Fine focused laser resurfacing for acne scars.
An Erbium:YAG laser that resurfaces with precise, layer-by-layer ablation to blend boxcar and rolling scars into the surrounding skin.
With the PS03 handpiece, about 60% ablation is applied to the edges of boxcar scars as well as uneven surfaces of rolling acne scars. The purpose is to blend the edges of scars into the normal surrounding skin. We intentionally do not use 100% ablation in order to create a smooth transition from scar to normal skin. This type of acne scar treatment is called “fine focused laser” or “tangential resurfacing.” The video on this page demonstrates our technique.
Watch
Our fine focused laser (tangential resurfacing) technique.
In addition, we utilize the FS01 handpiece for deep fractional ablation of boxcar and rolling scars. Erbium fractional ablation is felt to be safe in skin of color and has been tested in clinical trials in patients with darker skin types. Using “Turbo 6 mode”, we can create 600um deep channels in the skin. Both of these hand pieces are often used together on the same patient, during the same visit, to address the variation of individual acne scars.
The main concern when treating acne scars in skin of color is the risk for hyperpigmentation. This is a real risk; however, there are a couple things to remember:
First, all hyperpigmentation will eventually resolve. If hyperpigmentation starts to develop, we will act aggressively to control it.
Second, if the patient promises to stay indoors for the first 7 to 10 days after treatment AND promises to wear a wide brimmed hat, shoulder to shoulder AND 50 SPF sunscreen AND avoid direct sun exposure until all redness from the treatment is resolved (about 2 months), the risk for hyperpigmentation is extremely low. We estimate this risk of hyperpigmentation at about 10%.
In Dr. Mark Taylor’s study cited below, no patient with skin of color developed significant hyperpigmentation using Fotona’s fractional ablative erbium laser. In our office, we use the same protocol as in the study, including fine focused laser.
With the PS03 handpiece, about 60% ablation is applied to the edges of boxcar scars and the uneven surfaces of rolling acne scars to blend the edges into the normal surrounding skin. We intentionally do not use 100% ablation, in order to create a smooth transition from scar to normal skin. This technique is also called tangential resurfacing.
Erbium fractional ablation is felt to be safe in skin of color and has been tested in clinical trials in patients with darker skin types. In Dr. Mark Taylor’s study, no patient with skin of color developed significant hyperpigmentation using fractional ablative erbium laser. In our office we use the same protocol, including fine focused laser.
Yes. The PS03 (fine focused) and FS01 (deep fractional) handpieces are often used together on the same patient, during the same visit, to address the variation of individual acne scars. Using Turbo 6 mode, the FS01 can create 600um deep channels in the skin.
Combined Treatment of Rolling Acne Scars in Ethnic Skin Using Extensive Subcision, Trichloracetic Acid Peel, and Fractional Ablative Erbium Laser. Mark B Taylor, Neža Koron. Dermatologic Surgery 2021 Apr 1;47(4):496-499.
Based on Google reviews
Recognized dermatologist
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.
Dermatologist
Helped look their best
