Acne and Post Acne Scar Treatment

• Ice‑pick scars – narrow, deep, sharply defined tracks extending into the dermis
• Boxcar scars – broad, rectangular depressions with sharp vertical edges
• Rolling scars – broad, shallow depressions with sloping, undulating edges
• Hypertrophic scars – raised, firm scar tissue within the original wound boundaries
• Post‑inflammatory erythema (PIE) – red or pink flat marks remaining after lesion healing
• Post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) – brown or dark flat marks, more common in darker skin types

Dr. Olivera Nikolic develops individualised treatment plans based on clinical assessment, acne severity (graded using standardised scales), scar type and depth, skin phototype, and patient goals. Treatment may include one or more of the following evidence‑based modalities.

For Active Acne (Medical Management):

• Topical prescriptions (retinoids, antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide combinations)
• Oral medications where clinically indicated (antibiotics, hormonal therapies)
• Chemical peels for comedonal or mild inflammatory acne
• Lifestyle and skincare counselling

For Post‑Acne Scarring (Procedural Management):

• Microneedling – Collagen induction therapy using fine sterile needles to stimulate neocollagenesis. Particularly effective for rolling and superficial boxcar scars
• Chemical peels – Superficial to medium‑depth peels to improve skin texture, pigmentation, and mild scarring
• Laser therapy – Fractional laser resurfacing (ablative or non‑ablative) for scar remodelling and texture improvement. All laser procedures are performed in a DHA‑compliant laser environment with appropriate safety measures
• Subcision – A minor surgical technique that releases tethered scar fibres, used primarily for rolling scars
• PRP (Platelet‑Rich Plasma) therapy – May be used as an adjunct to microneedling or subcision to enhance healing and collagen production. As per DHA regulations, PRP is permitted for the face and scalp

In some clinical situations, a combination of modalities (e.g., subcision followed by fractional laser or microneedling with PRP) produces superior outcomes compared with any single treatment alone. Dr. Nikolic will explain the rationale for each recommended treatment during your consultation.

You may be a candidate for acne or post‑acne scar treatment if you:

• Have active inflammatory or comedonal acne that has not responded adequately to over‑the‑counter products
• Have visible residual scarring following previous acne episodes
• Have realistic expectations about treatment outcomes and understand that results vary between individuals
• Do not have active skin infections in the treatment area
• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding (for certain procedures)
• Are not taking isotretinoin (or have completed the recommended washout period, where applicable)

A thorough clinical history and skin examination are mandatory before any treatment. Dr. Nikolic will assess your individual suitability during a private, unhurried consultation.

Step 1 – Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis
Dr. Nikolic will review your medical history, examine your skin, and assess acne severity, scar type, depth, and distribution. She will discuss your treatment goals and explain which modalities are clinically appropriate for your specific condition. You will have the opportunity to ask questions before providing written informed consent, as required by DHA regulations.

Step 2 – Treatment Planning
Based on the clinical assessment, Dr. Nikolic will develop a personalised treatment plan. This may include a single procedure or a staged combination of treatments scheduled at appropriate intervals (typically 4–6 weeks apart for collagen‑stimulating procedures).

Step 3 – Procedure (In‑Clinic, Same‑Day)
Depending on the treatment modality chosen, the procedure takes between 20 and 60 minutes. Most treatments are performed under topical anaesthesia for patient comfort. All procedures are carried out in a sterile clinical environment with strict infection control measures.

Step 4 – Aftercare and Recovery
You will receive written aftercare instructions. Expected downtime varies by treatment:

• Microneedling and chemical peels: mild redness and flaking for 2–5 days
• Laser resurfacing: 5–10 days of social downtime, depending on treatment intensity
• Subcision: mild bruising and swelling for 5–10 days

Dr. Nikolic will provide specific guidance based on your treatment plan. Multiple sessions are typically required for optimal scar improvement; most patients undergo 3–6 sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart.

Results are not immediate. Collagen remodelling following microneedling, laser, or subcision takes time:

• Initial improvement may be visible after 4–6 weeks
• Optimal results are typically seen 3–6 months after completing the treatment course

Regulatory disclosure: In compliance with DHA Standards for Medical Advertisement Content and applicable UAE laws, there is no guarantee that the result will be the same for every patient, as individual responses to treatment vary . Dr. Nikolic will provide honest, realistic expectations during your consultation. No exaggerated claims, no guaranteed outcomes – only professional, evidence‑based medical advice.

At ELEMENTAL Day Surgical Center, your safety and clinical outcomes are our highest priorities. As a DHA‑licensed day surgical hospital, we operate at hospital‑grade safety and hygiene standards:

• DHA‑licensed dermatology specialist – Dr. Olivera Nikolic holds an active DHA professional license in dermatology and is authorised to perform medical and procedural dermatology within her scope of practice
• Full regulatory compliance – All procedures strictly adhere to DHA Standards for Non‑Surgical Cosmetic Procedures (Version 2.1), including facility requirements, infection control, laser safety protocols, and informed consent standards
• Diagnosis before treatment – Every patient receives a thorough clinical assessment before any procedure is recommended. Dr. Nikolic does not perform treatments unless clinically indicated
• Sterile clinical environment – All procedures are performed using single‑use sterile consumables, DHA‑approved equipment, and strict aseptic technique
• Private, unhurried consultations – Each patient receives dedicated time for thorough assessment, discussion, and questions. We never rush
• Transparent, ethical practice – No misleading claims, no guarantees of specific results – only honest, professional medical advice
• Integrated care pathway – From diagnosis to treatment, everything under one roof

Your Specialist: Dr. Olivera Nikolic

Dr. Olivera Nicolic is board Certified Dermatologist and Venerologist and Master of Medical Science in Laser Therapy. 

Dr. Nikolic is a DHA‑licensed dermatology specialist practicing at ELEMENTAL Day Surgical Center. She holds an MD degree with specialisation in dermatology and venereology and has over 30 years of specialist experience . Her areas of expertise include medical dermatology, dermatosurgery, laser treatment, light therapy, and aesthetic dermatology. Dr. Nikolic has served as Medical Director at renowned clinics across the Middle East and Europe, implementing cutting‑edge standards of care . She is known for her meticulous diagnostic approach, her commitment to patient education, and her ability to create natural‑looking results.

Dr. Nikolic does not perform procedures unless clinically indicated. Her priority is always patient safety, accurate diagnosis, and honest communication about what treatment can and cannot achieve. She follows all DHA requirements, including proper informed consent, aseptic technique, and the use of approved equipment.

Book Your Consultation
If you are struggling with active acne or are troubled by persistent acne scars, the first step is a thorough clinical consultation with Dr. Olivera Nikolic. She will assess your skin, explain your diagnosis, and develop a personalised treatment plan based on clinical evidence and your individual needs.

To schedule a private consultation at ELEMENTAL Day Surgical Center, please contact us via phone, WhatsApp, or our online booking system.