Neurotoxins

Neurotoxins are chemical signals that can alter the strength and excitability of neural connections. They bind to specific receptors or the neuron and thus block or weaken incoming signals. 

Botox vs. Daxxify

Botox and Daxxify are neurotoxin treatments that aim to reduce wrinkles and fine lines; they both work at the neuromuscular junction by inhibiting the release of the neuromodulator called acetylcholine. Normally, the nerves transmit an activation message to the muscle by releasing acetylcholine into the space between the nerve and the muscle. Blocking the release of this chemical neuromodulator results in failed muscle activation, causing paralysis or weakness.

Similarities and Differences

As neurotoxins, both of these injectables are skeletal muscle relaxants. As such, the two are similar in many ways. 

Both injectables are prescription only and have a similar profile regarding drug interactions – both are reported to have 24 major drug interactions and 90 moderate drug interactions. Similarly, neither Botox nor Daxxify has alcohol or food interactions. The two injectables can cause complications in individuals with dysphagia, respiratory and neuromuscular disorders, and infections. 

Despite the broadly similar drug profiles, Botox and Daxxify have some crucial differences, too. These distinctive traits determine the correct neurotoxin for your purposes and how long the results will last. 

Daxxify has abobotulinumtoxinA (ABO) as a base, while Botox uses onabotulinumtoxinA (ONA). The two injectables also use different stabilizers for botulin. Botox uses albumin, while Daxxify uses a peptide instead. 

Daxxify is also not recommended for patients with cardiovascular diseases, while Botox is advised against if the patient has UTI. 

Side Effects and Complications 

Both drugs’ side effects can range from mild to critical. The more severe side effects generally involve the toxin botulinum spreading beyond the intended area. Depending on the migration area, extent, and the patient’s medical history, the spread can cause critical and fatal issues.

Natural Looking Treatment Results For Crows Feet & Forehead Wrinkles

The early signs of crows feet and forehead wrinkles started to reveal themselves on this patient. Dr. U performed a Botox treatment to create the subtle improvements that she wanted.

Which one is right for you

Although both neurotoxins are relatively fast-acting, Daxxify provides more immediate results based on clinical trials. 

When considering which injectable to use, it’s also essential to consider the treatment area. Currently, Daxxify is only approved for treating frown (glabellar) lines, so if that’s your specific target area, Daxxify may be the better choice, assuming the claim of its effects lasting longer holds.

Botox has a much more comprehensive array of uses, including its off-label uses. Some of these uses include the treatment of jowls, frown lines, crows’ feet, smoker’s lines, gummy smiles, horizontal forehead lines,  horizontal neck lines, and more. 

Ultimately, choosing between these treatments depends on individual preferences and desired outcomes. Daxxify and Botox each have their advantages, so which one is better for you depends on your specific goals. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which injectable lasts longer?

The results’ length mainly depends on the patient’s metabolic rate and the stabilizer used in the injectable. Daxxify uses a peptide as a stabilizer instead of the human blood serum albumin used in Botox. The peptide makes botulin more stable, so the results typically last longer.

Are Daxxify side effects worse than Botox side effects?

Daxxify and Botox side effects are similar – potential bruising, headaches, and migration risk. 

References

1. Daxxify: Uses, dosage, side effects & warnings. Drugs.com. Accessed June 28, 2023. https://www.drugs.com/daxxify.html.

2. Onabotulinumtoxina Injection: Uses, side effects, interactions, pictures, warnings & dosing. WebMD. Accessed June 28, 2023. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-153463/onabotulinumtoxina-injection/details.

3. Rapaport L, Migala J, Petrarca M, Groth L, Lawler M, Haupt A. Daxxify: 8 things to know about the new Botox Alternative. EverydayHealth.com. Accessed June 28, 2023. https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-skin/fda-approves-daxxify-things-to-know-about-botox-alternative/.

