Acne scars and rough skin texture are notoriously difficult to treat, and over-the-counter products rarely make a significant difference. While resurfacing lasers have long been used for these concerns, newer technology offers better results with less downtime.
At Krauss Dermatology, we often recommend the UltraClear® laser because of its ability to dramatically improve acne scars, texture, and fine lines with fewer treatments and faster recovery.
What is the UltraClear® Laser?
UltraClear® is a next-generation fractional cold fiber laser that targets aging, sun damage, scarring, and texture concerns. Using a 2910nm wavelength, it gently removes micro-layers of skin and stimulates collagen production without overheating surrounding tissue. This “cold laser” approach makes treatments more comfortable while allowing both superficial and deeper rejuvenation than traditional ablative lasers.
Because it treats skin with exceptional precision and safety, UltraClear® is effective across a wide range of skin types and tones, with customizable settings for your unique goals.
*Individual Results May Vary*
UltraClear® vs. Fraxel®: Which Is Better for Acne Scars and Texture?
Fraxel® has been a popular choice for resurfacing, using heat-based fractional laser energy to resurface skin and stimulate collagen. While it also can improve pigmentation and mild texture issues, it does require multiple treatments, and recovery can involve redness, swelling and some peeling. UltraClear®, by comparison, delivers more advanced results with fewer treatments, however the recuperation time is a bit more challenging than Fraxel when a more aggressive treatment is performed:
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- Both improve acne scars and skin texture
- Fewer sessions needed for visible results with Ultraclear
- Faster healing and less downtime with Fraxel compared to aggressive Ultraclear
- Since Ultraclear is an “ablative” laser, it makes small open injuries to the skin so patients cannot be on blood thinners or immunosuppressive medications.
How Many Fraxel® Treatments Will I Need?
Your treatment plan depends on your skin condition and the intensity of each session. For acne scars and deeper texture concerns, most people achieve excellent results with four to six sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart.
How Many Ultraclear® Treatments Will I Need?
We begin with one treatment utilizing a combination of superficial, deep and coring pulses depending on the degree of texture and scarring improvements necessary. Though improvement continues over a six month period, additional treatments can be performed as early as 2 months apart if desired. Many patients see significant improvements with just 1-2 treatments.
Your team at Krauss Dermatology will customize your treatment schedule for optimal results.
Downtime After UltraClear® Laser Treatments
UltraClear® is designed for powerful results while minimizing disruption to your life as much as possible. After treatment, you may notice pinpoint bleeding, crusting, redness, swelling, and peeling, which usually resolve within 4-8 days.
Most people feel comfortable returning to work or social events in a week. With ongoing collagen remodeling, your skin will continue to improve for weeks and months after treatment.
Fraxel® treatments generally involve a less dramatic recovery period of 2-4 days with redness, swelling and peeling. There is no bleeding or crusting. However more treatments are required and overall improvement in acne scarring and texture improvement may not be as dramatic as with the ablative Ultraclear®.
Am I a Good Candidate for UltraClear®?
UltraClear® is an excellent choice if you have:
- Acne scars and uneven skin texture
- Fine lines and early signs of aging
- Sun damage or pigmentation issues
- Enlarged pores or dull skin
- No blood thinners, immunosuppressive medications or difficulty healing
Because it is safe for many skin types, UltraClear® is ideal for those seeking visible results without the extended recovery often required by older ablative laser technologies but who still can tolerate a period of downtime. During your consultation, your board-certified dermatologist will determine if UltraClear® is the best treatment for your goals.
Take the Next Step
If you have further questions about treating acne scars and uneven skin texture, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Krauss Dermatology. Call us at (781) 247-5593 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to taking care of you.