The current options for ablative treatment of acne scars would be mostly limited to :
- Fractional Co2 laser
- Fractional Erbium laser
- Fractional RF
I would say that for easy understanding, fractional CO2 has the best results because it is able to penetrate deeper into the skin. However, it’s a double edged sword and has much higher chances of side effects like PIH ( Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) and Hypopigmentation.
Fractional Erbium and Fractional RF were developed precisely because of the higher chances of those side effects, and thus they do not penetrate as deep or ablate as strongly. However, they still give a good result with much lower chances of side effects.
Thus, your idea that fractional RF goes deeper than fractional CO2 is likely not true, based on the above principles.
To help you decide, mainly you need to think through the following factors :
- Are you still having active acne? If yes, you will need treatment for that first. There’s no point treating the scars if you are still having active acne. It’s like trying to fill a bucket of water to the brim but the bottom has a hole continuously leaking. You need to plug the hole first. There are many options and if your keen to find out more, you can send another question on Human.
- How much downtime can you afford? The deeper the laser, the longer the downtime and the more conscientious you need to be with your post-laser recovery. You’ll need to apply more recovery products as well.
- Are you willing to take the risks of PIH/Hypopigmentation ? This is more pronounced if you have a darker skin type. There are always risks with every medical treatment.
- Cost
Hope that helps!
