Acne Scar Treatment Irvine

The CROSS (Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scarring) technique is a highly effective treatment for deep, atrophic acne scars, particularly icepick scars. It involves the application of a strong chemical solution, typically trichloroacetic acid (TCA), directly into the scar to stimulate collagen production and promote skin resurfacing. The acid causes a controlled injury to the scar tissue, encouraging the skin to heal with smoother, more even texture. The CROSS technique is especially beneficial for deep scars that are difficult to treat with other methods.

While the recovery time is relatively short, patients may experience some redness and peeling, but the overall improvement in scar appearance can be significant. It is important to stay out of the sun and let the scabs fall off on their own—no picking or rubbing! At the Scar Healing Institute, our providers have years of experience performing SHI CROSS and take every precaution to minimize potential risks.

Dermabrasion is a professional skin resurfacing procedure designed to improve the appearance of acne scars by removing the outer layers of skin. During the treatment, a high-speed rotating device is used to “sand” away damaged skin, which helps to smooth out uneven textures and reduce the depth of scars. This technique is particularly effective for shallow scars but can also help with deeper scarring by stimulating the skin’s natural healing process and collagen production. The procedure typically requires some downtime for recovery, as the skin may be red and sensitive afterward, but the results can be long-lasting, with smoother, more even skin texture. Dermabrasion is often used for more severe acne scars and provides noticeable improvements with proper aftercare.

Punch excision is a surgical technique that uses a small, circular tool to precisely remove the scar tissue from the skin. The incision is then either stitched up or left to heal on its own, depending on the size and depth of the scar. This technique helps to remove the scar completely, allowing for smoother skin to form in its place. Punch excision is particularly effective for isolated, deep scars and can significantly improve skin texture. Recovery time varies, but with proper care, patients can expect noticeable improvements in the appearance of their scars.

The Scar Healing Institute offers many different injectable treatments for acne scars, including our signature SHI STIM procedure in Irvine. This treatment uses poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) to improve the appearance of acne scars by stimulating collagen production beneath the skin’s surface. PLLA is a biocompatible substance that is injected into the scar tissue, gradually filling in depressions and stimulating the skin’s natural healing process. As the collagen builds up over time, the treated area becomes smoother and more even in texture.

Unlike fillers that provide immediate volume, PLLA works gradually, offering long-lasting results as the collagen remodels the skin. This treatment is especially effective for rolling or boxcar scars, and multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results. The procedure has minimal downtime, but some temporary swelling or redness may occur after injections.