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Scar Removal Treatments

Scar Removal Treatments

Personalized Solutions to Improve the Appearance of Scars

Six laser platforms and regenerative medicine—built on over 40 years of clinical heritage originating from Anan Clinic.

The BSL Clinic Scar Treatment Program is a multimodal, evidence-based approach designed to improve the appearance of scars. By combining laser technologies, radiofrequency microneedling, and regenerative injectables, each treatment is carefully selected and sequenced using a clinically validated Scar Algorithm.

This comprehensive program addresses acne scars, surgical scars, traumatic and burn scars, chickenpox scars, hypertrophic scars, keloids, and pigmentation-related scars—helping promote smoother, healthier-looking skin.

What Are Scars
What Are Scars
What Are Scars

What Are Scars?

Scars are a natural part of the skin’s healing process following injury, inflammation, surgery, or infection. As the skin repairs itself, collagen fibers form to close the wound, resulting in tissue that may differ in texture, color, and appearance from the surrounding skin.

While scars are medically harmless in most cases, they can affect confidence and quality of life, depending on their visibility, size, and location.

Types of Scars

Understanding the type of scar is essential for selecting an appropriate scar treatment plan. Common types include:

Atrophic Scars

Atrophic Scars

Depressed scars such as acne scars, including ice-pick, boxcar, and rolling scars.

Hypertrophic Scars

Hypertrophic Scars

Raised scars that remain within the boundaries of the original wound.

Keloid Scars

Keloid Scars

Thick, raised scars that extend beyond the original injury.

Pigmented Scars

Pigmented Scars

Scars associated with hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.

Contracture Scars

Contracture Scars

Tight scars often resulting from burns that may restrict movement.

Surgical and Traumatic Scars

Surgical and Traumatic Scars

Scars formed after procedures or physical injuries.

Chickenpox Scars

Chickenpox Scars

Pitted scars caused by varicella infection.

What Are the BSL Scar Treatment Options
What Are the BSL Scar Treatment Options
What Are the BSL Scar Treatment Options

What Are the BSL Scar Treatment Options?

Scars—whether caused by acne, surgery, injury, burns, or chickenpox—can affect more than appearance. At the BSL Clinic, we recognize that no two scars are alike. Each scar varies in its characteristics and requires a carefully tailored approach rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

Our doctors conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand every dimension of your scar, including:

Based on this evaluation, a personalized treatment plan is designed using a strategic, multimodal approach. Known as Multimodal Customized Solutions, this method combines complementary techniques in a carefully sequenced protocol to address the unique nature of each scar.

This approach reflects the training and clinical experience of Wutinan Sithipolvanichgul, MD, and Wipanee Akarapusit, MD, who have received training at internationally recognized institutions, including under Richard Rox Anderson, MD at Harvard.

What Makes It Different from Other Scar Treatment Options?

While some clinics rely on one or two devices, scar management often requires a more comprehensive approach. In 2020, Kauvar, Kubicki, Suggs, and Friedman introduced the Scar Algorithm in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine—a framework guiding physicians to evaluate scar type, stage, skin type (Fitzpatrick I–VI), and the most appropriate treatment modality, often involving combination therapy.¹

BSL Clinic applies this Scar Algorithm to every patient. Our treatment approach works across 3 interconnected dimensions:

3 Interconnected Dimensions of Scar Treatment
Dimension Treatment Goal Technologies Used
Structure
Improve depth and elevation; support collagen remodeling
PicoWay Resolve, Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse, Fraxel Dual, and Microneedle RF Programs
Color
Reduce redness, improve uneven pigmentation, support pigment balance
Vascular Laser 550 nm, Laser Genesis 1064 nm, and PicoWay Zoom Programs
Regeneration
Support tissue renewal, modulate inflammation, improve pigmentation balance
Polynucleotide, PLLA, Injectable Neuromodulators, Intralesional Steroid Injections, 5-FU

At the BSL Clinic, there is no fixed formula. Each patient receives a uniquely designed “treatment recipe.” A shallow pitted scar on the cheek and a raised red scar with vascular involvement on the nose require entirely different tools and techniques — and treatment strategies are selected accordingly.

