Acne scars and rosacea require distinct non-surgical aesthetic treatments due to their differing mechanisms—scars involve texture and collagen deficits, while rosacea centers on vascular inflammation and redness.
PurposeAcne scar treatments rebuild collagen to smooth depressions or flatten elevations (ice pick, boxcar, rolling, hypertrophic), while rosacea therapies reduce redness, telangiectasia, inflammation, and triggers to calm flares and protect the barrier.ProcedureAcne scars are addressed via microneedling (micro-injuries), chemical peels or TCA CROSS (exfoliation), dermal fillers or subcision (volume/fibrous release), and corticosteroid injections (collagen breakdown). Rosacea uses LED light (anti-inflammatory wavelengths), gentle peels (lactic/mandelic), and prescribed topicals.BenefitsMicroneedling, peels, and subcision noticeably soften atrophic scars over sessions; fillers and injections provide quick contour improvement for depressed or raised types. Rosacea benefits from reduced flushing, even tone, and fewer pustules via LED and mild peels, with topicals sustaining barrier health.RisksAcne treatments risk temporary redness, swelling, pigmentation shifts (higher in darker skin), or infection; subcision may cause bruising. Rosacea options carry irritation, dryness, or paradoxical flushing if too aggressive, especially with peels on sensitive skin.AftercareAvoid sun, heat, actives, and makeup for 3-7 days post-procedure; use gentle cleansers, hyaluronic acid, and mineral SPF 50+. For rosacea, adhere to trigger avoidance (spicy food, alcohol, heat) and monitor flares.AlternativesLaser resurfacing or PRP enhances acne scars; oral antibiotics or vascular lasers suit rosacea. Topicals like retinoids (cautiously for scars) or metronidazole provide standalone options; cosmetic camouflage bridges gaps.SafetyDoctor-led assessment differentiates conditions to avoid mis-treatment; patch tests, conservative strengths, and multi-modal plans tailored to skin type ensure low complications and realistic, gradual improvements.