The post Is Daxxify Better Than Botox? appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

The Best Dermal Filler Injection & Choosing From Three Types

Dr. U discusses the three basic categories of dermal fillers that are available to patients. These include:

1. Hyaluronic Acid (Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane, Belotero)
2. Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse)
3. Poly-L-Lactic (Sculptra)

How long do results of fillers like juvederm, radiesse, restylane last?

Dermal fillers can replenish lost volume or even improve the contour of the face. Dr. U discusses the approximate time frames they can be expected to last an…

Hyaluronic Acid As The Best Dermal Filler For Soft Tissue Volume – Selecting Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane or Belotero 

Why Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers are Best for Adding Soft Tissue Volume: Dr.U explains that hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance already found in our bodies, in areas like the skin and joints, among many others. The pharmaceutical products are manufactured using a sterile version of HA that comes from bacteria, not people or animals, to avoid inflammation and allergic reactions. This compound is considered sugar and has an exceptional ability to hold a large amount of water, often its weight giving it excellent lubricating properties. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane, and Belotero blend in seamlessly as they hydrate the skin and its soft tissue surroundings. 

Each hyaluronic acid filler brand (Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane, or Belotero) has different consistencies allowing them to create desired results for specific applications. 

Hyaluronic acid is the best dermal filler for depressed areas that require more volume to regain a youthful look. It is ideal for early or milder forms of nasolabial folds around the nose and mouth. HA fillers are popular for lip augmentation as well.

Brief Description of Each Hyaluronic Acid Filler Brand: Juvederm and Belotero can be used for filling and adding subtle levels of volume. Belotero, however, has been cross-linked to be a continuous substance that is ideal for filling fine lines closer to the skin’s surface. The nature of Juvederm is a particulate gel suspension. Light passing through it will produce a bluish discoloration through the skin (i.e., the Tyndall effect). With Belotero’s unique configuration, this will not occur. Juvederm cannot be used for superficial applications. It needs to be injected much deeper below the skin to avoid clumping and the Tyndall effect.

Restylane and Perlane are firmer, more particulate, and much thicker in viscosity. These HA injectables are better suited for areas of the face that need significant lifting and volume, such as deep creases. They can also be sculpted to a moderate extent.

The Best Dermal Filler Injection for Laugh Lines and Facial Contouring

What is The Best Dermal Filler for Laugh Lines & Facial Contouring: Radiesse is a dermal filler made of tiny calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres. Since calcium exists in our bones, its properties offer greater firmness. The particles within the injection gel will gather together tightly or diffuse to mimic its surrounding tissue. This makes it possible to use Radiesse for various applications, including non-surgical facial contouring on the nose, cheeks, and chin. Treatments with Radiesse often last 9-12 months, but actual timelines may vary depending on how fast individuals metabolize the filler.

What Type of Patients are Radiesse Dermal Fillers Best For: Many patients with moderate to more severe forms of laugh lines (i.e., nasolabial folds around the nose and mouth) can benefit from injections with this product. Besides laugh lines, Radiesse is also the best dermal filler for non-surgical jowl lifts. 

What is The Best Dermal Filler for Under The Eyes?

Best Dermal Filler of Eye Wrinkling: One of the most common cosmetic issues that men and women seek to address is wrinkling and the appearance of darkness beneath the eyes. However, the skin in this area is very thin and delicate. Due to this characteristic, it is highly susceptible to the Tyndall effect. 

Since Radiesse is a dermal filler made of a white substance, it will not result in a bluish discoloration under the eyes. It is ideal for reducing the look of shadows or darkness. Also, since it can be shaped, Radiesse offers an effective solution for mild forms of under-eye bags.

Sculptra: The Best Dermal Filler for Long-Term Results

Why Sculptra is the Best Dermal Filler for Long-Term Results: As Dr. U explains, Sculptra is made of the same material as water-soluble sutures. This substance is known as Poly-L-Lactic. Since it is a synthetic substance, the body will not metabolize it as quickly as hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxyapatite. Results produced with the Sculptra dermal filler will last up to two years. 

