Acne Scar Treatment
Acne Scar Treatment in Bellevue, WA | PicoSure Pro Laser, RF Microneedling & CO2
Restore smoother skin with clinically proven acne scar treatments in Bellevue, WA. Our board-certified providers use FDA-cleared PicoSure Pro laser, RF microneedling, CO2/Er:YAG resurfacing, subcision, and medical-grade peels—personalized to your scar type and safe for all skin tones (Fitzpatrick I-VI). See visible improvement in texture and discoloration with minimal downtime. Book a consultation to get a customized plan and before‑and‑after preview of your expected results.
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Our board-certified providers create personalized treatment plans for your specific scar type.
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What Is Acne Scar Treatment? How It Works to Smooth Texture and Discoloration
Acne scar treatment uses advanced medical technology to reduce the appearance of marks left behind by acne. These treatments work by stimulating collagen and elastin remodeling in your skin, gradually smoothing out texture and improving tone.
Atrophic vs. Hypertrophic Scars vs. PIH (Dark Marks)
Not all acne marks are the same. Atrophic scars create depressions in your skin (like icepick, boxcar, and rolling scars). Hypertrophic scars are raised bumps. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) isn't actually scarring—it's dark spots that fade over time but can be treated faster with the right approach.
When to Treat: After Active Acne Is Controlled
Before starting scar treatment, it's important to have your active acne under control. Treating scars while you're still breaking out is like mopping the floor while the faucet is still running. Our providers will assess your skin during your consultation using validated grading scales like Goodman & Baron to set realistic goals.
Acne Scar Types We Treat in Bellevue (Icepick, Boxcar, Rolling, Hypertrophic)
Icepick
These narrow, deep scars look like tiny holes in your skin. They're often treated with TCA CROSS or punch excision for best results.
Boxcar
Wider, box-like depressions with sharp edges. Fractional ablative lasers like CO2 or Er:YAG work well for these.
Rolling
Wave-like depressions caused by bands pulling skin down. Subcision combined with laser resurfacing or RF microneedling delivers great results.
Hypertrophic
Raised, firm scars that stay within the original acne spot. These respond well to laser therapy and targeted treatments.
Acne Scar Removal Options
We offer multiple FDA-cleared treatments, often combining them for optimal results. We serve patients from Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, and the greater Eastside area.
PicoSure Pro Fractionated Picosecond Laser (FDA‑Cleared)
Our PicoSure Pro uses ultra-fast pulses to break up scar tissue without excessive heat, making it safer for darker skin tones.
CO2 and Er:YAG Fractional Ablative Lasers: Pros, Cons, Downtime
These powerful lasers create controlled micro-injuries that trigger deep collagen remodeling. More downtime than PicoSure Pro, but fewer sessions needed.
RF Microneedling (RFMN) and RF-Assisted Laser (RFAL)
Combines tiny needles with radiofrequency energy to heat deeper skin layers, stimulating collagen production from within. RFAL is chosen over non-ablative lasers for mixed textural scars needing deeper dermal heating, with typical downtime of 3-5 days.
Subcision for Tethered Rolling Scars
A small needle releases the bands pulling skin down, allowing it to lift naturally. Often paired with dermal fillers for enhanced results.
TCA CROSS for Icepick Scars
Precise application of concentrated TCA acid to individual scars stimulates collagen in targeted areas.
Dermal Fillers (HA, Biostimulators)
Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane and Belotero provide immediate lift, while biostimulators like Sculptra and Radiesse promote collagen production. Often paired with subcision for optimal results.
Microneedling and Chemical Peels (Glycolic, Lactic, TCA)
Microneedling creates micro-channels that trigger your skin's healing response. Medical-grade peels remove damaged surface layers, revealing smoother skin beneath.
Punch Excision/Grafting and PRP/PRF Adjuncts
Punch excision is reserved for discrete, deep boxcar/icepick scars and often followed by fractional laser for blend-in. PRP/PRFÂ from your own blood accelerates healing and enhances other treatments.
Why Combination Therapy Often Wins
Most patients see best results combining treatments. We'll create a personalized plan during your consultation.
Safety and Mechanisms
Neocollagenesis: Collagen and Elastin Remodeling
All our treatments trigger your body's natural healing process, creating new collagen and elastin fibers that smooth and firm your skin.
Photoacoustic vs. Thermal Energy (PicoSure Pro)
PicoSure Pro uses photoacoustic energy (pressure waves) rather than just heat, reducing risk of PIH while effectively breaking up scar tissue.
