge technology with individualized treatment to target acne scarring. The Scar Healing Institute is committed to helping you achieve smoother, clearer skin and restore your natural glow. No matter if your scarring has been there for years or just appeared, we have solutions for you.

Schedule your consultation for acne scar treatment in Long Beach today and take the first step toward happiness and confidence.

FAQs About Acne Scar Treatment

Patience and realistic expectations are crucial, as scar treatments take time to show full effects. Healing and collagen remodeling happen gradually, so results are typically seen within 3-6 months, though this can vary based on scar depth, treatment type, and your skin’s response. In many cases, occasional follow-up sessions can enhance or prolong the results.

At the Scar Healing Institute, your comfort is our top priority. We offer a range of anesthesia options, including topical, local, and general anesthesia, tailored to your treatment and personal preference. Following the procedure, you may experience some swelling, redness, or mild discomfort as your skin heals. However, any pain is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and proper aftercare.

While scar treatments can significantly enhance your appearance, it’s important to remember that some skin changes may still happen as you age. Over time, collagen production naturally decreases, which can impact the skin’s ability to maintain a smooth texture. Furthermore, if new acne develops after treatment, it may lead to fresh scarring, potentially requiring additional treatments.

We recommend waiting until your active acne is under control before starting acne scar treatment. Each new pimple could create additional scarring, which means you may end up “treating” scars while more are developing. This can make it more challenging to achieve clear, smooth skin in the long term.

Being proactive in treating active acne and addressing its underlying causes is essential. Lifestyle and dietary changes can often greatly improve your skin’s health. At the Scar Healing Institute, we provide a variety of treatments, including anti-inflammatory lasers and medical-grade facials. Additionally, it’s important to resist picking at affected areas and to consistently use sun protection to help prevent further damage.

Active breakouts are caused by clogged pores, excess oil, and bacteria in the skin. While fighting off the infection, your body creates inflammation, which may change skin texture and structure. Oftentimes, during the healing process, your body does not produce enough collagen to properly heal the affected area, leaving behind pitted or indented acne scars.

Areas We Serve

Long Beach
Anaheim
San Diego
Riverside
Santa Ana
Irvine
San Marino