Sculptra is used for restoring facial volume. It helps fill deep depressions and creases like laugh lines. Its original intent was to help patients struggling with facial lipoatrophy. This condition is often seen in patients with AIDS or HIV. It is caused by facial fat tissue wasting away.

To speak to Dr. U about getting treated with dermal fillers, sign up below for a complimentary consultation.

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Frequently Asked Questions for Los Angeles Patients – Choosing the Best Dermal Filler

What is the best dermal filler for the temple area?

The most common type of wrinkle in the temple area is crow’s feet lines. These wrinkles emanate like branches from the outer corners of the eyes. They are caused by muscle contractions that crease the overlying skin. Initially, crow’s feet wrinkles are only visible when the individual smiles or laughs. Over time, the lines become permanently etched on the skin’s surface. 

Some patients will choose Botox or Dysport to relax the muscles around the eyes. Others may choose to fill in the etched creases that appear when the face is at rest. Since Belotero is specially formulated for fine lines, this is an excellent dermal filler for these types of crow’s feet wrinkles.

Can dermal fillers cause toxic reactions? 

Dermal fillers are generally safe as long as qualified physicians use them. These include cosmetic dermatologists, facial plastic surgeons, plastic surgeons, and oculoplastic surgeons. Like all other drugs, they may incur side effects. If you are concerned about unwanted reactions, talk to your doctor about the individual likelihood of experiencing these issues. 

How long do hyaluronic acid fillers last? 

Hyaluronic acid fillers tend to last anywhere between six to eighteen months. Because they are made of sugar molecules, the body will metabolize this filler much faster than Radiesse or Sculptra. Individuals will differ in terms of how fast this will occur. Also, the placement of the injection affects its longevity. More active areas of the face (e.g., lips) will experience shorter timeframes than less mobile regions, such as the nasolabial folds.

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Further Reading

See how this young woman was able to overcome mild protrusions and darkness beneath her eyes with Radiesse

Learn more about the calcium hydroxyapatite filler on plasticsurgery.org 

Read more about Sculptra, its basic applications, and information about clinical trials for this product

The post What is the Best Dermal Filler? Dr. U Discusses Choosing the Best Dermal Filler appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Laser Tattoo Removal for El Segundo Patients with Laser Therapy

To make an appointment with Dr. Umar, call FineTouch Dermatology at (310) 318-1500 or (877) 337-6424. To ask Dr. Umar a question, email drumar@finetouchderma…

Tattoo Statistics

A Harris poll discovered that a much greater percentage of Millennials (i.e. almost half at 47%) have at least one tattoo, compared to previous generations.

• Generation X (36%)
• Baby Boomers (13%)

At the same time, the percentage of people who regret getting them has increased from 14% to 23% between 2012 and 2015. In more recent years, statistics show that in the United States and Australia between 8-27% of people express regret (i.e. one or more).

While there are some people who love their tattoos for the rest of their lives, others feel their regret as early as the next day.  For these individuals, their decision was spontaneous, according to Advance Dermatology. 21% report feeling regret after a year. And for 36%, several years went by before they decided they no longer wanted their tattoo(s). 5% of the subjects in this study said that they took several years to plan and decide on their tattoos. [1]

So what are the top reasons for having a change in heart?

• the attitude that he/she was too young at the time they had their tattoo done.
• changes in lifestyle, personality, and attitudes about their appearance.
• breaking up with a significant other whose name had been tattooed on their body
• poor execution of the tattoo
• lack of meaning

Fortunately, laser tattoo removal offers a way to ease these feelings of regret, helping men and women start a new lease on life.

How Are Tattoos Removed With Laser?

Dr. U explains that lasers emit energy in the form of highly concentrated light energy. Each laser will have a single wavelength frequency. This property is used to perform a specific job (e.g., getting rid of a particular color). A laser for tattoo removal works by breaking up tattoo pigment into smaller pieces.   White blood cells of the body’s immune system can then carry the fragments away from the skin’s surface.

