Question 1

What causes acne scars?

Accepted Answer

Acne scars form when severe acne, especially deep cystic or nodular breakouts, damages the deeper layers of skin during the healing process. The intense inflammation that comes with these more serious breakouts can disrupt normal collagen production, leaving behind raised, depressed, or pigmented marks once the skin heals. Scarring becomes more likely when acne is left untreated for a long stretch, since ongoing inflammation gives the skin more opportunity to sustain lasting damage. Picking, squeezing, or otherwise manipulating pimples is another common contributor, since this can push infection deeper into the skin and interfere with the body's natural repair process. Some people are also simply more prone to scarring than others because of genetic factors that affect how their skin produces and organizes collagen during healing. Because acne scars can result from a combination of these factors, the type and severity of scarring varies quite a bit from person to person, which is why treatment plans are typically built around each patient's specific texture and scar pattern rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Question 2

Which treatments help with acne scars?

Accepted Answer

Bruce Wellness & Aesthetics addresses acne scars with two treatments that work on skin texture from different angles. Laser Skin Resurfacing uses focused light energy to remove damaged outer layers of skin and encourage the growth of smoother, more even-toned tissue underneath, which can soften the look of raised or depressed scarring over time. Plasma RF Skin Rejuvenation, delivered through the Opus platform, combines radiofrequency energy with plasma technology to stimulate collagen remodeling deeper in the skin with less surface disruption than some resurfacing approaches. Both work gradually, encouraging the skin to rebuild its own structure rather than delivering an instant fix, which is why they are typically recommended as part of a longer treatment plan rather than a single visit. During a consultation, the team evaluates the type of scarring present, whether raised, depressed, or pigmented, and recommends the option, or combination of options, best suited to that scar pattern and the patient's skin type.

Question 3

How many sessions will I need, and how soon will I see results?

Accepted Answer

The number of sessions needed to visibly improve acne scars depends on the depth and extent of the scarring as well as which treatment is chosen. Because both Laser Skin Resurfacing and Plasma RF Skin Rejuvenation work by encouraging the skin to gradually rebuild collagen, most patients need a series of sessions spaced weeks apart rather than a single treatment, with results building progressively over that time instead of appearing all at once. Superficial pigmentation left behind by old breakouts may soften somewhat on its own, but deeper textural scarring generally does not resolve without professional treatment. Many patients notice smoother texture and a more even tone within the weeks following their early sessions, with continued improvement as the skin keeps remodeling collagen after each visit. Because every patient's scarring pattern is different, the exact number of sessions and expected timeline is best determined during an in-person consultation, where the provider can assess scar depth and build a plan suited to individual goals.

Question 4

Is there any downtime after acne scar treatment?

Accepted Answer

Downtime after acne scar treatment varies depending on which option is used and how an individual's skin responds. Laser Skin Resurfacing and Plasma RF Skin Rejuvenation are both designed to limit disruption to daily life compared to more invasive scar-revision procedures, but patients can typically expect some temporary redness, warmth, or mild swelling in the treated area right after a session, similar to a mild sunburn feeling. This generally settles within a short period, and most patients resume normal activities the same day or shortly after, though makeup and sun exposure may need to be limited for a brief window while the skin recovers. Because scars can't be fully removed, and treatment works through gradual skin remodeling rather than immediate transformation, patients shouldn't expect dramatic overnight change, but they also shouldn't expect an extended recovery that keeps them out of their normal routine. The provider reviews specific aftercare instructions based on the exact treatment selected.

Question 5

Am I a good candidate for acne scar treatment?

Accepted Answer

Good candidates are individuals bothered by raised, depressed, or pigmented marks left behind from past breakouts who want to improve their skin's overall texture and tone. Because these treatments work best on scarring that has already stabilized, candidates typically have their active acne under control rather than experiencing ongoing severe breakouts, since new inflammation can continue creating new scarring even while older marks are being treated. Patients with a range of scar types, from superficial discoloration to deeper textural changes, may benefit, though the right approach depends on the specific pattern present. It's important to understand going in that scars can't be fully erased, but treatment can significantly reduce their visibility and improve the overall look and feel of the skin. Superficial pigmentation may fade somewhat on its own over time, while deeper scars generally require professional treatment to see meaningful change. The best way to find out whether a treatment path is a fit is a consultation, where the provider can examine the skin directly and discuss realistic expectations.

Acne Scars

IN CARY, NC

What Are Acne Scars?

What Are the Causes of Acne Scars?

Treatments & Recommendations

Laser Skin Resurfacing (Erbium and Clearskin)

Plasma RF Skin Resurfacing (Opus)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can acne scars be completely removed?

What are the best treatments for acne scars?

Do acne scars fade over time without treatment?

Are acne scar treatments painful?

Can acne scars be prevented?

Opening Hours