Facial acne and acne scars
Facial acne isn’t just a problem for teenagers.
It affects millions of people of all ages, leaves physical scars that can last for years, and has an emotional impact that is often underestimated. Whether you are dealing with active acne or the scars it has left behind, modern aesthetic medicine and dermatology now offer effective solutions: personalised treatments, state-of-the-art laser technologies and clinical protocols that tackle the problem at its root, delivering visible and long-lasting results.
Facial acne: a condition that warrants medical treatment
Facial acne is a chronic inflammatory condition of the hair follicle: when the sebaceous glands produce excess sebum, the pores become clogged and provide a breeding ground for bacterial growth, leading to the appearance of comedones, papules, pustules and, in the most severe cases, nodules and cysts. It has hormonal, genetic and inflammatory causes, which require a thorough clinical assessment before any treatment is undertaken.
Teenage acne and adult acne
While teenage acne is widely recognised, adult acne is far more common than people realise. It mainly affects women aged between 25 and 45, often in a persistent or late-onset form, with lesions appearing predominantly on the chin, jaw and neck. The causes are often hormonal, linked to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, contraception and stress, and require a different treatment approach to that used for teenage acne. Seeking treatment from a specialist doctor for targeted aesthetic medicine treatment for adult acne can make the difference between temporary results and effective long-term management.
Mild, moderate and severe acne
Not all acne is the same. The severity of the condition determines the choice of treatment: mild cases respond well to topical treatments and chemical peels; moderate cases require a combined approach; and severe cases require a structured dermatological management plan. In all cases, the dermatological treatment for facial acne always begins with a thorough medical assessment.
The marks left by acne
Even after acne has cleared, it can leave behind marks that are difficult to ignore, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, red or brown marks, and acne scars, such as depressed (atrophic) scars, ice pick scars, and boxcar scars, which can permanently alter the skin's texture if left untreated. Acne scars on the face are often the most long-lasting consequence of the condition, and require specific treatment, distinct from that used for active acne.
Facial acne treatment: the solutions offered by our centre
Studio Garavaglia offers personalised treatments for facial acne, which always begin with a thorough clinical assessment: type of acne, severity, skin phototype, treatment history and the patient’s goals. It is only on the basis of these factors that a bespoke treatment plan is drawn up, designed to address both active inflammation and scarring simultaneously.
Chemical peels for acne
Chemical peels are a valuable treatment option for facial acne and its superficial after-effects. The controlled application of exfoliating acids (salicylic, glycolic, mandelic or trichloroacetic, as appropriate) accelerates cell turnover, reduces pore clogging, regulates sebum production and reduces post-acne hyperpigmentation. These treatments are well tolerated and can be carried out in the clinic in just a few minutes; they form an effective part of a comprehensive facial acne treatment programme as a regular step for maintenance and control.
RFX: non-ablative fractional laser for acne scars
The RFX is a non-ablative fractional laser: it works by creating micro-columns of treatment in the deep layers of the dermis without removing the surface layer of the skin. This feature makes it ideal for anyone looking for an effective laser treatment for facial acne scars that involves a short recovery time. It stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin in the scarred area, gradually improving the skin’s texture, reducing the depth of indentations and minimising associated discolouration. It is ideal for superficial and medium-depth scars and for post-acne hyperpigmentation, and is suitable for different skin phototypes thanks to its high safety profile.
CO₂: ablative fractional laser for deep acne scars
The ablative fractional CO₂ laser is the gold standard treatment for deep acne scars and marked changes in skin texture. Unlike non-ablative lasers, the CO₂ laser removes the treated columns of tissue in a controlled manner, inducing more intense and deeper regeneration: the dermis reorganises itself, scars are filled in from within, and the skin’s surface gradually becomes more even and smoother. It is the best treatment for acne scars for those with deep pitted scars or significant boxcar scars. It requires a longer recovery time than non-ablative laser treatment: generally 5–7 days for redness and peeling, but it delivers significant and long-lasting results after fewer sessions.
Acne and scars: two problems, one integrated approach
One of the most common mistakes is to treat active acne and acne scars as two separate problems, to be tackled at different times without taking a holistic view. In fact, the most effective comprehensive treatment for facial acne is one that, from the outset, addresses both the management of active inflammation and the prevention and treatment of scarring.
At our clinic, this integrated approach is standard practice: Dr Garavaglia develops treatment plans in which the different stages of care – acne control, texture improvement and scar reduction – are aligned in a consistent and coordinated way, with the aim of achieving healthier, more even and clearer skin in the shortest possible time.
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Getting rid of acne scars: realistic expectations
Acne scars are structural changes in the dermis. They don’t disappear with creams, and they can’t be removed in a single session. However, with the right treatment – chosen according to the type of scar, its depth and the skin phototype – they can improve significantly and measurably over the course of the treatment programme.
Fractional lasers – both ablative and non-ablative – are currently the most effective treatments for safely and professionally removing facial acne scars. The choice between CO2 and RFX depends on the depth of the scars and the patient’s willingness to accept longer recovery times: the doctor will guide you through this decision during the consultation, honestly and without making unrealistic promises.
Why choose Studio Garavaglia?
Dr Garavaglia will assess the case, clearly explain the available options and draw up a treatment plan that takes into account the person as a whole, not just the cosmetic issue to be corrected.
With over twenty years’ experience in cosmetic dermatology and laser technologies selected for their effectiveness and safety, Studio Garavaglia is the go-to clinic for anyone seeking a professional solution for facial acne, in Milan and throughout Italy.
Book a consultation
Do you suffer from active acne, or do you want to get rid of acne scars? Start with a medical assessment. Dr Garavaglia will assess your situation and suggest the most suitable course of action.