Protocols for Fitzpatrick I-VI and PIH Prevention
We adjust settings based on your Fitzpatrick skin type. Pre/post brightening with azelaic acid or short course hydroquinone when appropriate, plus strict SPF 30+ reapplication every 2 hours outdoors.
Timeline: Visible Changes Over 12-16 Weeks
While you'll see some improvement quickly, full results develop over 3-4 months as new collagen forms.
Are You a Candidate?
Skin Types I-VI, Acne Control, Isotretinoin Wait Period
Our treatments are safe for all skin types when properly customized. Controlled acne is essential. If you've taken isotretinoin, wait 6 months for non-ablative/RF treatments, 6-12 months for ablative CO2/Er:YAG per provider assessment.
Keloid History, Pregnancy, and Other Contraindications
We'll review your medical history to ensure treatments are safe and appropriate for you.
Your Bellevue Consultation and Custom Plan
Fitzpatrick Assessment and Scar Grading
During your consultation, we'll evaluate your skin type and use validated scales like Goodman & Baron to grade your scars and determine the best treatment approach.
Photos, Goal Setting, and Treatment Sequencing
We'll take before-and-after photos and discuss realistic expectations for your results and optimal treatment sequencing.
See Real Results from Real Patients
View our gallery of before-and-after photos from actual Bellevue patients.
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What to Expect on Treatment Day
Numbing, Test Spots, Session Length, Sensation
We apply numbing cream 30-45 minutes before treatment. For some procedures, we'll do test spots first to ensure your skin responds well. Most treatments take 30-60 minutes. You'll feel warmth, tingling, or light snapping sensations—most patients find it very tolerable.
Post-Treatment Care Kit and Instructions
You'll leave with detailed aftercare instructions and recommended products to optimize healing.
Step-by-Step Treatment Process:
Check-in and photos
Numbing (30-45 min)
Test spots (as needed)
Treatment (30-60 min)
Post-care review and scheduling next session
Results, Downtime, and Aftercare
Redness/Swelling Timeline and Makeup Return
Expect redness for 3-7 days and mild swelling for 1-2 days. Makeup can usually be worn after 24-48 hours.
SPF 30+ and Pigment-Safe Protocols
Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is essential with reapplication every 2 hours outdoors. We provide specific protocols including brightening agents to prevent dark spots, especially for darker skin tones.
Home Care: Hold Retinoids/Exfoliants; Gentle Cleansers
Use gentle, fragrance-free products. Pause topical retinoids and exfoliating acids until skin heals.
Aftercare essentials:
Cleanse with gentle, fragrance-free wash twice daily
Moisturize as directed; avoid picking/scratching
SPF 30+ every morning; reapply every 2 hours outdoors
Hold retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, and exfoliants until cleared
Avoid heat, saunas, intense workouts for 24-48 hours
Sessions, Maintenance, and Follow-Ups
Most patients need 3-6 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart, with annual maintenance treatments.
Risks and Side Effects
Common Effects (Redness, Swelling, Irritation)
These common side effects typically resolve within a week.
Rare Risks (PIH, Hypopigmentation, Infection, Scarring)
When performed by experienced providers with proper protocols, serious complications are very rare. HSV Prophylaxis and Medication Review
If you get cold sores, we'll prescribe preventive medication before treatment. We'll review all medications during consultation to check for photosensitivity risks.
Cost in Bellevue: Pricing
Per-Session Rates and Packages
Single sessions range from $300-$1,500 depending on treatment. Factors: Scar Severity, Area Size, Device
Factors That Influence Pricing:
Scar type and severity (number/depth of scars)
Treatment area size (full face vs. focal areas)
Device/modality used (PicoSure Pro vs. CO2/RFMN)
Number of sessions and add-ons (e.g., PRP/PRF)
PicoSure Pro vs. CO2/Er:YAG: Which Is Right for You?
Downtime and Recovery
PicoSure Pro: 3-5 days downtime. CO2/Er:YAG: 7-14 days downtime but fewer sessions needed.
Safety by Skin Tone (Fitzpatrick I-VI)
PicoSure Pro is safer for darker skin. CO2/Er:YAG carries higher PIH risk for Fitzpatrick IV-VI.
Sessions Needed and Expected Outcomes
PicoSure Pro: 4-6 sessions. CO2/Er:YAG: 1-3 sessions. Both achieve 50-80% improvement in most cases.