Providers will choose a laser-based on the ink color. The patient’s skin color is another factor.

Some tattoo designs are more resistant to laser treatment. They will need more sessions.

Q-Switch Laser Tattoo Removal

Q-switch lasers deliver laser energy in short bursts or pulses to shatter the ink. Providers will need to adjust the settings based on the needs of individual patients. These parameters include:

Pulse duration

The duration of the pulse has to do with how long each burst of energy lasts. The shorter the pulse is, the greater the impact it will have on the pigment particle.

Spot size

Spot size is a metric that defines the beam’s width. A larger diameter allows the laser to reach deeper layers in the skin.

Fluence

Fluence is the amount of energy delivered per square centimeter of skin surface area.

Multi-Colored Tattoo Removal With Laser

One laser is usually used for a specific color. Laser treatment on tattoos with multiple colors will require the use of dye modules. These are separate units attached to the laser system. They act as filters to change an existing wavelength by increasing or decreasing it.

How Many Sessions Will You Need For a Successful Tattoo Removal with Laser

Some tattoo designs are easier to address than others. The number of sessions needed usually depends on the following factors.

Ink Colors Used

Darker colors absorb laser energy more readily than lighter colors. This makes them easier to shatter and remove.

If you would like to consult Dr. Umar about tattoo removal, use the button below for a free online consultation.

Free Skin Consultation

Anatomical Placement of the Tattoo

Some parts of the body have more blood vessels in a given area. Examples include the body’s central column, which consists of the torso, neck, head, and shoulders. A greater number of blood vessels will be able to transport white blood cells macrophages. These are needed to engulf the smaller tattoo particles and carry them away.

The extremities (i.e., arms, wrists, hands, thighs, legs, ankles, and feet) will have fewer blood vessels. Generally, it is more difficult to get rid of tattoos in these areas.

Amount of Ink Used

When more ink is used to create a tattoo, more sessions are needed to remove it.

This applies to larger-sized tattoos, highly saturated (i.e., richly colored designs), and layering when one tattoo is placed on top of another.

Presence of Scarring

Scar tissue is made of collagen fibers. When scarring develops in a tattoo region, pigment particles may become entangled in the collagen fibers and become less accessible to the laser. The patient will, therefore, need more sessions.

Age of the Tattoo

Over time, tattoo particles will migrate to deeper skin layers. Older tattoos will require a greater number of sessions.

Smoking

Long-term smokers will have weaker immune systems. These patients will need more sessions to achieve a successful tattoo removal with a laser.

Skin Type

Ethnic individuals tend to have more melanin in their skin. This natural pigment easily absorbs laser energy which puts the skin at higher risk for overheating. For safety reasons, patients with darker skin tones will need more laser sessions.

Do DIY Tattoo Removal Methods Work?

Many products are being marketed to individuals who wish to become free of their tattoos. They usually claim to make tattoos less noticeable instead of removing them completely.

Should You Buy a Tattoo Removal Gel?

DIY tattoo removal products like gels and creams have a high potential for doing more harm than good. Various forms of risks include:

• permanent scars
• pain
• burning
• itching
• bruising
• swelling
• scabs
• infection
• discoloration

Medical experts caution individuals to avoid using home tattoo removal products. These approaches may lead to irreversible damage. Using a tattoo removal with laser, it is possible to control the depth of the beam. However, the action of chemicals below the skin’s surface is much more unpredictable.

If you would like to consult Dr. Umar about tattoo removal, use the button below for a free online consultation.

Free Skin Consultation

References

1. Elderton, J., Jono Elderton Writer, Nash, E., Hanstad, D., Dale Hanstad Writer, Petty, M. J., & Michael John Petty Writer. (2021, January 14). Tattoo Regret Statistics: What Percentage of People Regret Their Tattoos? Next Luxury. https://nextluxury.com/mens-style-and-fashion/tattoo-regret-by-the-numbers/.

