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Case study: Dr Abdullah Naqibullah addresses acne scars and sun damage with CO2 laser & Microneedling RF.

Understanding Acne Scars: Origins and Implications
Acne scars are a common yet deeply impactful skin concern, often serving as a visible reminder of past struggles with acne. They form when inflamed blemishes penetrate the skin deeply, damaging the tissue beneath. The body, in an attempt to heal itself, produces collagen. Still, this repair process can either generate too much tissue, leading to raised scars (hypertrophic scars), or too little tissue, causing depressions (atrophic scars).

The origin of acne scars lies in the severity and type of acne lesions. Cystic acne, characterised by deep, inflamed cysts, is more likely to leave scars due to the extensive damage it causes to the dermis. Additionally, factors such as genetics, skin type, and improper handling of acne, like picking or squeezing, can exacerbate the risk of scarring.

Acne scars not only affect the skin, but also have a profound psychological impact. Many individuals with visible scars experience diminished self-esteem and social anxiety, making effective treatment essential not just for cosmetic reasons but for overall well-being.
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Laser Treatments for Acne Scars: Ablative vs. Non-Ablative Approaches

Laser treatments have become a cornerstone in managing acne scars, offering practical, minimally invasive solutions to improve skin texture and appearance. These treatments are typically categorised into two types: ablative and non-ablative lasers. Each approach has distinct mechanisms, benefits, and considerations, making them suitable for different types and severities of acne scars.
Ablative Laser Treatments
Ablative lasers work by removing the outer layers of damaged skin, promoting the growth of new, healthy skin and stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers. The two most common types of ablative lasers are CO2 lasers and Erbium lasers:
1️⃣ CO2 Laser:

🌟 Targets deep scars by vaporising the damaged tissue layer by layer.
🌟 It is ideal for ice-pick and boxcar scars as they penetrate deeper into the dermis.
🌟 Stimulates substantial collagen remodelling, leading to smoother and firmer skin.
🌟 Downtime: Typically 7–14 days, with visible redness lasting up to several weeks.
2️⃣ Erbium Laser:

🌟 Removes thinner layers of skin compared to CO2, making it suitable for moderate acne scars.
🌟 Causes less thermal damage, resulting in faster healing and less redness.
🌟 Downtime: Around 5–10 days, depending on the depth of treatment.
While ablative lasers offer dramatic results, they require a more extended recovery period and may involve risks like temporary discolouration, swelling, and sensitivity. Patients must adhere to strict aftercare to protect the healing skin.
Non-Ablative Laser Treatments
Non-ablative lasers, in contrast, do not remove the outer layers of the skin. Instead, they heat the underlying dermis to stimulate collagen production and skin tightening while leaving the surface intact. Popular options include fractional lasers and pulsed dye lasers (PDL):
1️⃣ Fractional Non-Ablative Lasers:

🌟 Deliver precise microbeams of light to targeted areas, creating microscopic zones of thermal injury that trigger collagen remodelling.
🌟 Effective for shallow scars and improving overall skin texture.
🌟 Downtime: Minimal, often just mild redness and swelling for 1–3 days.
2️⃣ Pulsed Dye Lasers (PDL):

🌟 Targets redness and discolouration associated with acne scars.
🌟 Reduces vascular components, improving the appearance of newer scars and post-inflammatory erythema.
🌟 Downtime: Typically none, though mild redness may persist for a few hours.
Choosing the Right Treatment
The choice between ablative and non-ablative laser treatments depends on several factors, including the type and severity of scars, skin type, downtime preferences, and patient goals. Ablative lasers are better suited for deep, severe scars but require more recovery time. In contrast, non-ablative lasers are ideal for patients seeking gradual improvements with minimal disruption to their daily lives.

Case Patient Profile and Treatment Rationale

Client Background:

✨ Name: Marta
✨ Age: 42
✨ Gender: Female
✨ Skin Type: Fitzpatrick Type III
✨ Lifestyle: Active outdoor lifestyle with minimal sun protection.
✨ Medical History: No known allergies or active skin conditions; occasional hormonal acne.


✨Primary Concerns: Atrophic acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin texture due to prolonged sun exposure.
Assessment and Concerns:
Marta’s skin presented a combination of atrophic acne scars, primarily boxcars and rolling scars on her cheeks, alongside uneven pigmentation and rough texture resulting from cumulative sun damage.

Her active outdoor lifestyle and minimal use of sun protection have contributed to hyperpigmentation and reduced skin hydration, making her skin appear dull and uneven.

