RDG Clinic · scar assessment in central Riga
Acne-scar and scar treatment in Riga
Scars differ in type, depth, age, and activity, so no single method suits everyone. A dermatologist examines the skin and scar structure, then creates an evidence-informed treatment plan with realistic expectations.
- Dermatologist-led planning
- Different treatment options
- In-person assessment in central Riga
One method is not the answer for every scar
CO₂ laser is one option — not a universal solution
In the video, Dr Armands Baltušs explains the use of fractional CO₂ laser for scar revision and the recovery period. It is selected only after considering scar type, skin phototype, and risk. Active acne is usually stabilised first, while raised scars or keloids may require a different approach. The aim is meaningful improvement, not a promise to erase a scar completely.
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Video transcript
Hi everyone! I’m Armands Baltušs, dermatologist. Today we’re going to talk about and work on scars.
We have a patient who came in for fractional CO₂ laser scar treatment. The patient developed these scars over her lifetime. There are scars on the arm, including one after surgery.
So, what is a fractional CO₂ laser? It can be one of the more aggressive ways to remove scars, but also one of the most effective. It works on both the deep layers of the skin and the superficial layer.
Let’s put it this way: it is a bit painful, so we do apply anaesthesia beforehand so the patient won’t feel a thing, the procedure is comfortable, and the impression of lasers is a pleasant one.
What can the patient expect after the procedure? There’s a little bit of stinging and redness for the first few days. The scar-healing stages can last up to two or three weeks.
Is it necessary to repeat this fractional CO₂ laser treatment? Yes. For patients with deeper, older scars, we usually recommend two to three sessions to get the best possible results.
This procedure is available at Riga Dermatology Group Clinic.
RDG dermatologists
Doctors for scar assessment and treatment planning
The first step is an in-person consultation. The doctor identifies the scar type, checks for active inflammation, and recommends an appropriate treatment sequence.
Your treatment pathway
From scar assessment to an individual plan
History and active-inflammation assessment
The doctor asks how and when the scar formed, whether it is changing, and what has already been tried. For acne scars, the doctor checks whether new inflammatory lesions are still appearing.
Scar type, depth, and skin phototype
The scar structure, colour, mobility, and surrounding skin are examined in person. This helps distinguish a pigment change from a true structural scar.
Method, sequence, and recovery plan
The doctor explains suitable options, limitations, likely treatment course, and recovery. When a combination is appropriate, it is divided into clear stages.
Before your appointment
Common questions about scar treatment
Can a scar be removed completely?
Treatment usually aims to make a scar less noticeable and improve its texture, colour, or flexibility. Complete disappearance cannot be guaranteed. The possible improvement depends on scar type, depth, age, location, and the skin’s individual response.
Should active acne be treated before acne scars?
Active acne is usually brought under control first to reduce the formation of new scars. In some cases, stages may overlap, but the dermatologist determines the sequence after examining the skin.
Is CO₂ laser suitable for every acne scar?
No. Fractional CO₂ laser can be appropriate for certain atrophic scars and texture concerns, but not for every scar type or skin phototype. Depressed, raised, and active scars require different strategies.
What is the difference between an acne mark and a scar?
A mark is mainly a colour change left after inflammation, while a scar changes the skin structure by creating a depression or raised area. Both may be present together. An in-person examination distinguishes them before treatment is selected.
How are raised scars and keloids treated?
Their activity, location, and risk of growth are assessed first. Depending on the case, the doctor may consider intralesional treatment or another combined approach; aggressive resurfacing is not automatically the first choice.
How many treatments will I need?
This cannot be determined reliably without an examination. The number depends on scar type and depth, the selected method, and the skin’s response. The doctor explains the likely course and when results can be assessed fairly.
How long is the recovery?
Recovery depends on the method and treatment intensity. Fractional CO₂ laser may cause marked redness, swelling, and peeling, while other approaches may have less downtime. The precise aftercare plan is explained before treatment.
Can treatment be performed on the consultation day?
Not always. Scar type, suitability, contraindications, and recovery need to be considered first. A procedure is often scheduled separately so it can be prepared for properly.
A well-founded first step
Begin with an assessment of the scar and your skin
Request an in-person dermatologist consultation. Tell us where the scar is, how it formed, and what you have already tried; the doctor will create an individual, staged plan.
RDG Clinic · Rīga
Plan your visit
Kr. Valdemāra iela 33a-3a
Rīga, LV-1010
Mon–Fri: 10:00–19:00Sat: 10:00–15:00Sun: closed