Acne scars can be frustrating and impact your self-confidence, but laser treatments offer a promising solution. If you’re considering laser acne scar removal, you might wonder, "Does it hurt?" This blog will walk you through what to expect during and after the procedure, including the sensation, recovery, and results.
Understanding Laser Acne Scar Removal
Laser acne scar removal uses focused light therapy to target and break down scar tissue, encouraging the growth of new, healthy skin. The most common types of lasers used for acne scar removal are:
Ablative Lasers (e.g. CO2, Erbium YAG): These lasers remove the skin's top layers, promoting smoother skin regeneration.
Non-Ablative Lasers (e.g. Nd, Fraxel): These stimulate collagen production without removing layers of skin.
Does Laser Acne Scar Removal Hurt?
The level of discomfort during laser acne scar removal can vary depending on several factors, including your pain tolerance, the type of laser used, and the depth of the scars being treated.
During the Procedure: Most patients describe the sensation during the procedure as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Ablative lasers, which are more intense, can cause more discomfort than non-ablative lasers. However, topical anaesthetics are usually applied before the procedure to minimise pain, making the process more manageable.
Pain Scale: On a scale of 1 to 10, where ten is the most painful, patients often rate the discomfort around 4 to 6. Non-ablative treatments are less painful, often rated between 2 and 4.
After the Procedure: Post-treatment discomfort varies but can include a sunburn-like sensation, redness, and swelling. Depending on the intensity of the treatment, these effects typically subside within a few days to a week.
Here’s a table summarising the expected pain levels for different types of laser treatments:
Type of Laser | Pain Level During | Pain Level After | Recovery Time |
Ablative (CO2, Erbium) | Moderate to High | Moderate | 7-14 days |
Non-Ablative (Nd , Fraxel) | Low to Moderate | Low to Moderate | 3-7 days |
What to Expect After the Procedure
Immediate Aftercare: Your skin may feel warm and sensitive after the procedure. Your dermatologist will likely recommend soothing ointment and avoiding direct sun exposure.
Redness and Swelling: It’s normal to experience redness and swelling for a few days post-treatment. This is part of the healing process as your skin regenerates.
Peeling and Crusting: Ablative lasers might cause the skin to peel or crust as it heals. Non-ablative treatments typically have less downtime.
Results: Initial results can be seen after a few weeks as the skin begins to heal, but full results typically take a few months to become visible as collagen rebuilds and scars fade.
Call to Action
Ready to take the next step towards smoother, scar-free skin? Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our expert dermatologists and determine which laser treatment is right for you. Let us help you regain your confidence with personalized care tailored to your unique needs.