Scarring

Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after skin tissue has been damaged. Scars form when the dermis (the deep, thick layer of skin) is injured. The body creates new collagen fibers to mend the damage, resulting in a scar. Scars can vary in appearance, from flat and pale to raised and discolored.

Keloids are a type of raised scar that grows beyond the boundaries of the original wound, often appearing thick and lumpy. Acne scars are another common type of scarring resulting from severe acne that damages the skin and underlying tissue.

At Key Laser Institute, we understand that scarring, whether from injury, surgery, or acne, can significantly impact one’s self-confidence and overall appearance.

Scars and keloids can be challenging to manage, but our expert team offers a variety of advanced treatments designed to reduce and improve the appearance of scars. With our innovative and top-of-the-line technology and personalized care, we are committed to helping you achieve smoother, more even skin. Schedule an appointment for your non-laser and laser scar removal in Portland, Oregon today.

Laser Treatment Options for Scarring

Lasers are one of the best noninvasive treatments available for acne scarring. This form of treatment is designed to break up the scars at deeper levels—the layers of the skin that aren’t visible.

At Key Laser Institute, we employ only the latest technology lasers to provide patients with safe care with guaranteed results. Our custom treatment plans for your laser scar removal in Portland, Oregon, may involve one or more of the following lasers.

Ultraclear

UltraClear is an advanced treatment that uses precise laser technology to target and improve the appearance of scars. This method is highly effective for scars and keloids, promoting smoother and clearer skin with minimal downtime.

UltraClear incorporates two revolutionary 3DMIRACL® and 3DIntelliPulse® technologies to redefine precision laser energy control and skin rejuvenation techniques, resulting in superior results and increased patient safety. From a light laser peel to deep collagen remodeling, UltraClear delivers effective treatment for scar and keloid removal with minimal downtime and increased patient comfort.

Fraxel

Fraxel is a minimally invasive laser treatment designed to resurface the skin by creating controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the body’s natural healing process. This treatment effectively reduces the appearance of scars, including acne scars and keloids, by encouraging the production of new, healthy skin cells.

The Fraxel laser takes a unique approach to modern ablative lasers, which remove the upper and lower levels of the skin impacted by acne or facial scarring. By using fractional light therapy to heal the damaged layers of the skin instead of destroying them, the Fraxel laser targets specific areas and skin depths to treat acne scars without affecting the surrounding layers of tissues.

Fraxel lasers provide all the advantages of modern lasers while limiting potential side effects.

Halo

Halo is a hybrid fractional laser that combines two wavelengths to treat acne scars. A nonablative laser heats columns of collagen deep in the skin, tightening and improving skin texture, while an ablative laser removes the top layer of skin to an exact depth. Together, this dual approach promotes significant skin rejuvenation, improving the appearance of acne scars with minimal downtime.

Since Halo is a fractional treatment, only a fraction of the skin is treated each time. The laser beam of this treatment is split into tiny microscopic columns of the ablative laser’s wavelength (2940 nm) and the non-ablative laser’s wavelength (1470 nm). Both lasers fire simultaneously, treating skin at the same time.

Having a Halo laser treatment is a little like having two different laser treatments simultaneously. It effectively retextures skin, promotes new cell growth, and diminishes the look and feel of acne and facial scars.

Non-Laser Treatment Options for Acne Scarring

PRP

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves using the patient’s blood, which is processed to concentrate the platelets and growth factors. When reintroduced to the skin, PRP stimulates healing and collagen production, effectively reducing the appearance of acne scars.

Key Laser Institute offers PRP microneedling and PRP face masks to be used after laser treatment to increase treatment efficacy and promote natural healing.

Kenalog

Kenalog injections are used to treat keloids and hypertrophic scars. This brand-name corticosteroid reduces inflammation and helps flatten and soften raised scars, making them less noticeable over time.

During treatment, 10 to 40 milligrams of triamcinolone acetonide are injected into scars to drastically reduce inflammation and collagen degradation. Over time, the scarring reduces in size, height, and appearance. Kenalog is often considered a first-in-line treatment for keloid scars, meaning we may try this approach before turning to other treatment methods for enhanced improvement.

TCA Cross

TCA Cross (Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars) is a specialized chemical peel technique that targets individual acne scars.

Unlike other scar removal treatment options like lasers, micro-needling, or injections, TCA Cross uses a strong chemical acid peel to chemically reconstruct skin affected by scarring. The treatment induces collagen production and improves skin texture, making acne scars less visible.

This non-laser scar removal treatment is especially effective at treating certain acne scars, such as ice-pick or box scars.

