How much improvement can I realistically expect?

Most patients with moderate atrophic acne scarring see a 30–70% improvement in scar depth and texture over a series of 3–5 sessions. Results vary based on scar type, depth, and skin response. Rolling and boxcar scars typically respond best; deep ice-pick scars may benefit from combination approaches. Your provider will give you a realistic assessment during your consultation.

A topical numbing cream is applied 30–45 minutes before treatment, making the procedure very tolerable. Most patients describe a mild prickling or heat sensation during the session. The Stellar M22's integrated cooling system helps maintain comfort throughout.

How is ResurFX different from microneedling for acne scars?

Both stimulate collagen, but ResurFX delivers thermal energy deeper into the dermis — creating a more intense remodeling response that is particularly effective for filling atrophic scar tissue. Microneedling works primarily through mechanical micro-injury and is excellent for surface texture. For significant scar depth, ResurFX typically delivers more dramatic structural improvement.

Should I treat active acne before addressing scars?

Yes — we recommend getting active breakouts under control before beginning scar resurfacing. Treating active acne first (with IPL, topicals, or other modalities) ensures you're not creating new scars while treating existing ones. Your provider will help you sequence your treatment plan appropriately.

Can ResurFX be combined with other treatments?

Absolutely. ResurFX pairs beautifully with Stellar M22 IPL for comprehensive skin renewal — IPL addresses surface pigmentation and redness while ResurFX rebuilds the structural foundation. It also combines well with medical-grade skincare and chemical peels. Your provider will design the ideal protocol for your specific concerns.

When will I see results?

Texture improvement begins to emerge after the second or third session, with results continuing to build for 3–6 months after completing the series as new collagen matures. Patience is key — the most dramatic improvements often appear months after the final treatment.

MerLeaux Aesthetics & Wellness

Serenity Med Spa · Bay St. Louis, MS

$ResurFX fractional laser acne scar resurfacing treatment at MerLeaux Aesthetics Bay St. Louis$

Patient Education/Laser Skin Resurfacing

Minimal Downtime

Laser Skin Resurfacing

ResurFX™ Acne Scar Resurfacing

Non-ablative fractional laser that fills pitted acne scars and smooths post-inflammatory texture through deep collagen remodeling — with minimal downtime.

Book a Consultation All Treatments

1–3 Days

Mild Redness

30–45 Min

Per Session

3–5 Sessions

Recommended Series

1565 nm

Non-Ablative Laser

What Is ResurFX Acne Scar Resurfacing?

ResurFX™ is the non-ablative fractional laser module on the Lumenis Stellar M22 platform — and one of the most effective tools available for treating atrophic acne scars. Using a 1565 nm wavelength, it creates thousands of microscopic treatment zones deep within the dermis, triggering a powerful collagen remodeling response that visibly fills and smooths pitted scar tissue over a series of treatments.

Unlike ablative lasers that remove the outer skin layer and require extended recovery, ResurFX works beneath the surface — leaving the epidermis intact while stimulating deep structural repair. The result is real, measurable improvement in ice-pick, boxcar, and rolling acne scars with only mild redness for 1–3 days.

Every ResurFX Acne Scar treatment at MerLeaux is paired with the EPICUTIS Recovery Care Set — a clinically proven post-procedure skincare system that reduces downtime, calms redness, and protects the newly treated skin barrier for faster, better results.

How ResurFX Treats Acne Scars

The Science

Fractional Collagen Remodeling

The 1565 nm non-ablative wavelength penetrates into the mid-dermis, creating controlled micro-columns of thermal injury surrounded by healthy, untreated tissue. This fractional approach triggers an intense healing response — flooding the treated zones with new collagen and elastin — while the surrounding healthy tissue accelerates recovery.

Over weeks and months, this new collagen fills the depressed scar tissue from below, gradually raising the scar floor and smoothing the skin surface.

Scar Types Treated

Atrophic Acne Scars

Rolling scars — broad, wave-like depressions with sloping edges; respond very well to ResurFX collagen stimulation
Boxcar scars — wider, defined depressions with sharp vertical edges; improve significantly over a series
Ice-pick scars — deep, narrow channels; improve with ResurFX, though deeper scars may benefit from combination approaches
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — dark marks left by healed breakouts; cleared by the collagen remodeling and surface renewal process

One Pass. Real Results.

