- Defect Oriented Therapy
Acne Scarring
A combination approach to acne scar correction
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. We offer an “acne trio” appointment to combine multiple treatment modalities in the same session. Most people need 2 to 4 sessions of combination treatments to achieve results.
Treatments for acne scarring
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: $350 to $450
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 $1000-$1500 (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 $1000 (depending on extent of involvement). Lumenis Ultrapulse, Deka CO2, Fotona sp Dynamis.
Full Ablation
Full ablation is used under several situations: lowering and blending the edges of shallow boxcar scars, full ablation and epithelialization of tiny acne pits that are less than 1 mm in diameter, and full ablation over an area of severe continuous scarring. This is performed using either the Fotona SP Dynamis Erbium laser or Lumenis Ultra Pulse CO2 laser.
Microneedling
Uses an automated device to break horizontal bands of collagen, leading to the release of growth factors and production of new collagen.
Cost $275/session
Vivace RF Microneedling
Vivace is an FDA cleared device that uses radiofrequency to heat the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin production.
Cost: $600 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 scars to elevate the surface and contour.
Cost: $550 for 1/2 syringe of Juvederm Vollure
Punch excision / elevation
Surgical technique to remove a tiny scar or elevate a box car scar. Cost: $250/excision for first. Discount applied for multiple scars.
Linear surgical excision
Of larger acne scars.
Cost: $500 for first and $400 for second/third.
Watch
Acne scar treatments
Each treatment targets a specific type of scarring. Dr. Singer will design a customized combination plan at your consultation.
Comprehensive Acne Scar Treatment
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Deka SmartXide CO2 Laser
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing that rebuilds collagen in rolling and box car scars.
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Lumenis UltraPulse CO2
The gold-standard ablative CO2 laser for full and fractional scar resurfacing.
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Fotona for Acne Scars
Erbium laser for precise fractional and full ablation of acne scarring.
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Fractionated Ablative Laser
Microscopic thermal zones vaporize scarred collagen, triggering fresh collagen repair.
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TCA / Phenol CROSS Peel
High-concentration acid reconstructs ice pick and narrow box car scars from within.
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Subcision
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Vivace RF Microneedling
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Microneedling
Automated micro-channels break horizontal bands of collagen and release growth factors.
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Medium Depth Chemical Peeling
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Punch Excision
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Silicone Injections
Micro-droplet silicone lifts atrophic and rolling scars to restore skin contour.
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Choose by scar type
Different scar types respond to different treatments. Here is what Dr. Singer recommends for each.
Ice Pick Scars
Narrow pits less than 1mm and enlarged pores
- CROSS (carbolic acid or TCA)
- Punch excision
- Fotona 0.5mm full ablation
Rolling Scars
- Subcision
- Vivace RF Microneedling
- Filler
- Fotona fractionated ablative erbium 2940
- Deka CO2 fractionated ablative laser
- UltraPulse CO2
Box Car Scars
- TCA CROSS (narrow and box car)
- Fotona SP Dynamis Erbium or Lumenis UltraPulse CO2 full ablation
- Vivace RF Microneedling
- Pen microneedling
- Chemical Peels (Brody's Peel)
White 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. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020 May;13(5):19-23.
- Acne scarring: a classification system and review of treatment options. C I Jacob, J S Dover, M S Kaminer. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2001 Jul;45(1):109-17.
- Combined 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.
Acne scar treatment across metro Detroit
- Bingham Farms
- Birmingham
- Bloomfield Hills
- West Bloomfield
- Royal Oak
- Berkley
- Troy
- Farmington
- Shelby Township
- Novi
- Detroit
- Metro Detroit
Patient testimonials
4.9
Based on Google reviews
HOUR Detroit Top Doc
Recognized dermatologist
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About Craig Singer MD Dermatology
Located in Bingham Farms, Acne Center Of Michigan was founded by Dr. Craig Singer, a board-certified dermatologist.
We specialize in the treatment of acne and acne scarring, offering numerous therapeutic options tailored to each patient’s needs.
Dr. Singer experienced significant acne when he was in college and has personal experience with his teenage children’s acne as well. He has helped thousands of patients look their best.
Acne Center of Michigan offers the most advanced acne treatments, drawing from both traditional and alternative approaches. Dermatologists across the region refer their most complex acne-scar cases to Dr. Singer, and patients travel from across Michigan, neighboring states, and Canada for his care.
Board-Certified
Dermatologist
Thousands of patients
Helped look their best