Treating Darker Skin Tones (Fitzpatrick IV-VI)
Non-Ablative Lasers, RF Microneedling, RFAL
We use gentler settings and may recommend RF microneedling or radiofrequency-assisted laser (RFAL) as safer alternatives for darker skin tones.
Conservative Peels and PIH Prevention
Light peels with careful monitoring and pre-treatment skin preparation minimize risks. We use targeted brightening protocols with azelaic acid or hydroquinone when appropriate.
Alternatives for Mild Acne Scarring
Medical-Grade Skincare: Retinoids, Vitamin C, Azelaic Acid
For mild scarring, prescription retinoids and quality skincare may provide sufficient improvement.
Silicone Gel and Diligent Sun Protection
Silicone sheets can help flatten raised scars. Daily sunscreen prevents darkening of marks.
Why Choose Our Bellevue Clinic
Board-Certified Providers, FDA-Cleared Devices
Our providers hold certifications from the American Board of Dermatology/Plastic Surgery with years of experience and thousands of scar procedures performed annually. We use only FDA-cleared PicoSure Pro, CO2/Er:YAG, and RFMN platforms.
Why Choose Us:
Board-certified MDs/cosmetic surgeons; thousands of scar procedures performed
FDA-cleared PicoSure Pro, CO2/Er:YAG, and RFMN platforms
Safe protocols for Fitzpatrick I-VI and PIH prevention
Transparent pricing, packages, and financing options
Eastside location with free parking; online booking 24/7
Eastside Location, Parking, and Easy Online Booking
Located in downtown Bellevue, WA with free parking and 24/7 online scheduling. We serve Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, and the greater Eastside area.
FAQs
What types of acne scars can be treated in Bellevue?
We treat all types: icepick, boxcar, rolling, and hypertrophic scars, plus post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
What treatments are offered (laser resurfacing, microneedling, chemical peels)?
We offer PicoSure Pro laser, CO2/Er:YAG lasers, RF microneedling, RFAL, chemical peels, subcision, TCA CROSS, and more.
How much does acne scar treatment cost in Bellevue?
Costs range from $300-$1,500 per session depending on treatment type and area size. Packages available with 15-20% savings.
What is the process like, and what should I expect during my appointment?
After numbing, treatment takes 30-60 minutes with mild discomfort. You'll receive aftercare instructions and products.
How many sessions are typically needed for visible results?
Most patients need 3-6 sessions for optimal results, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
What's the downtime and what recovery should I expect?
Expect 3-7 days of redness and mild swelling. Most return to normal activities within a week.
Are there risks or potential side effects?
Common side effects include temporary redness and swelling. Serious complications are rare with experienced providers.
Are treatments FDA-cleared and safe for all skin types?
Yes, we use FDA-cleared devices safe for Fitzpatrick skin types I-VI when properly adjusted.
Who performs the procedure—what are their qualifications and experience?
Board-certified medical providers with American Board of Dermatology/Plastic Surgery certifications and extensive training in cosmetic procedures perform all treatments.
Are there alternative treatments for mild acne scarring?
Yes, medical-grade skincare with retinoids, vitamin C, and azelaic acid can help mild scarring.
PicoSure Pro vs CO2 laser: which is better for my acne scars?
PicoSure Pro: less downtime, safer for dark skin. CO2: more aggressive, fewer sessions needed.
How does PicoSure Pro compare to Fraxel for acne scars?
PicoSure Pro uses photoacoustic energy with less thermal damage than Fraxel, making it safer for darker skin tones with comparable results and less downtime.
Is acne scar treatment safe for darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV-VI)?
Yes, with proper device selection and settings. We specialize in treating all skin tones safely using protocols designed to prevent PIH.
How long after Accutane (isotretinoin) should I wait before treatment?
Wait 6 months for non-ablative/RF treatments, 6-12 months for ablative CO2/Er:YAG lasers per provider assessment.
Do you offer pain management options (e.g., stronger topical anesthetic or Pro-Nox) during treatment?
Yes, we offer enhanced numbing options including stronger topical anesthetics and Pro-Nox (nitrous oxide) for patient comfort during treatment.
Do you treat patients from Kirkland, Redmond, and the greater Eastside, and is parking available?
Yes, we serve patients from Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, and the entire Eastside area. Free parking is available at our downtown Bellevue location.
Start Your Journey to Smoother Skin Today
Don't let acne scars hold you back. Our Bellevue clinic offers personalized treatment plans with proven results.
Book a Consultation