ResurFX's unique scanning technology delivers a full treatment in a single pass — unlike older fractional lasers that required multiple overlapping passes. This makes each session faster, more comfortable, and more consistent, while significantly reducing the risk of over-treatment or uneven results.

✦

Fill scars from below

Collagen Remodeling

Fractional micro-columns of thermal energy trigger deep collagen production that fills atrophic scar tissue — gradually raising the scar floor and smoothing the skin surface.

🔬

Smooth post-acne roughness

Texture Refinement

Beyond scars, ResurFX improves overall skin texture — reducing enlarged pores, smoothing rough patches, and restoring a uniform, refined surface.

☀

Fade post-inflammatory marks

PIH Clearance

The collagen remodeling process accelerates the natural turnover of pigmented cells, fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and evening skin tone alongside scar improvement.

The Benefits

Visibly fills and smooths ice-pick, boxcar, and rolling acne scars

Reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Improves overall skin texture, pore size, and surface uniformity

Non-ablative — no open wounds, no extended recovery

One-pass resurfacing — faster and more comfortable than ablative lasers

Paired with EPICUTIS Recovery Care Set for accelerated healing

Results continue to improve for up to 6 months as collagen matures

Safe for face, neck, and décolletage

Customized treatment parameters for your scar type and skin tone

Can be combined with IPL for comprehensive skin renewal

What to Expect — Pre & Post Treatment

Before Your Treatment

Arrive with clean skin — no makeup, moisturizer, or sunscreen on the treatment area.
Avoid sun exposure and tanning (including self-tanner) for 2–4 weeks before treatment.
Discontinue retinol, retinoids, and exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs) for 5–7 days prior.
Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) if medically appropriate — consult your provider.
Inform your provider of any active skin infections, cold sores, or recent isotretinoin (Accutane) use — a waiting period may be required.
A topical numbing cream will be applied before your session — plan to arrive 30–45 minutes early.

After Your Treatment

Expect mild redness, warmth, and a sandpaper-like texture for 1–3 days — this is the normal healing response.
Apply the EPICUTIS Recovery Care Set as directed — it significantly reduces downtime and protects the treated skin barrier.
Apply SPF 30+ daily without exception — sun protection is critical to protecting your results and preventing PIH.
Avoid harsh active ingredients (retinol, AHAs, BHAs) for 5–7 days after treatment.
Avoid direct sun exposure, saunas, and strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours post-treatment.
Makeup can typically be applied 24–48 hours after treatment; consult your provider for specific guidance.

Treatment Protocol

Sessions

Series of 3–5 sessions recommended

Spacing

Spaced 4–6 weeks apart

Acne scar improvement is a gradual process — new collagen takes time to form and mature. Most patients see meaningful texture improvement after 2–3 sessions, with peak results emerging 3–6 months after completing the full series. Deeper or more severe scarring may benefit from 5 sessions or a combination approach with other modalities.

Results Timeline

Days 1–3

Mild redness and a sandpaper-like texture are normal. The EPICUTIS Recovery Care Set keeps skin calm and protected during this phase.

Weeks 2–4

Redness fully resolves. Skin feels smoother and more refined. Early collagen formation begins beneath the surface.

After Sessions 2–3

Visible improvement in scar depth and texture. Post-inflammatory pigmentation fades noticeably. Skin tone becomes more even.

Months 3–6

Peak results as collagen remodeling matures. Scars are visibly shallower, texture is significantly smoother, and overall skin quality is transformed.

Long-Term Maintenance

After completing your initial series, a maintenance session every 12–18 months helps sustain collagen density and address any new textural concerns. Consistent daily SPF use is the single most important factor in maintaining your results and preventing new post-inflammatory pigmentation. Pairing ResurFX with a medical-grade skincare regimen from MerLeaux significantly extends and amplifies your outcome.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Patients with atrophic acne scars (ice-pick, boxcar, or rolling)

Those with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from past breakouts

Anyone wanting real scar improvement without ablative laser recovery

Patients who have completed active acne treatment and are ready to address scarring

Those seeking to improve overall skin texture and pore appearance

This treatment may not be right if you:

Are currently pregnant or breastfeeding
Have active acne breakouts in the treatment area (treat active acne first)
Have an active tan, recent sun exposure, or use self-tanner
Have used isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6–12 months
Have a history of keloid scarring

Frequently Asked Questions