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    Acne Scarring

    Acne Scarring


    111 Harley St. are rated an average of 5 out of 5 based on 1376 reviews

    Acne scarring can occur due to infection or inflammation or when there has not been an early enough intervention to treat the symptoms. The bacteria and dead skin cells within the pore can cause the follicle wall to collapse, creating a lesion, scar, or inflammatory hyperpigmentation. As the skin attempts to rebuild and repair itself, the collagen fibres can sometimes struggle to create a smooth texture or colour.

    What Are The Symptoms?

    The types of acne scarring are variable. Acne scars that form due to a loss of tissue are ‘atrophic’, whereas those that occur due to excessive tissue growth are ‘hypertrophic’. These categories can be broken down into further types of scars.

    At 111 Harley St., your practitioner will examine your scars thoroughly to determine the best course of treatment.

    Post-Inflammatory Pigmentation

    Post-inflammatory pigmentation occurs when the spots leave behind a patch of discolouration due to inflammation. Trauma triggers the skin to produce too much melanin in the area. The scar will usually be flat and can vary in colour, though it is typically red, brown, purple or dark grey to black depending on your skin colour and type.

    Ice Pick Scar

    Ice pick scars have a deep, hole like appearance and look as though a needle may have pierced the skin leaving a small but deep open hole behind. They may be mistaken for an open pore. This type of acne scarring forms due to damage to the tissue, often because of an infection.

    Boxcar

    Boxcar scars have a rounded, pitted appearance. They are wider but less deep than ice pick scars. They can occur due to inflammation which damages the underlying collagen and support structure of the skin.

    Rolling Scar

    Rolling scars create an overall uneven texture to the skin. The indentations are generally very close together causing a subtle bumpy, wavy and uneven complexion, with a wide and shallow appearance. They occur due to damage underneath the surface level of the skin, pulling on the epidermis.

    Keloid Scar

    Keloid scars develop due to an excessive growth of collagen. These are thick (and sometimes itchy) clusters of scar tissue which grow beyond the edge of the original wound and are often red or darker in colour. You can identify them by their raised and firm appearance.

    A hypertrophic scar is like a keloid scar, and is usually red and raised, but the scar tissue usually stays within the edges of the original wound.

    Who It Can Affect?

    28% of people within the UK have reportedly had at least one bout of acne at some point during their lifetime. Of which, 39% were unaware of how to handle their specific type of acne. 

    Without proficient knowledge of how to effectively treat acne, acne scarring can occur. You can learn more about the different types of acne and how to manage them here.

    Your skin type and colour and genetics will influence how your skin responds to acne and what kind of scarring will form.

    Causes

    Acne scars can form due to infection or inflammation of a spot or breakout, such as a blockage within the pore. If the pore enlarges, it can rupture under pressure breaking the follicle wall and causing permanent damage to its lining and the healthy surrounding dermis. As the skin attempts to repair itself, it creates new collagen in its place, but this is not always as smooth as it once was.

    When there is a loss of scar tissue, scars can appear as ice pick, boxcar or rolling scars, and when there is too much collagen, scars become hypertrophic or form keloid scars.

    Treatment Options

    There are various treatments available for acne scarring, which are dependent on the severity of the scarring and your suitability for treatment. Your treatment programme could entail a combination approach to help you achieve the best results. Your practitioner may also recommend additional products that will optimise your results and encourage fibroblast activity to repair the scars and improve overall skin texture.

    Potenza Price

    Potenza RF Microneedling

    The 4-mode microneedling system will benefit those that suffer from any form of acne scarring. The treatment uses nine different tips and single-needled handpieces to deliver shallow and deep treatments to precisely texturally improve the skin and stimulate the skin’s natural healing process overall.

    Potenza can treat and improve all types of acne scarring that have been both persistent and stubborn on the skin and body. As the treatment triggers collagen and elastin production, this process helps smooth and improve texture, even skin and repair scars. The needle technology requires minimal downtime and in a fraction of the time, meaning this is the latest treatment for skin rejuvenation that can be done all year round.

    The treatment will start with a thorough consultation where you will discuss the treatment, goals and expected results with our expert practitioners. We will then assess your skin and devise a suitable and bespoke acne programme utilising our Potenza treatment.

