08
Feb
Understanding the Different Treatments for Scar Reduction
After your skin heals from damage and trauma, you may be left with scars. Facial scarring can weaken your self-confidence and remind you of difficult or even traumatic moments in your life.
If you’ve had skin trauma due to bad cystic or nodular acne, you can also be left with lasting scars that keep your skin from looking its best, even after you’ve resolved your acne issues.
That’s why the skin care specialists at Apex Dermatology of Westlake Village, California, offer multiple types of different treatments to help with scar minimization and removal. With the care of Dr. Karin Harp, Dr. Aria Vazirnia, Kristin Rupert PA-C, Mary Hanna BC-NP, Riley McCarthy RN and our team, you can regain clear, even skin that’s free of visible scars. We can address scars on your face or your body.
Stimulating collagen production
When your body heals after a trauma to your skin, you generate the protein collagen as part of rebuilding your skin. Collagen creates a layer or lattice under the surface of your skin that keeps it looking smooth.
Visible scarring can be the result of either too much collagen creation, leading to raised scars, or insufficient collagen, producing pits and depressions in the surface of your skin. Either way, cosmetic procedures can help reduce the appearance of scars, or even almost erase them.
Scar removal with laser treatment
At Apex Dermatology, we use state-of-the-art laser technology to stimulate new collagen growth and effectively resurface your skin. Laser treatment heats the deep layers of your skin, triggering new collagen production over the days and weeks after your treatment session.
We offer multiple types of laser treatment options for scarring, including:
Clear + Brilliant®
This mild laser treatment for acne scarring requires minimal post-session downtime and gradual scar improvement..
Laser Genesis
This treatment provides a gentle and effective method to stimulate new collagen production and address past and current acne scarring issues. This is a great treatment to reduce acne scarring while helping calm active acne. Combine with acne treatments to speed improvement.
Excel-V®
This laser technique works to reduce red, purple, blue, or brown discoloration relating to scars. Layering with Laser Genesis or Fraxel might be advised for customized scar reduction.
Fraxel®
With this intensive laser resurfacing treatment, you can address moderate to severe facial and body scarring. Come in and have a scar treatment consultation so we can show you the significant improvements one can see with Fraxel scar treatment.
PiQO4
This special pigment reduction laser can reduce or even out brown pigmentation.
Talk to our team about the best scar treatment option for you.
Scar removal with microneedling
We also use microneedling treatment to stimulate new collagen growth and to reduce the appearance of visible scars with the Rejuvapen™ system. Microneedling can also be used in combination with laser skin treatment for more effective results. PRP (platelet rich plasma) can also be combined with treatments to boost collagen building capacity of the skin.
Radiofrequency microneedling with the Morpheus8 device can improve scars, tighten lax skin around scars, and reduce stretchmarks.
Microneedling is another way to kickstart and increase collagen production in your skin, while also breaking down existing scar tissue for a smoother surface. You start to see results after a few weeks. You may need repeat treatments spaced weeks or months apart to completely address extensive or severe scars.
To learn more about your options for scar reduction and erasure with Dr. Harp, Dr. Aria, Kristin Rupert PA-C, Mary Hanna BC-NP, Riley McCarthy RN and our team at Apex Dermatology, call now to book, or request an appointment with our online tool today.
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Zoë Smith, MD
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Alexandra Woodruff
Lani Keene
Sherri Anderson
Riley McCarthy
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, California. With years of experience, she excels in skincare and aesthetics, offering treatments like body contouring and laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Harp is adept at managing complex skin conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis and performs surgical procedures, including Mohs micrographic surgery. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine, she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She is affiliated with esteemed organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology, ensuring her practice remains at the forefront of dermatological care. Dr. Tateoka’s philosophy centers on creating customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, fostering positive self-confidence, and promoting overall well-being. Her commitment to innovation, personalized care, and lifelong learning makes her a trusted provider for those seeking transformative health and aesthetic solutions.
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Dr. Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD, is a highly respected board-certified dermatologist with a focus on medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. A Harvard-trained expert, he excels in minimally invasive procedures such as laser treatments, injectables, and body contouring. Dr. Aria completed his medical degree and dermatology residency at UC San Diego School of Medicine, where he also earned a master’s in clinical research. He is an active member of the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, reflecting his dedication to advancing dermatological care and patient well-being.
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Dr. Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a respected double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon based in Westlake Village, CA. With extensive training from Brown University and Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Tang specializes in the surgical treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Her expertise in Mohs surgery and complex wound reconstruction is backed by her role as former Director of Cutaneous Surgery and Oncology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. A fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, Dr. Tang is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care with excellent outcomes.
Zoë Smith, MD
Dr. Zoë Smith, MD, is a compassionate and skilled dermatologist serving the Westlake Village, CA community at Apex Dermatology. She earned her medical degree from Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit and completed her dermatology residency at UCLA. Dr. Zoë has authored numerous articles on hair loss, skin cancer, and autoimmune conditions, showcasing her expertise. Her research includes work at the NIH and an externship at Harvard Medical School. A leader in her field, she is recognized for her warm approach to patient care and her commitment to volunteering with children who have skin conditions.
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Mary Hanna, NP-BC, is a highly skilled Nurse Practitioner based in Westlake Village, CA, at Apex Dermatology. With a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, affiliated with Harvard, Mary is nationally Board-Certified by the ANCC. Her expertise in dermatology was honed during a prestigious clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center. Mary excels in laser resurfacing, body contouring, and injectables and is dedicated to educating her patients. Her compassionate approach ensures patients feel empowered in their healthcare, enhancing their overall well-being. Mary is a trusted provider, committed to delivering exceptional care.
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C, is a compassionate Certified Physician Assistant at Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, CA. Her journey into dermatology began in high school, inspired by her own experiences with hormonal acne. Since 2016, Alexandra has been dedicated to understanding the connection between metabolic health and skin conditions. She holds a master’s degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. As a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society, Alexandra is committed to providing exceptional patient care.
Lani Keene
Lani Keene, a licensed aesthetician in Westlake Village, CA, has been enhancing skin health since 1998. With over 25 years of experience in both medical and holistic skincare, she offers personalized treatments that deliver outstanding results. At Apex Dermatology, Lani is renowned for her gentle touch and warm demeanor, making her a top choice for those dealing with sunspots, acne, and fine lines. Her dedication to individualized care and extensive expertise make her a trusted professional in aesthetics, helping clients achieve their best looks and feel confident.
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C, is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years of clinical practice. She earned her Master of Science from George Washington University and is board-certified by the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants. Sherri is a respected member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society. Her extensive expertise spans dermatology, plastic surgery, and emergency medicine. Known for her warm manner and aesthetic talents, Sherri is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each patient feels valued and receives natural results from cosmetic procedures.
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN, is a dedicated dermatologist with a unique blend of expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Arizona. Riley is committed to making each patient feel safe and confident in their skin, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Her approach combines her extensive knowledge and compassionate care, making her a trusted professional in the field. Riley is passionate about community health and enhancing patient well-being.