acne scar treatments

Accure Laser, Scar Treatments, Pico Laser - May 27th 2025

Hello everyone, I’m Dr. Qazi, a skin restoration specialist based in Newport Beach, California. My passion lies in treating acne, scars, pigmentation, facial balancing, and collagen stimulation. Recently, I had an incredibly rewarding weekend filled with fascinating cases, including patients from out of state. One particular case stands out—a gentleman from New Mexico who has battled severe acne and scarring for years. Today, I’ll walk you through his remarkable journey towards smoother skin. I will talk about this case, acne scar treatments, accure laser, pico laser and more.

This patient, like many others, came to me after years of struggling with ineffective treatments and limited access to healthcare providers. After multiple sessions combining various techniques, his skin is now nearly scarless. He’s thrilled with the results and finds it difficult to spot any remaining scars even under different lighting conditions. It’s truly gratifying to see such transformative outcomes.

acne scar treatments

Treatment Protocols and Techniques

For this patient, I employed a multi-step approach:

  1. Subcision : This technique involves breaking up the fibrous bands that pull down scars, allowing them to lift.
  2. Fully Ablative CO2 Laser : Used to smooth out the edges of scars and stimulate collagen production.
  3. Bellafill : A permanent filler used to restore volume lost due to scarring.
  4. TCA Cross : Applied to target deeper scars by promoting collagen formation.
  5. Sculptra : Injected through laser channels to further enhance collagen stimulation.

Each step played a crucial role in achieving the final result. The combination of these methods ensured comprehensive treatment tailored specifically to his needs.


Understanding the Role of Oil Glands in Acne and How Accure Laser Can Help

One critical aspect of acne treatment revolves around managing oil glands. Excessive oil production often exacerbates acne, leading to more significant scarring over time. Traditional treatments focus on reducing oil output temporarily, but advancements like the Accure Laser offer a more permanent solution. By targeting oil glands directly at 1726 nanometers, the Accure Laser shrinks these glands, normalizing sebum production without causing surface damage. This means fewer acne breakouts and less dependency on topical treatments.


The Importance of Patient Lifestyle and Support Systems

Another vital factor in successful acne and scar treatment is the patient's lifestyle and support system. Many patients worry about societal judgment or work-related repercussions when undergoing such procedures. However, my experience shows that most people are incredibly supportive. For instance, this New Mexico patient shared that his workplace was entirely understanding, encouraging him to prioritize his health and well-being. Having a supportive environment significantly reduces stress and aids recovery. Therefore, fostering open communication with family, friends, and colleagues can make the treatment journey smoother and more effective.