    During the treatment, expect ultrafine needles to pass over the face or body with radiofrequency energy to trigger new collagen and elastin. The specialised ‘Tiger Tip’ technology comes at two different depths of treatment in one pass, reducing discomfort and treating more tissue simultaneously. Potenza also has a patented ‘cushion plus’ technology where collagen stimulators can be delivered with precise depth to release RF energy and help remodel scars and stimulate collagen overall.

    This treatment is suitable for all skin types but works exceptionally well on those who suffer from acne, acne scarring, and texture concerns due to the skin condition.

    Typically results can be seen immediately after, but the building of collagen and elastin can be expected to be seen anywhere between 4-6 weeks after treatment, with results lasting up to 18 weeks.

    The microneedling tip is placed on the epidermis. The microneedles then penetrate the tissue at different depths for optimal results. They simultaneously use radiofrequency energy to be directly applied to the targeted area. As a result, collagen and elastin production begins post-treatment, with results seen even weeks after.

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    iPixel

    iPixel

    iPixel is a fractional ablative laser that targets acne scars by inducing controlled microthermal damage. The surrounding areas replace the treated tissue and promote collagen growth to plump scars and improve skin texture.

    This treatment is suitable for textural scarring or uneven skin texture. However, iPixel isn’t suitable for darker skin types as it can cause further hyperpigmentation. For those with darker skin types, your practitioner may recommend alternative treatment methods to improve your acne scarring.

    Your consultation will determine your suitability for treatment.

    The nurse will apply a numbing cream to minimise discomfort during treatment. We will configure the depth depending on the area and concern, and the device will make a few passes over your skin, delivering bursts of energy.

    After the iPixel treatment, you may notice square formations with tiny pinprick dots on the skin. The nurse will apply a topical serum to minimise these marks.

    The fractional ablative laser treatment delivers precise beams of energy in a pixel-size formation to target specific cells. The surrounding cells remain intact, which speeds up healing. The heat from the energy destroys the injured or damaged cells and stimulates collagen production to remodel and fill in the area with new healthy cells.

    Most patients require 4-8 sessions. One session every 4-6 weeks depending on the severity of the skin concern.

    Numbing cream is applied for 20 minutes, followed by the treatment, which takes approximately 30 minutes.

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    Dermapen

    Dermapen & PRP

    At 111 Harley St., we often combine both Dermapen and PRP together to treat acne scarring due to their healing properties and ability to improve a multitude of acne scars and all skin types by improving overall skin tone and texture.

    Microneedling uses a small hand-held device with varying needle depths ranging from 0.5mm and 3mm that create a minor trauma to the dermal layers. The process breaks down stubborn scar tissue and triggers the formation of new collagen, making it suitable for many types of acne scarring.

    Additionally, platelet-rich plasma therapy improves the appearance of acne scars through by retaining the patient’s platelet-rich fibrin matrix. When your nurse re-injects this back into the skin, it encourages wound healing and promotes the growth of new collagen.

    The Dermapen treatment usually begins with the application of a topical numbing cream. Using a hand-held pen-like device, the nurse will then make several passes over the entire face.

    The collagen inducing Dermapen creates virtually invisible micro-injuries in the skin that ignite the body’s healing and regenerative processes. This influx of collagen and elastin and release of growth factors results in an improvement of overall skin smoothness, suppleness, and strength.

    Additionally, the micro-channels allow for optimal absorption of active ingredients to enhance their results and increase their efficiency.

    Immediately after the treatment, you may notice tiny pinpricks of blood. The nurse will usually pat the face down after which point; the skin will no longer draw blood.

    Your skin may be red for up to 24 hours and will gradually resolve throughout the following week. It may also feel a little rough, warm and dry for the first couple of days after your treatment and may begin to flake.

    We recommend 4-6 treatment sessions. Every four weeks.

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    Lightfinity

    Lightfinity Express Facial

    This gentle facial is most suitable for mild scarring that may be hypertrophic. The acne scarring may be visible without makeup but ais concealable.

    The low-light therapy can improve tissue oxygenation and encourage healing. With red, blue and near-infrared wavelengths, the facial can reduce inflammation and decrease the redness associated with acne scarring. Its ability to restore and optimise skin cell functions with no downtime makes it suitable for all skin types, and we encourage the facial as part of any skin maintenance programme.

