Acne Scarring

Acne scarring develops as a result of inflammation and structural damage to the skin during active acne, leading to permanent changes in collagen architecture. Unlike other types of scarring, acne scars are caused by loss, distortion or abnormal repair of dermal tissue, which is why they require a specific and targeted treatment approach.

Acne scarring may present as indented, uneven or texturally irregular skin, and can persist long after active acne has resolved. The severity and pattern of scarring varies between individuals and is influenced by acne severity, duration, genetics, inflammation, skin type and previous treatments.

Laser acne scar revision using the Alma Hybrid platform focuses on remodelling damaged collagen, stimulating new collagen formation and improving overall skin texture, rather than complete scar removal.

Types of Acne Scars Commonly Assessed and Treated

During consultation, acne scars are assessed and classified, as different scar types respond differently to treatment. Common acne scar types include:

• Ice pick scars – narrow, deep scars extending into the dermis
• Boxcar scars – wider, well-defined depressions
• Rolling scars – broad, shallow depressions caused by fibrous tethering

Accurate scar classification is essential to selecting the appropriate treatment depth, density and modality.

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How Laser Acne Scar Revision Works

The Alma Hybrid platform combines ablative fractional CO₂ laser energy with non-ablative 1570 nm laser energy, allowing treatment to be tailored to both surface texture irregularities and deeper dermal scarring.

Laser acne scar revision works by:

• Creating controlled micro-injury within scarred tissue
• Breaking down abnormal collagen fibres
• Stimulating new collagen production
• Improving dermal density and skin texture
• Reducing the appearance of scar depth and unevenness

Treatment parameters can be adjusted based on scar type, depth, skin type and downtime tolerance. In some cases, a staged or combination approach may be recommended.

Acne scar revision may be performed as a standalone, scar-focused treatment, or in combination with full-face laser rejuvenation, with higher treatment density and depth selectively applied to areas of scarring.
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‍Consultation & Assessment

Every acne scar revision treatment begins with a comprehensive medical and skin assessment. During consultation, Dr Brandon evaluates:

• Type, depth and distribution of acne scars
• Skin thickness and elasticity
• Pigmentation risk and melanin response
• History of active acne or inflammation
• Previous acne and scar treatments
• Medical history and healing capacity
• Lifestyle factors and sun exposure
• Expectations and tolerance for downtime

Active acne may need to be stabilised before scar revision is undertaken.

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What to Expect During Treatment

Prior to treatment, topical anaesthetic or local numbing may be used depending on treatment depth and coverage.

Laser energy is delivered in a controlled, fractional pattern across the affected areas. Treatment time varies depending on the extent of scarring, but most sessions are completed within 30–60 minutes.

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Downtime & Recovery

Downtime varies depending on treatment intensity and scar severity. Patients may experience:

• Redness and swelling
• Temporary darkening or lightening of treated areas
• Crusting or flaking
• Sensitivity during healing

Recovery typically ranges from 3 to 7 days, though deeper treatments may require longer healing periods. Collagen remodelling continues for several months following treatment.

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Results & Treatment Course

Acne scar revision is a gradual, progressive process. Improvements may include:

• Smoother skin texture
• Reduced scar depth and visibility
• Improved skin uniformity
• Enhanced overall skin quality

Most patients require a series of treatments to achieve meaningful improvement. The number and spacing of sessions depend on scar type, severity and individual skin response.

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What Makes the Alma Hybrid Laser Different

Unlike traditional laser devices that rely on a single wavelength, the Alma Hybrid integrates:

• Ablative fractional CO₂ laser – creates controlled microscopic treatment zones to stimulate strong collagen remodelling and resurfacing
• Non-ablative 1570 nm laser – delivers thermal energy into the deeper dermis without damaging the surface

This allows treatments to be performed in ablative mode, non-ablative mode or true hybrid mode, depending on clinical indication. Depth, density and energy delivery can all be precisely adjusted, making Alma Hybrid suitable for everything from light skin refreshing to deeper scar and texture correction.

What to Expect During Treatment

Prior to treatment, topical anaesthetic or local numbing may be used where appropriate. The laser is then applied in a controlled, fractional pattern across the targeted areas.

The dual-laser approach allows:

• Superficial epidermal resurfacing for texture and pigment
• Deep dermal heating for collagen remodelling and tightening in the same session

Treatment duration varies depending on the area treated and the depth of resurfacing required. Most patients are in and out within one hour.

Safety & Suitability

Alma Hybrid laser resurfacing is a medical procedure and carries risks, including but not limited to:

• Prolonged redness
• Pigmentary changes
• Infection
• Scarring (rare)
• Delayed healing
• Reactivation of herpes simplex in susceptible individuals

Patients with the following require special consideration and may not be suitable:

• Active skin infections
• Certain pigmentary disorders
• Recent isotretinoin use
• History of abnormal scarring
• Poor wound healing disorders

Alma Hybrid treatments with Dr Brandon are delivered within a doctor-led, anatomy-driven and conservative framework, prioritising:

• Skin health over trends
• Biological response over surface change
• Long-term skin integrity over short-term cosmetic effect
• Individualised treatment planning over protocols