The post How Does Tattoo Removal with Laser Work? appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

How long do results of fillers like juvederm, radiesse, restylane last?

Dermal fillers can replenish lost volume or even improve the contour of the face. Dr. U discusses the approximate time frames they can be expected to last an…

Different Types of Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are made of different substance types. For example, some are made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring sugar in the body that can hold large amounts of water. However, drug manufacturers use a purified form of HA which they first derive from bacteria. These include:

• Juvederm
• Restylane

Both products are ideal for softer areas of the face.

A dermal filler called Radiesse is made of calcium hydroxylapatite. Because it offers different levels of firmness, it is a popular choice for non-surgical facial contouring and improving the undereye area.

Sculptra is made of a synthetic material called poly-L-lactic. It is used to treat deep, severe wrinkles.

How Long Do Injectable Fillers Last?

The duration of dermal fillers usually follow the standard, average time frames provided by the manufacturer.

Juvederm

The dermal filler Juvederm can last anywhere from 6-12 months, depending on which formulation is used. Juvederm Ultra usually lasts 6-9 months. And Juvederm Ultra Plus lasts 9-12 months

Restylane

Restylane treatments typically last 6-12 months, on average.

Radiesse

Radiesse injections can last anywhere from 9-12 months.

Sculptra

Sculptra treatments may last up to 2 years.

Los Angeles Dermatologist, Dr. Umar Answers the Question, How Often Should You Get Fillers?

According to Dr. Umar, most patients find that their dermal fillers actually follow the average time frames, listed above. However, others may find that their treatments last longer or shorter than what is specified by the manufacturer. This really depends on how fast the patient’s body metabolizes the product. Other factors that can influence the duration of effect include use of medications, exercise, and dermal filler injections into dynamically mobile areas.

At first, individuals can schedule their dermal filler treatments based on the standard intervals. But later, once they learn how long these products actually last in their bodies, they can rely on these time frames instead.

If you are in the Los Angeles area and would like to speak to Dr. Umar about using dermal fillers for a particular area of concern, you may schedule a complimentary consulation by clicking the button below:

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Can a split earlobe heal itself? For the question of whether or not a split earlobe repair will heal itself, watch the video below to find out what Dr. Umar has to say about this condition and treatment options available.

How are torn ear lobes treated?

Earlobes can be torn from wearing heavy earrings. Fortunately, they can be fixed through surgery. Dr. U discusses how this can be achieved as well as ways to…

Why Did My Earlobe Split in Half?

Split Earlobe Repair Near Me: Many people who develop torn earlobes wonder why they tear in the first place. As Dr. Umar explains in the video above, a frequent cause of torn earlobes is the use of earrings, particularly those that are unusually heavy in weight. Individuals with weak earlobes can also be susceptible to earlobe tearing over time.

Additionally, earlobes can tear in certain situations when earrings are pulled forcefully, such as a curious baby or in a heated fight.

In addition to developing for a number of reasons, the type of tear itself can also vary typically over time and can be a partial or complete tear.

Will a Split Earlobe Repair Itself?

Best Split Earlobe Repair Los Angeles: The Manhattan Beach, Los Angeles patient below came to Dr. Umar with an earlobe split in half. This complete tear prevented her from wearing earrings normally. Additionally, the cosmetic effect of such a tear can be a source of anxiety or embarrassment for some people.

Similarly, the Hollywood, Los Angeles patient below consulted Dr. Umar to repair a split earlobe.

Split Earlobe Repair CA: This Hollywood, Los Angeles patient approached Dr. Umar about her torn earlobe; after the repair procedure at Dr. U Skin Clinic, she was interested in safe earrings for split earlobes.

In either case, however, these tears can be surgically closed. Dr. Umar explains this process involves two steps:

1. Freshening the wound edges
2. Suturing the wound closed

In freshening the wound, Dr. Umar prepares the torn earlobe for secondary closure by removing early scar tissue.