Key Benefits and Realistic Expectations

0 %
of treated areas improved PicoWay Resolve Program
0 %
non-relapse rate at 3 years RF Microneedling
0 %
wrinkle improvement Multi-modal CO2
0 D
average downtime PicoWay Resolve Program

Real-world scar treatment results depend on many factors — scar type, scar age, skin type, and the number of sessions. At BSL Clinic, we believe in setting honest expectations from the very first consultation.

What you can realistically expect: visibly smoother skin, refined pores, faded redness and dark marks, shallower pitted scars, flatter raised scars, more even skin tone, and — perhaps most importantly — restored confidence. Initial results are often visible within the first month, with continued improvement over 3–6 months as new collagen matures.

An honest note: 

Scar treatment does not erase scars completely — no technology can do that. What it achieves is significant improvement, often to the point where scars are barely noticeable in normal lighting. Your doctor will assess your specific scars and give you a clear, honest picture of what’s achievable before you begin.

How Do Scar Treatments Work?

Every treatment journey begins with a comprehensive assessment by a physician who classifies your scars and designs a personalized plan. Based on your specific scar characteristics, your doctor will select from the following technologies:

PicoWay Resolve 1064 nm & Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse Programs

Shallow Scars

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing can address several skin concerns related to aging, texture, and scarring.

Common treatment goals include softening wrinkles, refining uneven skin texture, improving acne scars, and rejuvenating delicate areas such as the skin around the eyes.

PicoWay Resolve 1064 nm Program utilizes ultra-short picosecond pulses to create a photoacoustic effect within the skin. This mechanism supports collagen remodeling with limited thermal diffusion to surrounding tissue. Fractional delivery creates controlled micro-injuries beneath the skin surface, supporting gradual textural improvement with relatively short downtime.

Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse (Lumenis) Program provides targeted resurfacing to improve scar depth and contour. Its fractional technology delivers precise micro-columns of energy to promote controlled skin renewal while allowing surrounding tissue to support recovery.

Fraxel Dual Laser Program

Medium-Depth Scars

Fraxel Dual Laser Program (1550 nm / 1927 nm)

Fraxel Dual Laser Program is a dual-wavelength platform combining 1550 nm and 1927 nm technologies in a single device. The 1550 nm wavelength penetrates into the dermis to support collagen remodeling for moderate pitted scars, while the 1927 nm (Thulium) wavelength works at the epidermal level to address pigmentation and refine surface texture.

At BSL Clinic, our doctors find that the Fraxel Dual Program is especially well-suited for Asian skin (Fitzpatrick III–V), where managing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk is critical. Clinical experience shows that 3–4 sessions typically produce excellent results for moderate acne scarring.

Microneedle RF

Deep Scars

Microneedle RF: Fractora / Morpheus8 program

For scars that extend beyond the reach of conventional lasers, Fractional Radiofrequency Microneedling may be incorporated into treatment plans. These devices deliver radiofrequency energy through insulated microneedles that penetrate up to 7–8 mm into the dermis and subcutaneous layer, supporting tissue remodeling and collagen stimulation.

Fractora Program’s 24-pin bipolar RF tip creates precise zones of ablation and coagulation at controlled depths. Morpheus8 Program offers adjustable depth from 1–8 mm, enabling treatment from superficial texture to deep fibrotic scars. A landmark study in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal (2025) reported a 3-year relapse rate of 24% with Fractional RF Microneedling—lower than isotretinoin therapy (67%) or ablative laser alone (75%).

Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse Program

Defined-Edge Scars / Chickenpox Scars

Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse Program

Scars with sharp, well-defined edges — such as boxcar acne scars and chickenpox scars — respond particularly well to the Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse Program. The laser’s SuperPulse technology delivers high energy in extremely short bursts, precisely ablating scar edges while minimizing collateral thermal damage. The scanner allows density and depth to be finely controlled, enabling the physician to “blend” sharp scar borders into the surrounding skin and stimulate new tissue growth from the base of the scar upward.

Research by Clementoni et al. (2012) published in the Journal of Cosmetic Laser Therapy demonstrated an average 42% wrinkle improvement and 40.1% melanin variation improvement with multi-modal fractional CO₂, with low downtime and minimal adverse effects.

Vascular Laser + Laser Genesis

Redness / Abnormal Blood Vessels

Vascular Laser + Laser Genesis

Erythematous scars — those that remain persistently red or pink — result from excessive blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) during the wound healing process. At BSL Clinic, treatment is matched to vascular depth:

  • Superficial vessels: Vascular Laser at 550 nm (IPL) selectively targets oxyhemoglobin in superficial capillaries, reducing redness from the very first session. It’s ideal for early-stage red scars and post-inflammatory erythema.
  • Deep vessels: Nd:YAG 1064 nm or Laser Genesis penetrates deeper into the dermis to reach larger, deeper blood vessels within scar tissue. For prominent vascular spots, the doctor may combine broad-field treatment with targeted spot treatment on individual visible vessels.
Neuromodulator Injections

Regenerative Medicine

Neuromodulator Injections, Polynucleotide, PLLA + Laser-Assisted Drug Delivery

The final dimension that completes BSL Clinic’s approach is regenerative injectable therapy, used alongside laser treatment for enhanced outcomes:

  • Neuromodulator Injections — May be used to reduce redness and tension forces around scars, particularly when vascular involvement is present.
  • Triamcinolone / 5-FU — Commonly used for hypertrophic scars and keloids to help reduce elevation and inflammatory activity.
  • Polynucleotide (PN/PDRN) — Supports tissue repair and regeneration, and may be considered in cases of hypopigmented (lighter) scars.
  • PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) — A collagen biostimulator that helps improve atrophic scars by gradually enhancing volume and structure.

Treatment Strategies by Scar Type

Scar Type Characteristics Primary Technologies
Shallow pitted scars
(Ice-pick, Rolling)
Shallow depressions, uneven texture
PicoWay Resolve and Fractional CO₂ Programs
Medium pitted scars
(Boxcar, Rolling)
Moderate depth, defined edges
Fraxel Dual and Fractional CO₂ Programs
Deep pitted scars
(Deep boxcar, Ice-pick)
Deep depressions, tethered fibrous bands
Microneedle RF (Fractora / Morpheus8 Programs) + Subcision
Raised scars / Keloids
(Hypertrophic / Keloid)
Elevated, red, may itch or feel tender
Vascular Laser + Intralesional Steroid / 5-FU Injections
Chickenpox scars
Small round pits, scattered, sharp edges
Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse Program
Red scars
(Erythematous)
Persistent redness or pink tone
550 nm IPL, 1064 nm Nd:YAG, and Laser Genesis
Dark scars
(Hyperpigmented)
Darker than surrounding skin
PicoWay Zoom and Fraxel Dual Laser Programs
White scars
(Hypopigmented)
Lighter than surrounding skin
Polynucleotide, PLLA, and Fractional Laser
Surgical / Traumatic scars
Linear, may be raised or contracted
PDL and Fractional CO₂ Programs (early intervention may be considered)

Clinical Evidence: What Research Shows

BSL Clinic is committed to evidence-based medicine. Every technology we select and every protocol we design is grounded in peer-reviewed clinical research. Here are the key studies that underpin our scar treatment program:

Clinical Evidence What Research Shows

Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 2020

Kauvar, Kubicki, Suggs & Friedman developed a systematic algorithm requiring physicians to assess scar type, scar stage, skin type, and optimal modality before selecting treatment.1 The paper recommends early laser intervention within 4–6 weeks post-injury to prevent pathological scarring — the foundational framework BSL Clinic uses for every patient.

Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 2024

Qiang et al. studied the timing of combined PDL 595 nm and CO₂ ablative fractional laser on facial surgical scars using 3D imaging. The group treated at 2 weeks post-surgery showed significantly better scar scores than the 4-week group in color, texture, and overall appearance — confirming that earlier truly is better.²

PMC / Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 2017

A blinded clinical study showed that picosecond lasers through a holographic beam-splitter improved acne scars in 81% of subjects, with 85% reporting high satisfaction.⁵,⁹ The treatment was safe across Fitzpatrick Skin Types II–V with no pigmentary alterations — making it well-suited for Asian skin.

Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 2025

A retrospective review of 356 patients comparing three treatment modalities found that Fractional RF Microneedling achieved a relapse rate of just 24% at three years, dramatically lower than isotretinoin (67%) or ablative laser alone (75%). The deep RF energy reaches the reticular dermis, triggering sustained neocollagenesis.

Journal of Cosmetic Laser Therapy, 2012

Clementoni et al. studied 24 patients receiving a single multi-modal fractional CO₂ treatment. 3D imaging confirmed statistically significant improvement in all measured parameters, with low adverse effects and short downtime — achieved through the unique ability to deliver deep and superficial fractional treatment from a single handpiece.

Key takeaway:

“Scars are preventable.” If you’ve recently had surgery or an injury, starting laser treatment within 2–4 weeks can significantly reduce the risk of abnormal scarring. Don’t wait for a scar to mature — early intervention during the Proliferation Phase (days 4–21) is the golden window for prevention.

Real Case Insights: What Improvements Are Possible?

BSL Clinic serves patients from Thailand and over 40 countries worldwide, with a patient satisfaction rate of 99.2% (surveyed since 2017 to present). Here are representative case examples:

acne scar
Moderate-to-Deep Acne Scarring

A 28-year-old female patient with rolling and boxcar acne scars across both cheeks received alternating sessions of Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse and PicoWay Resolve Program — 5 sessions total. Within 3 months of completing treatment, skin texture had improved visibly, with pitted scars becoming barely noticeable under normal lighting.

Before After แผลเป็น
Traumatic Forehead Scar from an Accident

A 35-year-old male patient with a long linear scar on the forehead from a traffic accident. Treated with 4 sessions of Fraxel Dual Laser Program. After 3 months, the scar had faded to the point of blending with surrounding skin, with even skin tone restored.

Before After แผลเป็น
Post-Surgical Scar Near the Mouth (Early Intervention)

A female patient with a fresh surgical scar near the corner of her mouth. Treatment with Fraxel Dual Laser Program was initiated within 3 weeks of surgery — 4 sessions total. The scar healed flat, with no residual elevation or redness. This case illustrates the power of early intervention in preventing scar formation entirely.

Is Scar Treatment Right for You?

Ideal Candidates

This program may be suitable for individuals with:

Your Personalized Consultation and Care

Your Personalized Consultation and Care

At BSL Clinic, every patient receives a personalized consultation before treatment begins. During this one-on-one assessment, our physicians evaluate your scar concerns, skin type, medical history, and treatment goals to design a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

For your safety and comfort, additional precautions may be considered for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have used isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6–12 months, have a history of severe keloid formation, or have active or unstable skin conditions.

At BSL Clinic, every patient receives a personalized consultation before treatment begins. During this one-on-one assessment, our physicians evaluate your scar concerns, skin type, medical history, and treatment goals to design a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

For your safety and comfort, additional precautions may be considered for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have used isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6–12 months, have a history of severe keloid formation, or have active or unstable skin conditions.

