WEDNESDAY, companies April 5 (HealthDay News) — Reliant Technologies says its Fraxel Laser has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat acne scars, including deep “ice pick” marks usually found on the cheek.

As with skin damaged by the sun, scars contain low amounts of the protein collagen, which gives skin its durability and elasticity. The Fraxel Laser stimulates collagen remodeling of the skin, said a statement from the company, which added that scar severity was significantly reduced after three months among 92 percent of the 40 people who participated in clinical trials.

The laser device penetrates into the skin’s middle layer, called the dermis, to break down tissue that causes scars. Clinical testing revealed no serious adverse effects, Reliant said.

Since 2003, the device has received several approvals for other uses including skin resurfacing, wrinkle smoothing, and treatment of age spots, sun spots, and skin discoloration, the company said.

More information

To learn more about acne, visit the U.S. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.