Combined treatment with a CO2 laser and bipolar radiofrequency (DOT/RF therapy) provides a dual effect:
- greater treatment effectiveness due to the synergy of two methods;
- more than 40 per cent shorter healing time.
For many years, smoothing scars caused by acne was difficult and time-consuming.
Today, fractional laser technologies make it possible to reduce acne scars quickly and effectively.
During DOT/RF laser therapy for acne scar smoothing, not the entire skin is treated, but only part of it using a fractional (spot) method. The laser beam penetrates the selected skin layer and creates microscopic channels, forming micro-areas surrounded by unaffected tissue. Their cells (fibroblasts in the skin) are activated, and the laser-affected skin area begins to regenerate. At the same time, a high level of energy reaches the skin, stimulating natural collagen production and accelerating skin renewal.
This procedure effectively renews the skin without surgery or injections, and the results are often visible and pleasing after just one procedure.
DOT/RF laser therapy for acne scar smoothing is a safe and effective procedure, especially suitable if you want to reduce skin irregularities, scars of various sizes, pigmentation, wrinkles, and restore skin radiance.
What are the advantages of DOT/RF laser therapy for acne scar smoothing?
The main advantages of this laser procedure are:
- results are visible after the first procedure;
- the laser-treated skin regenerates after healing;
- several skin concerns can be addressed during one procedure.
What skin concerns can be addressed with DOT/RF laser therapy for acne scar smoothing?
DOT/RF laser therapy for acne scar smoothing:
- smooths fine, medium and deep wrinkles;
- firms the skin;
- reduces various types of scars: post-acne, trauma, surgical and burn scars;
- evens out skin tone and enhances radiance;
- reduces stretch marks;
- tightens enlarged pores;
- reduces pigmented skin spots;
- is suitable for all skin types.
DOT/RF laser therapy for acne scar smoothing can be applied to the face as well as other areas: chin, neck, décolleté, hands, and localised scar areas. The effect of the procedure becomes noticeable after approximately one month.
How long does the DOT/RF laser therapy procedure for acne scar smoothing take?
The procedure takes 60–90 minutes, including preparation, treatment and post-procedure care. The laser treatment itself takes approximately 30 minutes.
Does the DOT/RF laser therapy procedure for acne scar smoothing have side effects?
The appearance of the skin after the procedure depends on the treated area. Usually, it becomes red, slightly swollen and warm. To soothe the skin, we recommend PRP – platelet-rich plasma – application. It shortens natural healing time, reduces signs of inflammation and works well in combination with laser procedures. In addition, growth factors in plasma stimulate the formation of new skin cells, and in the case of scars, fibrotic tissue is replaced by newly formed dermal cells – fibroblasts, thus restoring normal skin structure. Finally, PRP has antimicrobial properties and helps prevent secondary infection.
During healing, scabs and small blisters may form, and the skin may peel.
In rare cases, changes in skin pigmentation may occur, when treated areas become lighter or darker compared to the surrounding skin. These effects usually resolve over time.
In very rare cases, scarring or skin cracking may occur.
IMPORTANT: at Primum Estetica, a test is performed before the planned procedure, and the result is evaluated after five days. Based on this, the physician decides whether the procedure can be performed.
How to prepare for the DOT/RF laser therapy procedure for acne scar smoothing?
During the initial consultation, the physician collects the information necessary for successful treatment and discusses patient expectations.
The success of laser procedures largely depends on proper preparation.
General recommendations:
- avoid ultraviolet sun exposure for 4 weeks; do not use tanning beds or sunbathe;
- for 4 weeks before the procedure, cleanse the face with a gentle cleanser and avoid chemical or other exfoliating treatments;
- for 2 weeks before the procedure, do not use cosmetic products containing retinol;
- for 2 weeks before the procedure, avoid depilation or laser hair removal;
- for 2 weeks before the procedure, do not take antibiotics;
- at least 3 days before the procedure, discontinue blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants), if possible.
A few days before the procedure, inform your doctor:
- if you have undergone plastic or reconstructive surgery;
- if you have had herpes (herpes virus);
- if you are taking any medications.
Before the procedure, the skin must be healthy and free of inflammation.
How many fractional laser procedures for acne scar smoothing are needed?
The number of procedures depends on the treatment goals. Typically, 3–5 procedures are performed.
Is the DOT/RF laser therapy procedure for acne scar smoothing painful?
To ensure comfort during the procedure, a numbing cream is applied to the treatment area beforehand.
When can’t DOT/RF laser therapy procedures for acne scar smoothing be performed?
The procedure is not performed in patients who:
- have a cardiac implant or pacemaker;
- have collagenopathies (connective tissue disorders) or skin pathologies;
- are pregnant or breastfeeding;
- have infectious diseases;
- have neoplasia or a history of skin cancer;
- have kidney or liver insufficiency or dysfunction;
- have arrhythmia or any other severe known heart condition;
- have a metal implant and/or body piercing in the treatment area;
- have autoimmune disorders or diabetes;
- have blood clotting disorders;
- have transplanted organs;
- have an implanted deep brain stimulation system;
- have haemorrhagic diathesis;
- are prone to keloid scarring or abnormal wound healing;
- have heavily tanned skin.
General recommendations:
- do not be alarmed, during the first day the treated area will look similar to a severe sunburn;
- after the procedure, cool the treated area every hour for about 10 minutes using a cold compress (wrap it in a clean towel); repeat up to 6 times;
- apply the recommended cream generously 4 times a day until the skin heals (3–7 days);
- for 2 days avoid hot water, baths and showers; later cleanse gently with lukewarm water;
- do not scratch, pick or peel the skin, and do not apply adhesive materials;
- sleep on a slightly elevated pillow for 2 nights;
- avoid physical exercise for 3 days;
- avoid sauna for 1 week;
- for 2 weeks do not use products containing retinoids or glycolic acids;
- for 4 weeks avoid aggressive exfoliation;
- for at least 6 weeks avoid direct sun exposure and use SPF 50 or higher.
The procedure is performed using the medical DEKA SmartXide DOT/RF CO2 laser with an integrated radiofrequency source – this combination is considered the gold standard in skin treatment because:
- skin irregularities decrease and elasticity improves after just one procedure;
- it is suitable for various areas of the face and body and for different skin types;
- it is safe, especially for sensitive areas: around the eyes, neck and décolleté;
- PSD – Pulse shape design technology ensures minimal thermal tissue damage, low invasiveness and faster skin recovery.
In the gallery, you can see before and after photos of acne (post-acne) scar smoothing with DOT/RF laser therapy performed by Dr A. Bartkevičiūtė.
