Scars: an annoying blemish

Scars can be an annoying blemish to live with. There are many different kind of scars that can originate from a number of different conditions (e.g. acne scars, surgery scars and so on). Depending on the type of scar to be dealt with, a variety of treatment options can be chosen. Laser scar treatment is a non-invasive, advanced approach to scar treatment that offers excellent results without the discomfort and downtime of surgery.

Get rid of scars in a gentle and safe way

The ablative lasers are the “gold standard” of lasers for dermatological treatments. They ablate the skin with a degree of precision that can be measured in microns. This makes it possible to safely and gently remove a wide variety of lesions from the skin at epidermis and dermis level, including scars. Due to their ease of absorption in water, both the Erbium:YAG (2,940 nm) and the CO2 (10,600 nm) wavelengths are highly suitable for this purpose.
The MicroSpot technology from Asclepion offers the possibility to carry out fractional treatments as well. This special technology allows the treatment of only “fractions” of the skin in the form of a grid. This is made possible by splitting the laser beam into several hundred partial rays, which are barely visible to the naked eye. It triggers skin renewal and collagen formation, without harming the surrounding tissue. In just a few quick, easy treatment sessions, scars are much less visible, leaving behind smoother, more attractive skin.

Striae distensae (stretch marks)

Another very common blemish that can be successfully treated with the laser therapy are the striae distensae, also known as stretch marks. These blemishes are characterized by linear bands of atrophic or wrinkled skin that result from excessive dermal stretching, such as after rapid weight loss/gain, pubertal growth or pregnancy. In their early stages, they are present as a dermal inflammation with dilated capillaries, which results in an erythematous appearance. In the terminal phase, striae appear hypopigmented and fibrotic owing to the linear deposition of dermal bundles and the thinning of the overlying epidermis.
The result of laser scar treatment is a flattening of the edges of the scar, a visible improvement in the skin texture and in the color of the scar, which becomes lighter.

Ablative lasers: the gold standard for dermatological treatments

The ablative lasers are the “gold standard” of lasers for dermatological treatments. They ablate the skin with a degree of precision that can be measured in microns. This makes it possible to safely and gently remove a wide variety of lesions from the skin at epidermis and dermis level. Due to their ease of absorption in water, both the Erbium:YAG (2,940 nm) and the CO2 (10,600 nm) wavelengths are highly suitable for this purpose.
The skin is disinfected before the treatment is carried out. Then, depending on the size and/or depth of the lesion to be dealt with, the dermatologist decides whether anesthesia is required and what type of anesthesia is appropriate (most of the treatments are very well tolerated without any anesthesia!).

Gentle and effective treatments

Treatments using lasers are gentle on the skin and eliminate bothersome skin lesions very effectively and in a matter of minutes. The Erbium laser works very precisely and can selectively remove skin areas to a predefined depth with little pain. At the same time it stimulates skin renewal. The results are impressive: tangibly smoother, softer skin.
After treatment, it normally only takes a few days for the wound to heal. It is recommended not to expose the treated area to sunlight or sunbeds for at least 10/15 days prior to/following treatment. The use of sunscreen is recommended in summertime and in general when treating areas exposed to sunlight (e.g. the face).
Studies show that the Erbium laser is also very effective in treating scars, for example acne scars, and for skin rejuvenation. The success results from the highly precise removal of tissue during treatment, softening and smoothing of tissue during wound healing and collagen neogenesis during the first year post-op.

What types of scars can be treated?

Laser scar removal can work on many skin types, including very light and very dark skin. The best results are observed on atrophic and acne scars, which are normally relatively flat. The procedure can also be used successfully for the treatment of striae, resulting in an improvement in the appearance of the scar (no removal). The treatment of hypertrophic and keloid scars (that are normally pink, raised, firm and erythematous) is not recommended.

Is the treatment painful?

Most people feel minimal discomfort during laser scar treatment. The treatment is normally well-tolerated, however a local anesthetic may be used for particularly sensitive areas.

How many sessions are necessary?

According to the size and location of the scar, several sessions may be needed. A course of three to seven treatments can, in most cases, provide good aesthetic results.

How long is the recovery time?

The recovery time is usually very short. Most people resume regular activities immediately following the treatment session. During the first 48 hours, there may be a sensation of heat or burning similar to sunstroke – discomfort that will vanish thanks to the use of creams indicated by the physician. For 10-15 days afterwards, the skin will have a smooth appearance with a reddish color that can easily be covered with light makeup and without affecting your daily activities or social life.

Are there any undesirable side effects?

Typical side effects include temporary redness and swelling, which should last only a few days. There is a low risk of prolonged itching, redness, and blistering. There may be some unsightly dark marks, which always disappear within a few weeks, either on their own or by following your physician’s instructions.

Asclepion Laser Technologies is working closely with physicians, clinics and universities to improve technologies to assess their effectiveness and safety as well as to improve its application. In clinical studies, scientific questions are answered in a controlled environment. This ensures the best possible results for both the users and patients.

Achieving superior resurfacing results with the Erbium:YAG laser
Jasin ME. Arch Facial Plast Surg 2002; 4:262-266

 

Facial skin resurfacing with the Erbium:YAG laser: new findings
Perez MI, Bank DE. Cosmetic Dermatology 1998;5:27-37

 

Laser peel: facial rejuvenation with a superficial erbium:YAG laser treatment
Khatri KA, Machado A, Magro C, Davenport S. J Cutaneous Laser Ther 2000;2:119-123

 

Comparison of erbium:YAG and carbon dioxide lasers in resurfacing of facial rhytids
Khatri KA, Ross V, Grevelink JM, Magro CM, Andersson RR. Arch Dermatol 1999;135(4):391-7

Professional therapy

With its extensive range of services, Asclepion sees itself as a competent partner for dermatologically and aesthetically oriented practices, institutes and clinics. Decide now for the treatment with the most advanced laser technology and discover a new world of professionalism and quality.

PRODUCTS