Efficacy of micro-needling combined with subcision and CROSS technique in the treatment of atrophic acne scars

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of micro-needling combined with subcision and CROSS technique in the treatment of atrophic acne scars. Methods From December 2015 to June 2016, twenty patients with ice-pick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars were treated with combined therapy at 1-month interval for three sessions. Efficacy was evaluated at baseline, 1-month and 3-month follow-up after three sessions’ treatment (measure methods including ECCA Grading Scale, efficacy evaluation of dermatologist, and patient satisfaction). The process of recovery and the side effects were recorded. Results The average score of ECCA Grading Scale was significantly lower at the 1-month and 3-month follow-up compared with baseline. The scores at the 1-month and 3-month follow-up were respectively (98.0±17.4) and (82.2±12.6), with statistically significant difference (P<0.05). 94.4% of the participants perceived 50% and above improvement. 94.4% of the participants were satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment efficacy. 100.0% of the participants considered the procedure of the combined therapy caused moderate and above pain. The common side effects were pain, hematoma, redness and swelling, crust, and hyperpigmentation. Conclusion The combined therapy is an effective method for atrophic acne scars and the efficacy can persist till three months after the treatment. Key words: Micro-needling; Subcision; Cross technique; Atrophic acne scars