Acne & Acne Scarring Treatments

At StoneWater Medical Aesthetics of Minneapolis/St. Paul, we specialize in the treatment of active acne and acne scarring. We use a combined approach to obtain the best results. A customized combination of high grade medical products, acne laser threatments, laser resurfacing, acne photo therapy treatments pruduces outstanding results on active acne and acne scars.


Our Profile™ ThermaScan's™ gentle, non-invasive infrared energy allows us to clear up any current acne outbreaks and helps us soften and minimize any residual scars from previous outbreaks, no matter how long you have had them. We also recommend microdermabrasion to gently but thoroughly exfoliate and smooth your skin.

Active Acne

Our ThermaScan acne therapy uses an infrared laser wavelength specifically chosen to treat the acne where it starts—those sensitive sebaceous glands. The laser gently heats up the upper layers of your skin, and the heat absorbed by the sebaceous glands reduces oil production and kills acne-causing bacteria thereby reducing the number of active and potential acne breakouts. ThermaScan acne therapy is safe and effective on all skin types and tones.

Acne Scarring
ThermaScan is also extremely effective in treating acne scars. The heat energy from ThermaScan treatments penetrate the outer layer of your skin and stimulate the skin cells underneath, promoting collagen production to fill in the depressed areas and revitalize your skin's appearance. Microdermabrasion and Laser Resurfacing are also wonderful treatments to smooth and refresh your skin.

Acne Therapy Procedure
During your ThermaScan acne treatments, you will experience minimal or no discomfort. You may feel a warming of the skin or a sensation that feels like a tiny rubber band snap. Hhowever, this varies from patient to patient and depends on the depth of the treatment. We can use a topical anesthetic cream on extra-sensitive areas, if you wish. During the treatment, your eyes will be protected from the powerful healing laser light with safety shields. Your procedure will last generally between 15 and 30 minutes depending on the size of the area to be treated and the type and depth of the procedure performed.

No Hiding Necessary
One of the best features of ThermaScan acne and acne scar therapy is that there is virtually no discomfort or downtime. After a session, the treated area may be red for up to an hour, but you’ll be able to get back to your daily routine the moment you leave StoneWater.

You’ll See The Results
Clinical studies suggest at least one to two treatments are needed to see results, but many patients see results after the first acne therapy session. Typically you will be advised to get treatments spaced 2 weeks apart with a medical grade home care program to compliment your treatment plan, until your acne clears. Dr. Elser will recommend the best acne therapy plan for you during your complimentary consultation.

Ongoing Skin Care
After your session, Dr. Elser will give you specific written instructions to care for your treated skin and get the most healing effects from your acne therapy. He may also recommend medical grade home care products and facials with instructions on how to use them. This will minimize your risk of inflammation or redness and shorten your healing time. You will be sensitive to ultra-violet light and you must avoid direct sun exposure until fully healed. You should completely cover your treated skin or use a high SPF sunscreen when you go outside.


What are you waiting for? Give us a call 651-429-2656and get smooth skin! or email us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.