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Acne Scarring Treatment at Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Acne scarring can persist long after active breakouts have resolved and may affect skin texture, tone, and confidence. At Dermatology Associates of Ithaca, we offer evidence-based treatments to improve the appearance of acne scars and create smoother, more even-looking skin. Treatment plans are customized based on scar type, skin type, and individual goals.
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What Causes Acne Scarring?

Acne scars form when inflammation damages the deeper layers of the skin. As the skin heals, it may produce too little or too much collagen, leading to permanent changes in texture. Acne scarring can vary in appearance and severity, and different scar types respond best to different treatments.

Common types of acne scars include:

  • Atrophic scars (depressed scars such as ice pick, boxcar, or rolling scars)
  • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots left behind after acne heals)
  • Textural irregularities affecting overall skin smoothness
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How Acne Scarring Is Treated

Treatment for acne scarring depends on the type and depth of scarring. Your provider will evaluate your skin and recommend an individualized treatment plan, which may include one or more of the following:
  • Laser-based treatments to stimulate collagen production
  • Skin resurfacing procedures to improve texture
  • Targeted treatments to address pigmentation and discoloration
Many patients benefit from a series of treatments to achieve optimal results.

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Treatment Details

A consultation is required to determine the most appropriate treatment approach
Treatment time varies depending on the modality used
Some procedures involve minimal downtime, while others may require short recovery periods
Gradual improvement is expected as the skin heals and collagen remodels
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What Results Can I Expect?

Acne scar treatments are designed to improve the appearance of scars, not completely erase them. Most patients experience:
  • Smoother skin texture
  • Improved skin tone
  • Reduced visibility of scars over time
Results vary depending on scar type, skin characteristics, and the number of treatments performed.
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Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Risks & Considerations

Possible side effects depend on the treatment used and may include:
  • Temporary redness or swelling
  • Mild discomfort during or after treatment
  • Temporary changes in skin color
Your provider will review potential risks, expected downtime, and aftercare instructions during your consultation.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for acne scar treatment if:
  • Your acne is well controlled or inactive
  • You are bothered by textural changes or discoloration from past acne
  • You are in overall good health and have realistic expectations
Certain treatments may not be recommended for patients who are pregnant, actively tanning, or have specific skin conditions.
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Before & After Care

Before treatment, your provider may recommend:
Avoiding sun exposure and tanning
Adjusting certain skincare products or medications
After treatment:
Sun protection is essential
Follow all post-treatment skincare instructions to support healing and results

Frequently Asked Questions

Can acne scars be completely removed?

Most acne scar treatments significantly improve appearance but do not completely eliminate scars.

How many treatments are needed?

Many patients require a series of treatments, depending on scar severity and treatment type.

Is there downtime?

Downtime varies by treatment. Some procedures allow a quick return to normal activities, while others require short recovery periods.

When will I see results?

Some improvement may be seen early, but collagen remodeling and skin renewal occur gradually over weeks to months.

Interested in Treating Acne Scars?

Our dermatology team will work with you to create a personalized plan focused on safe, effective improvement of acne scarring.
Call: (607) 257-1107
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What Our Patients Say

4.9
stars rating on Google with 950+ reviews
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Karen F.

I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

RJ and MJ Olson

We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

Cathy Robinson

The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

Susan Zeller

As a new patient I greatly appreciated getting an appointment with a few days of submitting my application form instead of a long wait. The staff at the front desk were very pleasant, efficient and helpful in making this happen. The service I received from my doctor was good.

Tom

David M was great in all key areas that were important to me. Skill, bedside manner, updates during the surgery and his summary after the procedure. His nurse was also first rate. Thank you both for all that you did for me. NP Donna has treated me previously at this practice and I echo my comments here for her and the nurses, reception and scheduling employees. Thank you all for a great experience

Jennifer Gemmell

This was the most pleasant doctors appointment I’ve ever experienced. The wait wasn’t too long and there were so many beautiful and interesting things to look at while I was there: beautiful art well presented with identification and background details, fascinating terrariums and other plants, and even an Asian meditation garden. Dr. Macallister was very personable, professional and thorough. I was quite happy with her care. The staff too, were professional and pleasant.

Reece W

Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

Don Wood

Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

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