Subcision
TCA CROSS Peel
Microneedling
Subcision
TCA CROSS Peel
Treatments for acne scarring
Multiple treatment options are available at Craig Singer MD Dermatology for the treatment of acne scarring. As most scars are multifactorial, a combination approach is usually indicated.
CROSS: “Chemical reconstruction of skin scars” uses a high concentration of acid (either carbolic or TCA) to break down old scar tissue and regenerate new collagen to fill-in the scar. Cost: $300-$400 (depending upon number of areas to be treated).
Subcision©: “Subcutaneous incisionless surgery” uses a needle, Nokor, blunt tip cannula, or Taylor Liberator to release tethering bands that pull the skin down, thereby elevating the scar. Cost $650-$1250 (depending upon number of areas to be treated and instrument used).
Fractionated ablative laser: A wavelength of energy in microscopic columns vaporizes the tissue in what is known as “microscopic thermal zones.” The zones are directed through abnormal scarred collagen. The body then naturally repairs these zones with newly regenerated collagen and elastic fibers. Cost is $450-$550 (depending on extent of involvement)
Microneedling: uses an automated device to break horizontal bands of collagen, leading to the release of growth factors and production of new collagen. Cost $250/session
Vivace RF Microneedling: Vivace is an FDA cleared device that uses radiofrequency to heat the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin production. Cost: $550 session
Peels: soften appearance of new scars by regenerating a fresh layer of skin. Cost varies depending upon type of peel.
532 KTP laser/IPL: lightens red acne scars by targeting hemoglobin in the skin and helps regenerate a mild amount of collagen. $250/session
Fillers: injected into rolling and atrophic scar to elevate the surface and contour. Cost: $450 for 1/2 syringe of Juvederm Vollure
Punch excision/elevation: surgical technique to remove a tiny scar or elevate a box car scar. Cost: $150/excision. Discount applied for multiple scars.
Most people need 2-4 sessions of combination treatments to achieve results.
We offer an “acne trio” appointment to combine multiple treatment modalities in the same session.
Available treatment options at Craig Singer MD Dermatology
| Ice Pick Scars | • CROSS using either Carbolic acid or TCA • Punch excision |
| Rolling Scars | • Subcision • Vivace RFMN • Filler • Fractionated Ablative Erbium 2940 |
| Box Car Scars | • CROSS (deep boxcar) • Fractionated Ablative Erbium 2940 • Vivace RFMN • Pen Microneedling • Chemical Peels |
| Atrophic Scars | • Fillers • Excision |
| Red Scars | • 532 KTP laser/IPL |
Sources
A Combination Approach to Treating Acne Scars in All Skin Types: Carbolic Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars, Blunt Bi-level Cannula Subcision, and Microneedling-A Case Series. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020 May;13(5):19-23. Epub 2020 May 1.
Acne scarring: a classification system and review of treatment option C I Jacob 1, J S Dover, M S Kaminer J Am Acad Dermatol. 2001 Jul;45(1):109-17.
Combined to treatment of rolling acne scars and ethnic skin using extensive subcision, trichloracetic acid peel, and fractional ablative erbium laser. Mark E. Taylor, MD, Dermatologic Surgery April 2021 volume 47 #4.