In some cases, a keloid may form over the split earlobe, in which case keloid removal services may be required.

Are There Any Earrings for Split Earlobes?

Earlobe Split Repair: After treating an earlobe that has been split in half, Dr. Umar typically recommends discontinuing the use of earrings. However, if this is unacceptable for a patient, Dr. Umar recommends that earrings are worn in a different area. The area should be away from the trajectory of the formerly torn part of the earlobe. This typically means a new puncture away from the sutured area.

How to Fix Split Earlobe: Dr. Umar also recommends avoiding heavy earrings going forward to prevent this issue from developing again. For patients wondering about the kinds of earrings for split earlobes, Dr. Umar recommends clip-on earrings.

To consult with Dr. Umar for free, click or tap the button below.

Additional Articles

What Your Ears Say About Your Health by WebMd

The post Will a Split Earlobe Repair Itself? Best Split Earlobe Repair Los Angeles appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Article Update July 2022

What is the difference between Botox and Dysport?

In summary, Dysport is much more diluted, thus spreading faster compared to Botox.

This makes Dysport great for large surface areas such as the forehead.

On the other hand, Botox is much more potent, making it particularly useful for small areas and pesky wrinkles such as Crow’s feet.

Continue below to see which injectable option is best for your goals.

When should i expect to see results after botox injections?

Botox offers a relatively quick way to reduce the appearance of facial expression wrinkles. Patients often wonder when they will see their new changes. Dr. U…

Why the Duration of Botox and Dysport Matters For Los Angeles Patients

As Dr. Umar explains in the video above, patients are curious to know how long the effects of neuromuscular injections last. The answers to these questions matter for practical considerations such as:

• cost
• convenience

How often you would have to undergo treatments would naturally affect the amount you spend on Botox or Dysport injections per year. Also, it affects how often you need to visit your doctor to maintain your results.

How Long Do Botox and Dysport Last on Average

Botox and Dysport are both made from botulinum toxin. However, each of these drugs has a slightly different molecular structure. Therefore, on average, they last about the same amount of time. As Dr. Umar points out in the video, the average duration of Botox and Dysport for treating wrinkles is about 3-4 months.

When Botox or Dysport Results Are Shorter or Longer Than Expected, According to Dr. U

Most patients will experience the extent of their results for 3-4 months. However, others will notice different timeframes. Due to individual variations, some may find that their injections last much shorter or longer than average. Why does this happen?

Although Botox and Dysport are both made of botulinum toxin, Botox tends to have a more significant number of surrounding buffer proteins surrounding the central molecule. Individual patients will vary regarding how their immune systems react to the core molecule and the buffer protein. In some people, the surrounding proteins protect the central botulinum toxin core. For others, the immune system will form antibodies against them. Likewise, the opposite may occur where the immune system attacks the central core due to the drug having fewer buffer proteins.

When Botox or Dysport results don’t last, Dr. Umar encourages patients to observe how their body reacts to the other botulinum toxin drug.

Why Botox or Dysport Might Last Longer Than Average?

These molecular proteins may also lead to a much longer duration in some people. They may cause the drug to break down at a much slower rate by the body’s metabolic system.

What To Do When Your Botox or Dysport Results Don’t Last?

If your expected outcome doesn’t seem to last as long as you had hoped, don’t worry. Other patients have also experienced the same. In these situations, another botulinum toxin may be recommended. If you were given Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin (an even newer botulinum toxin injection) might be recommended instead. Or, if you were experiencing a shorter duration with Dysport, you may experience better results with Botox or Xeomin. Your body’s immune and metabolic systems may react favorably to other alternatives to help your results last longer.

When should i expect to see results after botox injections?

Botox offers a relatively quick way to reduce the appearance of facial expression wrinkles. Patients often wonder when they will see their new changes. Dr. U…

If you are interested in speaking to Dr. Umar about undergoing treatment with Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin, sign up for a complimentary consultation.