Downtime, Recovery, and What to Expect

Technology Typical Downtime Pain Level Sessions Needed

PicoWay Resolve Program

1–2 days mild redness
Minimal; no anesthesia needed
3–6 sessions

Fraxel Dual Program

3–5 days redness/swelling
Topical anesthesia applied
3–4 sessions

Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse Program

5–7 days redness
Topical anesthesia applied
3–4 sessions

Fractora / Morpheus8 Programs
(Microneedle RF)

2–3 days mild swelling
Topical anesthesia applied
3–5 sessions

Vascular Laser

1–2 days mild redness
Minimal
3–5 sessions

All laser and medical technologies at BSL Clinic are Thai FDA approved. Treatments are performed by board-certified physicians, with personalized post-treatment skin care and sun protection guidance provided at every visit to optimize healing and results.

Downtime, Recovery, and What to Expect

Technology Typical Downtime Pain Level Sessions Needed
PicoWay Resolve Program
1–2 days mild redness
Minimal; no anesthesia needed
3–6 sessions
Fraxel Dual Program
3–5 days redness/swelling
Topical anesthesia applied
3–4 sessions
Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse Program
5–7 days redness
Topical anesthesia applied
3–4 sessions
Fractora / Morpheus8 Programs (Microneedle RF)
2–3 days mild swelling
Topical anesthesia applied
3–5 sessions
Vascular Laser
1–2 days mild redness
Minimal
3–5 sessions

All laser and medical technologies at BSL Clinic are Thai FDA approved. Treatments are performed by board-certified physicians, with personalized post-treatment skin care and sun protection guidance provided at every visit to optimize healing and results.

Fractional CO2 Laser FAQs

FAQs

About BSL Scar Treatments

1. Can acne scars really be treated effectively?

Yes. Laser technologies provide measurable improvement in scar removal. Clinical data shows PicoWay Resolve Program improves 94% of treated acne scar areas after 3–6 sessions, while Fractional RF Microneedling demonstrates lasting results with a 3-year relapse rate of 24%.⁵⁻⁶ A personalized multimodal scar treatment approach can significantly improve appearance.

2. How many sessions will I need?

Most patients require 3–6 scar treatment sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, with each visit lasting 30–60 minutes. Initial improvement may be seen after the first session, with peak results appearing 2–3 months after completing the course as collagen matures. Your doctor will recommend the optimal plan for scar removal.

3. Is it painful? How much downtime should I expect?

Pain levels and downtime vary by technology used for laser scar removal. PicoWay Resolve Program has 1–2 days of mild redness, Fraxel Dual Program 3–5 days, Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse Program 5–7 days, and Microneedle RF (Fractora/Morpheus8 Programs) 2–3 days of mild swelling. Topical anesthesia is applied when appropriate.

4. Can old scars (several years old) still be improved?

Yes. Older scars may respond more slowly but can still improve with scar treatment such as Fractional CO₂ AcuPulse Program, RF Microneedling Programs, and PLLA biostimulator injections. These procedures stimulate collagen remodeling for scar removal, and with appropriate protocols and sufficient sessions, even decades-old scars may show meaningful improvement.⁶⁻⁷

5. When to start scar treatment after surgery?

Starting early is recommended. Studies (2024–2025) show vascular laser (PDL) within 2–3 weeks after suture removal helps prevent hypertrophic scarring during the Proliferation Phase (days 4–21).²⁻³

If this window has passed, scar treatment and laser scar removal remain effective but may require additional sessions; patients planning surgery may schedule treatment in advance.

6. Can white (hypopigmented) scars be treated?

Hypopigmented scars are among the most challenging in dermatology. At the BSL Clinic, Polynucleotide (PN/PDRN) and PLLA injections combined with fractional laser stimulate melanocyte activity and collagen production to gradually restore skin color. Multiple sessions are required, but meaningful improvement is achievable.

