Acne Scar Treatment
Q & A

What is acne?

Acne is a very common skin condition that occurs when the pores of the skin get clogged with oil and dead skin, creating a localized infection. Signs of acne are red, swollen, and tender bumps on the surface of the skin. Whiteheads, blackheads, and more severe pus-filled abscesses can also be present.

Teens and women are commonly affected because hormones play a key role in the underlying causes of acne; however, anyone of any age can have acne. Acne most commonly appears on the:

• Face
• Neck
• Back
• Forehead
• Shoulders

There may be many contributing factors to the appearance of acne, including diet, medications, and stress. Specialists believe the main underlying causes of acne are:

• Excess oil production
• Clogged hair follicles
• Bacteria
• Hormones

While acne can be difficult to control, it can be treated. Despite this, an estimated 20 million Americans are affected by lasting acne scars.

What causes acne scars?

When acne is severe, it can affect multiple layers of the skin. Permanent scars can form when deep layers of tissue are damaged. These can be due to too much or not enough collagen being produced during the healing process.

Scarring can be embarrassing, especially as you age, but diminishing the appearance of acne scars is possible at Altoona Laser with PicoSure laser treatments.

How can PicoSure help improve acne scars?

Altoona Laser is proud to offer PicoSure, the only FDA-approved laser treatment for removal of acne scars. This revolutionary method uses high-energy waves and a unique pressure delivery system to break apart the scar tissue.

Acne scar tissue is diminished to tiny particles, which are then absorbed by the body. This decreases the appearance of acne scars, using the body’s natural healing ability.

As part of your initial consultation, you and your PicoSure technician determine the number of treatment sessions that are needed to get the best results possible. Treatments last around 10 minutes and can be repeated every 6-8 weeks. Several treatments are most likely needed, depending on the location and severity of your acne scarring.