Questions Answered

Here are some common questions I received during my live session:c

  • Question : Doc, is the result permanent?
    Dr. Qazi : While we significantly soften the texture, some minor scarring might persist due to natural volume loss over time. However, Bellafill provides lasting support since 20% remains permanently.
  • Question : Does the Accure Laser have downtime?
    Dr. Qazi : No, the Accure Laser has minimal downtime. You might experience mild redness that subsides quickly, typically within five minutes post-procedure.
  • Question : Hello Dr. Qazi, is there any difference between AviClear and Accure?
    Dr. Qazi : Both operate at 1726 nanometers targeting oil glands. The key difference is real-time feedback with Accure, ensuring precise temperature control for optimal results. Additionally, Kater, the company behind AviClear, faces financial challenges affecting its support infrastructure.
  • Question : Does the Accure Laser reduce acne?
    Dr. Qazi : Absolutely. By reducing oil gland activity, the Accure Laser helps normalize sebum production, mitigating acne triggers related to hormonal fluctuations or dietary choices.
  • Question : Can tretinoin help fill out box scars and rolling scars when using it regularly for a long time?
    Dr. Qazi : Tretinoin stimulates some collagen production and may slightly reduce scar diameter, but it won’t sufficiently address deep scars alone.
  • Question : What concentration of TCA cross do you usually use?
    Dr. Qazi : Concentration varies based on scar depth and skin type, ranging from 30% to 90%. For darker skin tones, lower concentrations applied more frequently work effectively.
  • Question : What would you say is a risk of subcision?
    Dr. Qazi : Potential risks include hematoma (collection of blood), fat pad displacement, and ligament damage. Proper technique and precautions minimize these risks.
  • Question : Hey doctor, how can I submit my pictures for your lives?
    Dr. Qazi : Visit drqazi.com/resources and use our form to submit photos. We review submissions for potential showcasing during live sessions.
  • Question : Had a fat transfer with subcision once swelling went down; results diminish. Do results get better?
    Dr. Qazi : Fat transfers contain stem cells beneficial for scarring, but volume loss may necessitate additional treatments like Bellafill for sustained improvement.
  • Question : What is the healing process like for a patient that has gone through subcision? Is it long, and is it better to do in the winter when I'm not under the sun?
    Dr. Qazi : Swelling lasts about four days, peaking in the first week. Summer is our busiest season due to lifestyle flexibility, but sun protection is essential regardless of timing.
  • Question : Why are there so few skin boosters in the US compared to Asian countries?
    Dr. Qazi : Regulatory hurdles and industry dynamics favor larger corporations, making it challenging for smaller companies to gain FDA approval for innovative products.
  • Question : How do I remove PIE?
    Dr. Qazi : Excel V laser targets discrete red spots effectively. Topical creams like azelaic acid also aid in fading post-inflammatory erythema.
  • Question : What did I do for the indented scars? 
    Dr. Qazi
    : Subcision breaks up tethered scar tissue, lifting it. Volume replacement with fillers addresses fat loss associated with indentations.
  • Question : Do you feel most patients that come in are in their 40s? That's when collagen loss becomes more noticeable, putting more emphasis on their scars.
    Dr. Qazi : Our demographic spans various ages, primarily 20s to early 40s. Collagen loss indeed highlights existing scars, prompting treatment interest.
  • Question : If I have acne scars at 20, can they still go away?
    Dr. Qazi : Yes, age doesn’t limit treatment effectiveness. Results may take longer, but significant improvements are achievable.
  • Question : I dissolved my lip filler three times and still feel buildup on the inside of my lips. Any advice?
    Dr. Qazi : Consider an ultrasound evaluation to locate residual filler accurately. Removal costs approximately $200.
  • Question : Does skin naturally heal scars?
    Dr. Qazi : Superficial scars may improve naturally if oil levels remain controlled, facilitating collagen regeneration.
  • Question : What cost would ultrasound be and then dissolving?
    Dr. Qazi : Ultrasound assessment followed by dissolving typically costs around $200. Consultation fees apply towards subsequent procedures.
  • Question : Is subcision different from microneedling?
    Dr. Qazi : Yes, subcision targets underlying scar tissue directly, whereas microneedling affects superficial layers, offering limited benefits for severe scars.
  • Question : What are some common things that could go wrong when other people do subcision?
    Dr. Qazi : Complications include scarring from insufficient numbing, hematomas causing loose skin, and displaced fat pads leading to aesthetic issues.
  • Question : If I have lost fat due to my acne scars and I need subcision to break up those tissues, would I need filler to fill it up or would the subcision just do it?
    Dr. Qazi : Subcision lifts scars and stimulates collagen, but substantial fat loss requires additional volumizing agents like Bellafill or Sculptra.
  • Question : My friend had subcision by her temple and it was caved in. Do you know why that is?
    Dr. Qazi : Possible causes include localized fat destruction, uneven scar release, or displaced filler creating a “donut effect.”
  • Question : What’s the longest-lasting lip filler?
    Dr. Qazi : Typically, lip fillers last about one year, though duration varies individually.
  • Question : Dr. Qazi, how do I manage my oily skin before I am able to make an appointment with you?
    Dr. Qazi : Start with retinoids like tretinoin and maintain consistent moisturization and sun protection. Longer-term solutions involve Accutane or Accure Laser treatments.
  • Question : Microneedling RF – which millimeter of depth should we do each pass? Will it differ based on the machine? Is 3 millimeters okay?
    Dr. Qazi : Depth depends on treatment goals and machine specifications. Generally, avoid exceeding 2 millimeters in facial areas prone to heat sensitivity.
  • Question : Hey doctor, I’ve been using the pigment control, and there’s a slight burning feeling when I apply it. Is that normal?
    Dr. Qazi : Mild burning sensations are typical initially but should subside as your skin adjusts.
  • Question : What procedures did I get/did I do for my own scars?
    Dr. Qazi : Personal treatments included subcision, fully ablative CO2 laser, erbium lasers every six months, and Bellafill for volume restoration.
  • Question : After how many Accure sessions do people start to clear up?
    Dr. Qazi : Most patients see clearance after three sessions, though some require four.
  • Question : Hi Qazi, what can be used to speed up Pico laser treatments for pigmentation? And can your pigmentation cream be bought from South Africa?
    Dr. Qazi : Combining Pico laser with beef tallow enhances efficacy. Currently, our pigmentation cream availability is restricted to clinic patients, but international distribution plans are underway.
  • Question : What is the difference between erbium and CO2 lasers?
    Dr. Qazi : Erbium lasers ablate with less heat, suitable for darker skin types. CO2 lasers offer deeper penetration and vessel coagulation, ideal for thick scar remodeling.
  • Question : How far apart can you do Accure Laser sessions?
    Dr. Qazi : Sessions are spaced monthly, totaling three to four sessions for most patients.

Final Thoughts

Treating acne and scars is both an art and a science. With advanced techniques like the Accure Laser and personalized treatment plans, achieving smooth, confident skin is within reach. Whether you’re dealing with longstanding scars or seeking preventive measures, understanding these options empowers you to make informed decisions about your skincare journey.


View all

Back to blog