Free Skin Consultation

References

1. Wikipedia Contributors. “Botulinum Toxin.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 20 Feb. 2019, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Botulinum_toxin.

The post How Long Do Botox and Dysport Results Last? appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.

Acne Scars and How They Develop

In severe cases of acne, larger quantities of oil are secreted by the skin. This creates an environment for more bacteria to thrive and proliferate. When this happens, your own immune system is signaled to call forth specialized cells that will engulf them. This process creates an inflammatory reaction in your skin. The tissue structures, like the walls of the hair follicles and skin pores to swell and even tear. Your skin tries to repair itself by producing thick, rubbery bundles of collagen to heal and protect itself against further damage. This type of collagen is what you see as acne scars.

Acne Scar Treatment Modalities

Before addressing the actual acne scars themselves, Dr. Umar recommends clearing existing acne as best as possible. Otherwise, additional scar tissue will continue to form.

In the video, Dr. Umar discusses the four main types of acne scar treatment types that are available.

1. Get Rid of Acne Scars With Dermabrasion

With dermabrasion, the outer layer of the skin is treated through processes much like sanding. Dr. Umar describes two types:

Does Microdermabrasion Improve Acne Scars? 

Microdermabrasion is where the very external layer of the skin is exfoliated with tiny granules, similar to facials. Since acne scars are made of thickened collagen that is interwoven into the skin, this will be an ineffective approach that will not get rid of the scar tissue itself.

Surgical Dermabrasion for Removing Acne Scars

Regular dermabrasion is a far more invasive procedure. This form of acne treatment needs to be performed by a licensed physician since it involves a deeper level of sanding and exfoliation to actually ablate and remove the top layer of the skin. However, the procedure should not be done on ethnic patients due to the high risk of developing scars and permanent pigmentation issues. The best candidates are Caucasians with very light skin.

2.Treating Acne Scars With Chemical Peels

Chemical peels use  specially prepared solutions to penetrate below the skin’s surface and start the process of removing the outer layer. However, it is difficult to predict or control the actual depth of the chemicals used.

This form of acne scar treatment is not recommended for many skin types due to the risk of incurring many types of complications, like dark spots and even various forms of damage. 

3. Using Lasers for Removing Acne Scars

In the video, Dr. Umar explains his general strategy for treating a wide area of skin at once before addressing the smaller details. Lasers are a good choice to start with. They work by inflicting controlled burns which stimulates the skin to heal itself by producing normal collagen. This tissue works to smooths out the acne scars, making them less noticeable.

Lasers offer a much safer choice compared to chemicals. Doctors can adjust the settings to precisely control the depth of the laser beam. There is a much smaller overall risk of complications and patients can expect to improve acne scars by about 60-70%.

While some lasers are ideal for fair-skinned type I-II individuals such as. CO2 lasers, there are others which are also safe and effective for patients of color, like the Fraxel Dual. Fraxel Dual uses two laser wavelengths,  1550 nm and 1927 nm.

Patients with darker skin will have higher concentrations of melanin, causing them to readily absorb laser energy which will overheat their skin. With Fraxel Dual’s specialized wavelengths, this reaction will not occur. 

Patients of all skin types can expect to undergo at least 3-5 acne scar treatment sessions. 

4. Improve Acne Scars with Surgery

Once the general skin area has been refined and made smoother with laser, specific areas of acne scars can be improved with surgical treatments, such as punch excisions and other forms of removal.

Finding the best form of treatment for acne scars involves understanding how they are formed by the skin in the first place.

With this perspective, certain treatments will clearly make more sense than others to get the improvement that you truly want.

To speak to Dr. Umar about an effective acne scar treatment, click this button for a complimentary consultation.

Free Skin Consultation

The post How to Choose the Best Acne Scar Treatment For You appeared first on Dr. U Hair & Skin Clinic | FUE Hair Restoration, Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach | Dr Sanusi Umar MD.