The global scar treatment market was worth $13.1 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow to $32.4 billion by 2031 – with an annual growth rate of 9.4%.
Looking at the growing demand for scar treatments – investing in laser scar reduction now makes sense. Clinics that adopt advanced laser technology can meet the rising demand while offering their patients a proven, effective solution.
Laser treatments are precise, targeting scars with minimal damage to surrounding tissue, which improves patient satisfaction. As the need for better scar care grows, integrating laser scar removal into your practice could give you a competitive edge.
But how does it work? What types of scars respond best? And what should your clinic consider before adopting this treatment? In this article – we’ll cover everything you need to know about laser scar treatment.
What is Laser Scar Reduction Treatment?
Laser scar treatment works by using photothermal energy to target both – the internal and external structures of scar tissue. This process helps to improve the colour and texture of the scar – while also encouraging new collagen production and promoting skin remodelling.
The goal isn’t to completely eliminate scars – but rather to reduce their visibility and address any discomfort they may cause – whether physical or emotional. By stimulating natural skin regeneration – laser therapy offers a safe, effective way to soften and improve the appearance of scars over time without the need for invasive procedures.
How Does Laser Scar Reduction Treatment Work?
Laser scar reduction treatment operates through a sophisticated process involving photothermal energy. This energy is delivered via a laser to target specific intra- and extra-cellular structures within the scar tissue.
The primary mechanism is the selective photothermolysis principle – where the laser energy is absorbed by chromophores in the scar – leading to controlled thermal damage. This damage prompts the body’s natural healing response, stimulating neocollagenesis and dermal remodelling.
Er: YAG lasers, commonly used in scar treatments, offer precise energy control, allowing for targeted ablation of scar tissue with minimal impact on the surrounding skin. The fractional approach divides the laser beam into multiple microscopic columns – treating only a fraction of the skin at a time – which reduces downtime and promotes faster healing.
Types of Lasers for Scar Treatment
Several types of lasers are used in scar treatment – each offering unique benefits based on the scar’s characteristics and the desired outcome.
CO2 Lasers
These lasers are effective for treating deep scars. They work by delivering high-energy beams that penetrate the skin – removing the outer layers and stimulating significant collagen production. This can lead to substantial improvements in scar appearance – but recovery can be much longer compared to other lasers.
Nd: YAG Lasers
The Nd: YAG laser is versatile and targets both vascular and pigmented scars. It can penetrate deeper layers of the skin – making it suitable for treating various skin types and scar depths – including those with redness and discolouration.
Pulsed Dye Lasers
These lasers are specifically designed to address vascular issues within scars. They target the blood vessels that cause redness and discolouration – reducing the visibility of scars by improving skin tone and reducing inflammation.
Er: YAG Lasers
Known for their precision – Er: YAG lasers are ideal for treating superficial and medium-depth scars. They work by precisely ablating the scar tissue and stimulating collagen production – leading to smoother skin with minimal damage to surrounding tissues.
Fractional Lasers
These can be either ablative or non-ablative. Fractional lasers divide the laser beam into numerous tiny columns that treat only a portion of the skin at a time. This approach helps in reducing downtime and promotes quicker healing. Ablative fractional lasers remove layers of skin to improve texture – while non-ablative fractional lasers stimulate collagen production without damaging the outer layers.
Asclepion Devices for Laser Scar Reduction Treatment
Did you know the effectiveness of laser scar removal treatment depends on the quality of the device you use? Advanced devices now offer more precise and effective results. Clinics looking to provide top-tier scar reduction solutions can rely on state-of-the-art technology offered by Asclepion.
Asclepion offers three state-of-the-art devices for laser scar treatment – the Dermablate and PicoStar.
Dermablate
The Dermablate Cool Laser is an industry-leading Er: YAG (Erbium: YAG) laser known for its high-precision skin ablation and fractional therapy. It’s designed for delicate control – allowing practitioners to effectively reduce scar tissue while protecting the surrounding skin. With its advanced technology – the Dermablate ensures excellent results in improving skin texture and tone.
PicoStar
The PicoStar, on the other hand, uses cutting-edge technology with ultra-fast pulses below 300 picoseconds. This high-power laser offers one of the most efficient and precise scar removal solutions available – making it ideal for clinics looking to achieve exceptional outcomes.
These non-invasive devices offer a fast, tailored treatment experience with minimal discomfort or downtime – making them ideal for a variety of scar types and skin tones.
VascuStar
The VascuStar is designed for use with advanced laser handpieces, enabling the system to perform a variety of treatments, including laser scar reduction. By integrating potent laser light with DYE, the VascuStar® delivers industry-leading results across more than eight different types of laser procedures, making it one of the most versatile pulsed DYE laser systems on the market.