What Treatment Looks Like

Before Your Treatment for Scarring

Before proceeding with your scar removal treatment at Key Laser Institute, you will undergo a comprehensive pre-treatment consultation with one of our qualified dermatologists or skincare specialists. Our assessment will analyze your skin’s condition, the severity of your scars, and any underlying conditions that may affect treatment, allowing for a fully tailored treatment plan. We’ll also want to know your treatment goals, medical history, and any medications you are currently taking.

It may seem like a lot, but our attentiveness to details has helped us build a reputation for guaranteed results and personalized care!

Pre-treatment instructions will include avoiding sun exposure and discontinuing certain skincare products like retinol several days before your scheduled treatment. We prefer clients to arrive ready for treatment, hydrated, well-rested, and with a clean, makeup-free face.

During Your Treatment for Scarring

The treatment process varies depending on the chosen method. All the non-laser and laser scar removal treatments we provide to our Portland patients are performed in our office.

We begin each procedure by cleansing the skin and applying a numbing cream if necessary. Most of our lasers incorporate cooling technology to minimize pain and increase comfort. However, you may still experience slight burning sensations during treatment.

Each of our treatment sessions typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area, the number of areas being treated, and the chosen treatment method.

After Your Treatment for Scarring

After the treatment, you may experience mild redness, swelling, or a sensation similar to a mild sunburn.

These side effects are temporary and usually subside within a few days. More noticeable side effects, like bruising or redness, will disappear within a week or two. It is crucial to follow our post-treatment care instructions, which may include:

Avoiding direct sunlight
Using gentle skincare products
Applying sunscreen diligently to protect the treated areas

FAQs About Laser Scar Removal in Portland, Oregon

You may have questions about laser scar removal in Portland, Oregon. We understand and are happy to answer any questions you may have. Our only question is how we can make your experience comfortable.

Will Laser Treatment Completely Remove My Scars?

While scars cannot be removed entirely, laser therapy and other treatment options can significantly diminish their appearance while stimulating new skin growth, which will continue to replace the scar tissue over time.

How Quickly Will I See Results from Scar Removal Treatment?

It may take several sessions, spaced weeks to months apart, to see noticeable scar improvement. Our treatment options for acne scarring are not quick fixes, but we promise — the results are worth the wait.

Depending on your treatment, it may take some time for the skin to gradually reheal, resurfacing scars and growing new skin over the affected area.

Key Laser Institute prioritizes patient education and understanding. We want patients to feel involved and informed of their treatment options and care timelines. Before proceeding with your treatment, we’ll walk you through potential outcomes and check your progress afterward.

How Many Sessions Will I Need To Remove My Scars?

How many sessions you may need will depend on:

The extent of your scarring
The size of the area treated
The treatment method
How well your skin responds to treatment

Some patients see results sooner and with fewer sessions than others. We always adjust our treatment courses for the best outcomes. Lasers are designed to be long-term solutions for skin resurfacing, rejuvenation, and scar removal, which means you may not see results until after a few sessions and some time.

Is Laser Treatment Suitable for All Skin Types?

Laser treatments are generally safe for all skin types and textures, but there are some things to consider. Candidates with darker skin tones may need to review other treatment options since melanated skin may absorb more energy from the laser, potentially leading to more severe side effects, such as skin darkening or blisters.

Key Laser Institute is an inclusive practice that prioritizes patient safety. If you are not an ideal candidate for certain laser therapies, we will work with you on other options to effectively treat your scarring without significant risk.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Laser Scar Removal Treatments?

While laser treatments effectively diminish the appearance of scarring, this treatment type isn’t right for everyone. During your initial consultation at Key Laser Institute, we’ll review your medical history, assess your skin, and address your concerns to determine whether laser treatment is the best option for your scarring.

Portland laser therapy for scar removal is typically not recommended for those who:

Are prone to scarring
Are pregnant
Experience light sensitivity
Have a diagnosed blood-clotting disorder
Have insulin-dependent diabetes
Routinely experience cold sores (laser treatment could exacerbate them)
Currently take aspirin medication or other blood thinners (may increase the risk of post-procedural bruising)
Are prescribed acne medicines containing isotretinoin (may lead to scarring and poor healing)

Restore Your Skin With Safe and Effective Laser Scar Removal Treatment in Portland

If you are ready to address scarring and achieve smoother, more even skin, schedule a consultation with Key Laser Institute today. We provide state-of-the-art non-laser and laser scar removal in Portland, Oregon.

We understand that scarring can limit self-esteem, overall appearance, and life experience. Our expert team is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. Fill out our online contact form to book your appointment and take the first step toward confident, flawless skin.