Rationale for Treatment Plan:
Dr. Abdullah Naqibullah recommended a multi-modality treatment plan combining CO2 laser resurfacing, Microneedling RF, a gentle chemical peel, and a HydroDiamond facial with Zemits HydroClear Brightening Serum to address Marta’s skin concerns comprehensively:
1️⃣ CO2 Laser Resurfacing:

Chosen for its ability to effectively treat atrophic acne scars by removing damaged surface layers and stimulating new collagen production.
Particularly effective for deep scars and uneven texture, providing dramatic improvements in one session.
Pre- and post-treatment care will manage pigmentation risks associated with Fitzpatrick Type III skin.

2️⃣ Microneedling RF:

Works synergistically with the CO2 laser by delivering controlled heat to deeper layers of the skin, promoting collagen and elastin production.
Ideal for reducing the appearance of rolling scars and improving overall skin firmness and elasticity.
Minimal downtime makes it a suitable follow-up treatment to enhance results.
3️⃣ Gentle Chemical Peel:

Incorporated as a preparatory step to enhance the effectiveness of other treatments by exfoliating the uppermost skin layer, removing surface debris, and improving product absorption.
Supports skin renewal and brightens the complexion, complementing the outcomes of CO2 laser and Microneedling RF.

4️⃣ HydroDiamond Facial with Zemits HydroClear Brightening Serum:

Designed to restore hydration and brighten Marta’s skin, addressing dullness and dryness caused by her active outdoor lifestyle.
The Zemits HydroClear serum’s brightening properties target pigmentation and uneven skin tone, leaving the skin refreshed and glowing.
Gentle suction exfoliation from the hydro-diamond system enhances skin clarity and radiance.

Why This Comprehensive Approach?

This treatment plan was chosen to provide both immediate and long-term results for Marta’s multifaceted concerns. The CO2 laser and Microneedling RF address structural and textural issues, significantly improving scar depth, tone, and elasticity. The chemical peel and HydroDiamond facial with Zemits HydroClear Brightening Serum focuses on hydration, pigmentation correction, and surface-level brightness, creating a well-rounded rejuvenation process.
By combining these modalities, the plan minimises downtime while ensuring Marta’s skin receives intensive care tailored to her specific needs.
This holistic approach will leave her with smoother, brighter, and more youthful skin, boosting her confidence and enhancing her natural beauty.
Treatment Plan Overview
The treatment journey began with a detailed skin analysis to assess Marta’s acne scars, sun damage, and pigmentation. This assessment highlighted the presence of atrophic scars, uneven skin texture, and hyperpigmentation exacerbated by prolonged sun exposure.
The recommended treatment plan incorporated a dual-modality approach using Zemits RF Microneedling Device SKYFRAX PRO and Fractional CO2 laser CARBONFRAX PRO, ensuring a synergistic treatment for deep and surface-level skin concerns. Pre-treatment protocols included a daily regimen of SPF 50+ and hydrating serums to prepare the skin and minimise potential risks.

Treatment Protocol Details

1️⃣ Technology Used:

2️⃣ Session Frequency:
  • A single comprehensive treatment session was performed.
3️⃣ Treatment course:
  • A topical numbing cream was applied and left for 20 minutes to ensure patient comfort during the treatment.
  • Step 1: RF Microneedling targeted acne-scarred areas, delivering controlled thermal energy deep into the dermis to stimulate collagen remodelling and skin tightening.
  • Step 2: A single pass of Fractional CO2 laser was applied over the RF-treated areas. This further addressed sun damage, refined skin texture, and improved pigmentation, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the session.
  • Post-treatment care included cooling therapy and the application of soothing serums to reduce inflammation and support skin recovery.
  • Step 3: In 1 week, a Hydrodiamond facial was performed to restore the skin hydration barrier and brighten up for glowing smooth-looking skin.

4️⃣ Homecare Recommendations:
  • Daily application of SPF 50+ to protect the healing skin from UV damage.
  • Use of hyaluronic acid serums to maintain hydration and support skin repair.

Client Feedback and Outcomes

✅ Feedback:
Marta reported significant improvement in her skin within two weeks, noting better scar reduction and visible enhancements in overall texture and tone. While she experienced mild discomfort during the treatment, it was manageable and outweighed by the results.

✅ Results:
The treatment effectively reduced the depth of acne scars and improved skin clarity and smoothness. Marta’s complexion appeared brighter and more even, with sun damage visibly diminished.

Clinical Conclusion

The combined use of RF Microneedling and Fractional CO2 laser proved to be a highly effective strategy for treating acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and sun-damaged skin. RF Microneedling targeted deeper scar tissue, stimulating dermal remodelling, while Fractional CO2 laser enhanced surface texture and addressed pigmentation concerns.
This dual-modality approach offers patients like Marta a comprehensive solution for their skin concerns, providing immediate and long-term benefits. Complementary at-home care, including consistent sun protection and hydrating serums, was crucial in maintaining the treatment results and preventing further damage
This case highlights the importance of personalised, advanced aesthetic solutions in delivering impactful outcomes and restoring confidence for clients with complex skin concerns.
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