The Benefits of Laser Scar Reduction
Laser scar reduction offers several benefits – making it a popular choice for improving scar appearance. Here are the main advantages:
Precision
Lasers target specific scar tissue areas with high accuracy. This minimizes damage to the surrounding healthy skin.
Non-invasive
The procedure does not require incisions. This reduces the risk of infection and allows for a quicker recovery.
Minimal downtime
Patients typically experience little to no downtime. They can resume their daily activities sooner.
Stimulates collagen production
Lasers stimulate natural skin healing by promoting collagen production and remodelling. This enhances skin texture and tone.
Customisable treatments
Different lasers, like Er: YAG and fractional – can be selected based on the scar’s depth, type, and the patient’s skin characteristics. This ensures optimal results.
Safe and effective
Laser treatments are a safe and minimally invasive solution. They are proven to be effective in reducing scar appearance in cosmetic dermatology. Laser systems replace more traditional means of treatment, which can be both more invasive and less effective.
Advanced laser systems allow practitioners an incredibly accurate means of treatment, enabling treatment to be conducted with maximum safety for both patients and practitioners.
Side Effects of Laser Scar Reduction
While laser scar removal is generally safe – it can have some side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but it’s important to be aware of them:
– Redness
– Swelling
– Mild discomfort
– Dryness or peeling
– Temporary pigmentation changes
– Itching
– Sensitivity to sunlight
– Crusting or scabbing
Is Laser Scar Reduction Treatment Painful?
Laser scar treatment is generally well-tolerated by most patients. While some discomfort can be expected – it is typically described as a sensation of heat or a mild stinging. You can use numbing creams or local anaesthetics to minimise pain.
How Many Sessions Are Necessary to Remove Scars?
The number of sessions needed for effective scar reduction varies based on the scar’s type, depth, and the laser used. Typically, patients require 3 to 6 sessions to see significant improvement. Sessions are usually spaced several weeks apart to allow for proper healing and collagen production.
What is Scarring?
Scarring is the process where new tissue forms to heal a wound – resulting in a visible mark on the skin. It occurs when the skin’s deeper layers are damaged – and the body repairs the injury with fibrous tissue. Scars can vary in appearance, ranging from flat and pale to raised or discoloured.
Did you know? The Scar Free Foundation says that 38% of people in the UK have a scar of some sorts.
What Causes Scarring?
Scarring results from the body’s natural healing process following skin injury. When the dermis (the deeper skin layer) is damaged – the body produces collagen to repair the wound. This collagen forms fibrous tissue, which replaces the damaged skin.
During healing, fibroblasts create collagen and extracellular matrix, leading to the formation of a scar. Initially, the scar tissue is often red, raised, or thick due to the high concentration of collagen. Over time – it typically becomes flatter and less noticeable as collagen production decreases and the tissue matures.
Types of Scars
Do you know? Most scars are found on the abdomen and face. Around the world, 28.9% of people with recent scars reported feeling pain – 23.7% mentioned burning – 35.0% felt itching – and 44.1% noticed redness.
The most common concern was how visible they were and the marks they left behind. Scars come in various types – each with distinct characteristics and treatment needs.
Atrophic scars
These depressed or sunken scars are often seen on the face – especially from acne or chickenpox. They result from the loss of underlying skin tissue and can appear as pitted or indented marks.
Hypertrophic scars
Raised and red, hypertrophic scars occur at the site of a wound – typically on the chest, back, or shoulders. They result from excessive collagen production during healing and remain within the boundaries of the original wound.
Keloid scars
These are more pronounced than hypertrophic scars and can extend beyond the original injury site. Commonly found on the chest, shoulders, and earlobes – keloids result from an overproduction of collagen and may cause itching or discomfort.
Contracture scars
Often caused by severe burns – these scars tighten the skin and are usually found on areas of significant injury, such as – the arms, legs, or torso. They can restrict movement and flexibility.
Stretch marks
These scars appear as indented streaks on areas where the skin has been stretched rapidly – such as the abdomen, thighs, or breasts. They are caused by changes in skin elasticity due to rapid growth or weight changes.
Acne scars
Commonly found on the face – these scars can be atrophic (pitted) or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots). Atrophic scars result from the loss of skin tissue – while hyperpigmentation is due to increased melanin production following acne inflammation.
What Types of Scars Respond Best?
Laser treatments are suitable for treating scars on different parts of the body, including the face, abdomen, and limbs. However, it is particularly effective for certain types of scars.