    • Acne scarring and other types of wounds
    • Dry and dull skin
    • Wrinkles and fine lines
    • Rough texture
    • Inflammation and skin conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis
    • Hyperpigmentation and age spots
    • Sun damage
    • Muscle and joint pain
    • Acne
    • Stimulates collagen production to reduce fine lines and wrinkles
    • Combats dullness
    • Increases hydration
    • Improves hyperpigmentation, age spots and sun damage
    • Reduces inflammation and symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions
    • Improves tone and texture of the skin
    • Improves acne scarring and accelerates wound healing
    • Boosts skin health
    • Eases muscle and joint pains and spasms
    • Reduces bacteria associated with acne

    Celluma LED light therapy works to calm redness and inflammation by triggering the body’s natural repair mechanisms. The treatment promotes overall skin health by improving circulation and boosts your skincare regime by allowing greater absorption of skincare ingredients.

    Phototherapy can alter biological activity to encourage skin cells to improve their performance and efficiency- this process can promote the body’s healing mechanisms to speed up tissue repair and fortify the skin’s epidermal barrier. In turn, this can improve inflammatory skin conditions (and their symptoms) like psoriasis and dermatitis.

    LED light therapy can also kill acne bacteria to help reduce acne, while fibroblast activity synthesises collagen production to improve acne scars (and other wounds) and skin texture.

    Approximately 1 hour.

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    Dermal Filler

    Dermal Fillers

    In some circumstances, we can use dermal fillers to fill and plump certain types of scarring. We may combine this approach with laser treatment to treat more severe scars.

    While the laser treatments can restructure and break down tight internal structures that are depressing the skin, dermal fillers can fill the depression with hyaluronic acid to create a uniform and smoother skin surface.

    Approximately 15-30 minutes, depending on the number of areas. Numbing cream will require an additional 20 minutes to apply before treatment.

    You may experience redness, bruising and swelling following your treatment which should subside within 1-3 days.

    Filler dissolves naturally over time. Your aesthetician will discuss the associated risks and side effects with you during your consultation.

    Other side effects and risks include:

    • Pain
    • Tenderness
    • Firmness, lumps and bumps – lumps and bumps can often be massaged out and will settle within a week or two of treatment. For massaging instructions, you should consult your aesthetician. If the bumps remain, you may desire to have the bump dissolved.
    • Itching
    • Dryness – relatively common after lip fillers.
    • Tyndall effect causes a blue tinge that is visible through the skin and can occur as a complication of tear trough fillers. This effect is more likely to present itself if the patient has particularly thin skin, or if the filler is placed too superficially under the skin.
    • Blindness- It’s more likely to occur when injected into areas like the nose.
    • Tissue death – More likely to in injectable areas like the naso lines or nose.
    • Scarring
    • Scabbing
    • Infection

    Dermal fillers are non-permanent with results lasting between 4-9 months depending on your metabolism and the type of filler. Lip fillers tend to break down slightly faster, lasting between 3-6 months. Some filler types offer more permanency, lasting up to a year. Longevity varies from patient to patient.

    You may experience swelling and bruising around the injection site which should subside with a week.

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    Chemical Skin Peels

    Chemical Skin Peels

    A chemical skin peel varies in strengths, depths, and ingredients to help fight acne scarring, and to stimulate collagen and elastin production, promoting the growth of new cells.

    Some ingredients within the peels will also remove excess oil from the skin and kill acne-creating bacteria, making it suitable for ongoing acne management.

    We offer several types of skin peels at 111 Harley St. that are suitable for post-inflammatory pigmentation, or superficial acne scars.

    The treatment begins with a consultation where your practitioner will assess your skin to decipher your skin conditions and the best course of treatment.

    Certain peels like Cosmelan or Enerpeel may require skin preparation with the use of at-home products in the lead up to your appointment. Your practitioner will prescribe a list of recommended products that will be suitable for you or provide you with the appropriate preparation kit.

    If we’re treating you with a Cosmelan peel, we’ll require you to use a prepping de-pigmentation kit before your initial treatment to prepare your skin for the peel.

    During your treatment, your practitioner will double cleanse and prepare the skin by applying a barrier cream around sensitive areas and remove all sebum to aid penetration of the acids.

    Following this, we will apply the peel of choice and leave it on for a few minutes before neutralising or removing the peel. A neutraliser will prevent the acid from working on the skin, whereas a removal wipe will leave the acid active on the skin to continue improving the complexion following treatment.

