Scars, if not properly managed and left untreated when the injury first occurs, often remain white or become firm over time. Those looking into scar treatment often converge on one question: "Can scars be naturally improved without incision?" This article explains the principles by which the Pinhole Technique, using the Ultrapulse Encore laser, treats scars.
Traces Left by Neglected Scars in Daily Life
Scars are not merely a visible problem. They can diminish external confidence, and in cases of keloids, they can cause discomfort in daily life due to persistent pain and itching. Scars, especially those in frequently moving areas, often do not fade easily over time, leading to prolonged concerns about their management.
Since the approach varies depending on the type of scar, the starting point is to first understand your scar type. Checking Characteristics and Management of Keloid Scars or Progression of Cosmetic Surgery Scars can help guide your direction.
What is the Ultrapulse Encore Laser?
Ultrapulse Encore is a type of carbon dioxide laser (CO2 laser) used for treating moles, seborrheic keratoses, and various scars. It is a device that delivers microscopic, high-power laser beams deep into the skin to induce skin regeneration.
The beams are precisely targeted to the treatment area, minimizing damage to surrounding skin. However, as it is a powerful laser, output control and the operator's skill can affect the results, and there may be individual differences in effectiveness and recovery patterns.
How Does the Pinhole Technique Treat Scars?
The Pinhole Technique is a scar removal treatment first presented to the dermatological community in 2006 by a research team including Dr. Jin-Moon Kang and Dr. Sang-Joo Lee, chief directors of Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon. Since its 발표, it has been recognized for its scar improvement effects and is utilized in various places.
The principle is as follows: The Ultrapulse Encore laser, as described earlier, creates deep and dense microscopic holes in the scar area. This process helps to loosen and rearrange tangled collagen tissues, thereby inducing skin regeneration.
This treatment aims to improve skin color, height, and texture to resemble normal skin, without separate incision or alteration.
Since there is no separate incision process, it can reduce the burden of leaving another scar on top of an existing one, and the results can be seen in before-and-after photos. There are also various forms of the Pinhole Technique, such as Pinhole Alpha Treatment or Mild Pinhole, which can be chosen according to the scar condition.
The appropriate approach for each scar type is briefly summarized in the table below:
| Scar Condition | Considered Approach |
|---|---|
| Depressed, sunken scars | Collagen rearrangement to correct surface height |
| Firm, raised scars | Reviewing combined approaches for tissue volume reduction |
| Old scars with altered color | Combined management of pigment changes and regeneration induction |
If you find it difficult to determine which category your scar falls into, we recommend checking your condition first by inquiring about scar treatment via chat consultation.
A Treatment Method Born from Long-Standing Research
The background to these results includes over 20 years of scar treatment experience and know-how, along with continuous research. In the clinic, even similar scars can react differently depending on their depth, location, and skin type, so accumulated experience forms the basis of treatment design. Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon will continue to evolve.
For cases requiring invasive restoration beyond scars, other methods such as Surgical Scar Revision may also be considered.
Post-Procedure Care
Since this treatment uses a powerful laser, it is important to receive it from an experienced dermatologist to minimize side effects. As the procedure creates microscopic wounds on the skin, post-procedure care is as crucial as the results. Keeping the following points in mind can aid recovery:
- For about two days after the procedure, apply a hydrocolloid dressing to protect the area, as there may be oozing.
- The skin may temporarily become dry, so use a regenerating cream.
- The keratin that forms after the procedure will shed in about a week, during which the skin will refine.
- Always apply sunscreen to reduce side effects like pigmentation.
- Do not arbitrarily peel off keratin or irritate the skin; allow it to heal naturally.
These recovery processes and patterns can vary individually, so it is best to receive guidance tailored to your skin condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scar Management
Many people wonder if scars from burns or surgery can be treated in the same way. The approach varies depending on the cause and depth of the scar, so for Burn Scars, a separate evaluation is necessary. It is also good to know in advance that older, neglected scars often require multiple sessions for gradual refinement rather than disappearing in one go.
If you have an ongoing scar and are wondering which method is right for you, please use Consult About Your Scar Condition via Chat Now.
In Summary
The Pinhole Technique is a scar treatment method that rearranges collagen and induces skin regeneration through microscopic holes without incision. More stable recovery can be expected when the precise delivery of the Ultrapulse Encore laser, the operator's experience, and post-procedure care work together. If you've been concerned about scars for a long time, the first step is to carefully identify your scar type.
Dr. Sang-Joo Lee, Chief Director (MD, PhD, Yonsei University College of Medicine and Graduate School; Completed Dermatology Residency at Severance Hospital; President of the Korean Dermatological Association) Dr. Sang-Joo Lee's Profile First Published 2023-12-18 / Last Reviewed 2026-06-16
This content is for general information purposes only. Treatment effects and recovery processes may vary depending on individual skin conditions, and accurate diagnosis and treatment decisions should be made through consultation with medical staff.