Atrophic scars, such as those from acne or chickenpox – respond well as lasers stimulate collagen production to fill in the depressions.
Hypertrophic scars and keloids benefit from lasers by reducing excess collagen and smoothing the raised tissue.
Post-surgical scars and stretch marks can also improve with lasers – which help in remodelling the scar tissue and improve skin texture.
The Laser Scar Reduction Process
Performing laser scar removal involves using specific lasers to target and improve scar tissue. Here’s a simplified approach:
Step 1: Choose the laser
Select the appropriate laser type based on the scar. For example, Er:YAG and CO2 lasers are effective for smoothing and stimulating collagen in scars – while fractional lasers help by creating microscopic thermal zones that promote healing with less downtime.
Step 2: Prepare the area
Clean and prepare the treatment area. Apply a numbing cream or local anaesthetic to minimize discomfort.
Step 3: Conduct the treatment
Use the laser to precisely target the scar tissue. Ablative lasers like CO2 and Er:YAG remove layers of scarred skin – while fractional lasers create heat columns to encourage healing.
Step 4: Post-treatment care
After the procedure, expect some redness and swelling. Give post-treatment care instructions to promote healing and minimise downtime.
Step 5: Follow-up
Schedule follow-up sessions if needed, and monitor the scar’s progress to assess improvement.
Using Laser for Scar Prevention
Using lasers for scar prevention is an emerging practice in aesthetics. This approach focuses on minimizing scar formation by treating wounds before they fully heal. For instance, CO2 and Er: YAG lasers can be used to vaporize wound edges before surgical closure – improving the final appearance of the scar.
Other Treatments for Scar Reduction
Several non-laser treatments can help reduce the appearance of scars.
Microneedling
Uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin – promoting collagen production and improving scar texture.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
Uses the patient’s own blood to deliver growth factors that promote skin healing and collagen production.
Surgery
Removes or revises scar tissue to enhance appearance and function – though it can sometimes lead to new scarring.
Chemical peels
Apply acids to exfoliate the skin and smooth out scars – effective for various types of scars.
Steroid injections
Reduce inflammation and flatten raised scars – especially effective for keloids and hypertrophic scars.
Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion
This treatment works to mechanically remove layers of skin to improve texture – with dermabrasion being more intensive than microdermabrasion. This treatment provides a more physical means of scar reduction, which should only be used on a case-by-case basis.
What Should Your Clinic Consider Before Adopting Laser Scar Reduction Treatment?
Before adopting laser scar reduction treatment, clinics should evaluate several key factors:
Technology and equipment
Assess the types of lasers available and their suitability for treating various scar types. Make sure equipment is up-to-date and well-maintained.
Training and expertise
Verify that staff are properly trained in using laser technology and understand the nuances of different treatments.
Patient assessment
Conduct thorough consultations to determine patient suitability for laser treatment and discuss expected outcomes and risks.
Safety protocols
Implement strict safety measures to protect both patients and staff during treatments.
Cost and ROI
Consider the financial investment in laser technology and weigh it against potential revenue and patient demand.
To Conclude
Laser scar reduction treatments offer effective solutions for various scar types, resulting in a noticeable reduction in scar tissue, and an improvement in overall skin health.
By carefully selecting the right technology and considering patient needs, clinics can achieve optimal results and improve patient satisfaction.
Asclepion designs and manufactures a selection of laser systems that are capable of delivering laser scar removal, plus many other treatment types. Asclepion has been producing world-leading laser equipment for both the medical and aesthetic markets since 1977, making us one of the most trusted names in global laser manufacturing. To find out more about any of our devices, or to speak to one of our laser experts, get in touch with one of our team today.
FAQs
Does laser treatment remove scars permanently?
Laser treatment significantly improves scar appearance – but may not remove scars completely. Results vary by scar type and individual response.
How long does a laser scar reduction session take?
Sessions typically last 20 to 60 minutes -depending on scar size and type.
What is the downtime after treatment?
Downtime varies; usually, redness and swelling last for a few days to a week.
How do Asclepion lasers compare to other devices?
Asclepion lasers offer high precision and effective results with minimal downtime compared to other devices.
What should patients do before their treatment?
Patients should avoid – sun exposure, discontinue certain medications – and follow pre-treatment instructions provided by the clinic.
How can scar treatments impact a patient’s mental health?
Scar treatments can boost self-esteem and confidence – but also may cause anxiety about outcomes and recovery.
How effective is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for treating scars?
IPL improves scar appearance by reducing pigmentation and stimulating collagen – suitable for many types of scars.