    Chemical skin peels are suitable for anyone who is looking for overall skin rejuvenation and an improvement in skin tone and texture. Or, those who have:

    • Acne
    • Acne scars
    • Pigmentation and sun-spots
    • Mild actinic keratosis
    • Moderate wrinkles or fine lines
    • Rosacea
    • Large or open pores
    • Crepey skin

    The duration of the treatment will depend on your custom needs. Some peels may be left on for longer, depending on your needs and tolerance to treatment. Typically, it’ll take around 30 minutes.

    Chemical skin peels vary in strength and substance and are either superficial, medium or deep depending on your skin concerns and skin type.

    The acids and other active compounds react with the skin and dissolve the outermost layers of the skin to reveal a fresher, clearer and brighter complexion. Chemical skin peels also promote collagen and elastin growth that will encourage the growth of healthier skin.

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    Meostherapy

    Mesotherapy

    Mesotherapy is a rejuvenating injectable treatment that is suitable for those who suffer from acne scars but also may not be suitable for laser treatments. The blend of skin-enhancing ingredients can improve post-inflammatory pigmentation and enhance collagen levels to help repair pitted scars.

    Mesotherapy is an injectable treatment that delivers a custom combination of skin-enhancing ingredients to your complexion.

    During your consultation, we will discuss your skin concerns to determine which formulation the nurse will administer through your Mesotherapy treatment. It will usually contain a blend of hyaluronic acid, vitamins and amino acids.

    Before your treatment, we may apply a topical numbing cream to your skin.

    Through a series of fine injections, a bespoke blend of peptides, growth factors and antioxidants are delivered into the mesoderm (the middle layer of the skin) from between 1-4mm beneath your skin to improve skin quality and function.

    This treatment takes approximately 30 minutes – 1 hour.

    The skin’s barrier function plays a vital role in protecting your skin from environmental aggressors such as pollutants, UV damage and irritants. When working optimally, your skin counteracts the harmful free radical damage that scavenges your healthy skin cells. However, with natural ageing, sun damage and other external forces, your skin cell barrier function weakens.

    Lipids made up of cholesterol, ceramides, and fatty acid form the barrier to prevent microrganisms and irritants entering the skin and protect it from Transepidermal water loss. When the skin barrier is weak, the skin can become dry, irritated and inflamed.

    Mesotherapy is one way to encourage the restoration of your skin cell barrier function and restore your natural moisturising factors, to help bring your skin back to optimal health.

    With over 60 different ingredient combinations, we can adapt the Mesotherapy to your skin’s needs. With an efficient transportation system and a surge in skin-loving ingredients, skin cell function improves, and the skin repair barrier becomes more resilient to environmental aggressors and other ageing factors.

    Generally, a patient will need around ten sessions to see optimal results. The number of treatments required will vary from patient to patient, depending on the patient’s skin concerns.

    These sessions are usually weekly for the first month, every two weeks over the second month, and sporadically from then onwards depending on how your skin responds to treatment.

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    Request a Consultation

    Please note, all consultations are subject to the applicable consultation change or deposit.

    In-clinic OR Virtual Consultation

    Refundable £50 deposit required to secure your complimentary
    consultation, redeemable against treatment

    To request a consultation, please complete this form.

      Alternatively call our specialist patient advisors 0344 692 1111

      In-clinic OR Virtual Consultation

      Refundable £50 deposit required to secure your complimentary
      consultation, redeemable against treatment

      Harley St.

      111 Harley St. are rated an average of 5 out of 5 based on 1376 reviews

      Potenza has worked great for me, I have purchased a second course as it has done more than just work on my scars from acne it’s toned and lifted my skin- especially around lower face 🙂

      Hailun

      Rachael has really help my skin over the years with acne and the marks it has on and off left behind. I highly recommend this clinic for their skills and advance machines. I have been to more local clinics/salons and never received the same level of aftercare and thought with treatments for my face.

      Lily

      I am incredibly happy with the results from my first Potenza treatment with Rachael last month. My acne scars have already lightened in such a short space of time. Thank you

      Syra

      I am thrilled with my results after 6/7 Potenza for my acne scarring! I have tried many things with no success. 111 HARLEY ST. GIVE THE BEST ADVICE. Rachael preformed all of my treatments and done all with great care. Thank you.

      Patrick Mc

      Potenza helped tremendously with my acne scars! Violeta is amazing at providing the treatment!

      Xia
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      111 Harley St. are rated an average of 5 out of 5 based on 1376 reviews

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