7. What makes BSL Clinic different from other scar treatment clinics?

BSL Clinic is characterized by the following key aspects:

  • Breadth of Technology: More than six dedicated scar treatment and laser scar removal platforms under one roof, enabling a multimodal approach tailored to individual scar types.
  • Physician Training: Our doctors have received training from institutions such as Harvard, Boston University, and leading laser centers in the United States, Europe, and Japan.
  • Evidence-Based Protocols: Treatment plans follow the Scar Algorithm framework (Kauvar et al., 2020) to guide appropriate scar removal technology selection, depth, and sequencing.
  • Patient-Reported Outcomes: A patient satisfaction rate of 99.2% and ratings of 5/5 on Facebook and Wongnai, and 4.8/5 on Google, reflect patient experiences.

8. Is BSL Clinic suitable for international patients?

Yes. BSL Clinic has served patients from over 40 countries. Our English-speaking medical team and conveniently located clinics in Silom and Sukhumvit ensure easy access. Many international patients combine treatment with a stay in Bangkok, and intensive schedules can be arranged for those requiring multiple sessions. Contact us at bslclinic.com for treatment planning and scheduling.

9. Are scars truly preventable?

In many cases, yes. A systematic review (Karmisholt et al., 2018) confirmed that early laser intervention reduces scar formation4, and a randomized controlled trial (Waibel et al., 2020) showed better outcomes with a single laser treatment at 3 months post-injury compared with no treatment at 12 months. Early intervention is recommended when appropriate.⁸

10. What is the treatment journey like at BSL Clinic?

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation, including scar assessment, clinical photography, and discussion of goals. A personalized treatment plan outlines recommended technologies, sessions, and timeline. Each visit includes skin preparation, topical anesthesia if needed, and the procedure, followed by post-care instructions and follow-up to monitor progress and adjust the plan.

Wipanee Akarapusit, MD Medical License No. 39678

Wipanee Akarapusit, MD Medical License No. 39678

The Medical Council of Thailand BSL Clinic, Bangkok

  1. Kauvar ANB, Kubicki SL, Suggs AK, Friedman PM. Laser therapy of traumatic and surgical scars and an algorithm for their treatment. Lasers Surg Med. 2020;52(2):125-136. doi:10.1002/lsm.23171
  2. Qiang S, Fan X, Yin Y, et al. Timing of Laser Intervention on Facial Scars: A 3D Imaging and Scar Scale Analysis. Lasers Surg Med. 2024;56(9):770-775. doi:10.1002/lsm.23846 Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39308039/
  3. Kim YH, Kim HS, Kim HK, et al. Very Early Pulsed Dye Laser Intervention for Optimal Cosmetic Outcome in Post-Thyroidectomy Scars. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2024;17:877-884. doi:10.2147/CCID.S444885 Available from: https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(24)02464-2/fulltext
  4. Karmisholt KE, Haerskjold A, Karlsmark T, Waibel J, Paasch U, Haedersdal M. Early laser intervention to reduce scar formation — a systematic review. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2018;32(7):1099-1110. doi:10.1111/jdv.14856
  5. Bernstein EF, Schomacker KT, Basilavecchio LD, Plugis JM, Bhawalkar JD. Treatment of acne scarring with a novel fractionated, dual-wavelength, picosecond-domain laser. Lasers Surg Med. 2017;49(9):796-802. doi:10.1002/lsm.22687
  6. Mulholland RS, Ahn DH, Kreindel M, Paul M. The Role of Fractional Radiofrequency in Long-term Acne Remission and Reduction of Acne Scar Load. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2025;45(Suppl 1):S23-S32. doi:10.1093/asj/sjae224
  7. Clementoni MT, Lavagno R, Munavalli G. A new multi-modal fractional ablative CO₂ laser for wrinkle reduction and skin resurfacing. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2012;14(6):244-52. doi:10.3109/14764172.2012.738912
  8. Waibel JS, Gianatasio C, Rudnick A. Randomized, Controlled Early Intervention of Dynamic Mode Fractional Ablative CO₂ Laser on Acute Burn Injuries for Prevention of Pathological Scarring. Lasers Surg Med. 2020;52(2):117-124. doi:10.1002/lsm.23170
  9. PicoWay CE mark data. Candela Corporation. Data on File.