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2026.09.28
What's the Difference Between Alma Hybrid and Potenza? How to Choose a Treatment for Pores, Acne Scars, and Pitted Scars
As an Assistant Professor, Associate Ward Director, and Chief of Dermatopathology at the university hospital dermatology department, I deepened my expertise through academic presentations and paper publications both domestically and internationally. I have handled a wide range of treatments, from birthmark therapy in children to adult pigmentation concerns, utilizing various lasers and injection therapies, while also contributing to community healthcare. Through encountering numerous cases, I strongly felt the potential and necessity of aesthetic medicine, resolving to pursue further expertise. Building upon my solid dermatological knowledge and meticulous diagnostic skills, I value treatments that gently support each individual's skin while bringing out its inherent beauty.
Even after my acne has cleared up, I'm still concerned about the unevenness of my skin.
As you research treatment options, you may find yourself considering cosmetic procedures.
Even among those options, there are several choices, and many people find themselves unsure which one to choose.
BIANCA CLINIC also offers several treatments for enlarged pores, acne scars, and pitted scars.
So, in this article, we’ll focus on and explain the differences between Alma Hybrid and Potenza.
First, let's look at the differences between Alma Hybrid and Potenza
The Alma Hybrid Scar treatment uses two types of lasers, while the Potenza treatment for enlarged pores and acne scars primarily uses micro-needles and radiofrequency (RF).
|
Comparison Items |
Alma Hybrid (Scar) |
Potenza (Treatment for Acne Scars) |
|---|---|---|
|
Key Mechanisms |
Irradiation using a combination of a CO₂ laser and a 1570 nm laser |
Using microneedles and radiofrequency (RF) |
|
Treating Acne Scars |
Designing laser irradiation to match the surface irregularities |
Utilizes needle stimulation and RF heat. The tips and medications used vary depending on the treatment. |
|
Post-Treatment Reactions |
Redness, a sensation of heat, roughness, peeling, etc. |
Redness, a sensation of heat, etc. |
|
Points to Consider When Choosing |
Details of the laser treatment and the amount of time available after the procedure |
Whether tips or medication are required, and how much time you can set aside after the treatment |
*Please note that pain levels, recovery progress, and the number of sessions required vary from person to person. You cannot determine the relative effectiveness or downtime of a treatment based solely on the name of the device.
How do the approaches to acne scars and pores differ?
The Scar treatment combines a CO₂ laser with a 1570 nm laser. With the Potenza, the treatment approach varies depending on the tip used for acne scars and the specific treatment protocol.
The Alma Hybrid uses two different types of lasers
Alma Hybrid™ is a laser treatment device equipped with two types of lasers: a CO₂ laser that vaporizes moisture from the skin’s surface, and a 1570 nm laser that delivers heat to the deeper layers without vaporizing the surface.
At Bianca Clinic, our Alma Hybrid Scar treatment combines these two methods to tailor the treatment to the specific condition of acne scars and pitted scars.
Alma Hybrid Case Studies
[Treatment Period and Number of Sessions] Left: Before treatment; Right: 2 weeks after treatment; Number of sessions: 1
*This graph shows the percentile ranking of skin condition compared to others in the same age group.
Yellow indicates the assessment before treatment, and purple indicates the assessment one month after treatment.
After the treatment, an increase in the score was observed, confirming that the condition of the pores has improved to a level that is better than that of peers of the same age.
[Side Effects and Risks] Redness, a burning sensation, pain, roughness, peeling, swelling, scabbing, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, burns, infection, scarring, etc.
[Cost] Scar (Full Face, 1 Session): 98,000 yen *Surface anesthesia fee of 3,630 yen is charged separately
This is a case study of treating pores with Alma Hybrid.
A skin analysis device also confirmed that the number of pores had decreased.
Another distinctive feature of Alma Hybrid is that it offers additional treatments, such as “Soft” for skin texture and fine dry lines, “Lift” for skin tightening, and treatments designed to be combined with facelifts.
If you'd like to learn more about the Alma Hybrid treatment options and results, please see "What Is Alma Hybrid?"
Potenza uses a combination of needles and radiofrequency (RF)
The POTENZA™ treatment for pores and acne scars uses microneedles and radiofrequency (RF).
At Bianca Clinic, we also offer treatments that combine various medications using tips designed to target melasma, fine lines, and inflammatory acne.
If you're interested in other menu items,Potenza Treatment PagePlease check the following.
The mechanism behind Potenza's potential effectiveness against crater-like acne scars lies in its ability to deliver high-frequency waves directly to the dermis using ultra-fine needles.
When cells are stimulated by this process, it promotes the production of collagen and elastin, which helps repair the tissue damaged by acne scars.
Potenza Case Studies
[Treatment Period and Number of Sessions] Top: Before treatment; Bottom: After 3 sessions
[Side Effects and Risks] Infection, hyperpigmentation, erythema, folliculitis, etc.
[Cost] 291,060 yen
As shown in this case, for concerns such as enlarged pores and acne scars, we can also use Macuum, a fine-particle PLLA (polylactic acid) formulation specifically designed for Potenza.
Which has less pain and downtime?
It is not possible to make a blanket judgment about which option is better in terms of pain and downtime.
It is important to confirm the details of the actual treatment, such as the irradiation settings and the type of tip used.
You cannot determine just by the name of the treatment that “this one will be less painful” or “it will definitely provide relief faster.”
Depending on the treatment settings, Alma Hybrid may cause redness, a sensation of heat, roughness, or peeling, which typically subside within a few days to a week.
On the other hand, the redness caused by Potenza may last 1 to 2 days, and the sensation of heat may last 3 to 4 days.
If you have an important event coming up, please let us know the date during your appointment.
We will propose a treatment plan that is manageable for you, including guidance on how to care for yourself after your procedure.
How Do You Choose a Treatment for Pores, Acne Scars, and Pitted Scars?
We assess the shape and depth of the unevenness, the overall condition of the skin, and the amount of time available after the treatment, and make our selection based not just on the name of the device but also on the specific treatment menu.
First, examine the condition of the unevenness.
The uneven surfaces known as “craters” also vary in shape and depth.
For example, the treatment options for a narrow, deep indentation and a wide, gentle indentation may not be the same.
We’ll determine the treatment plan after confirming which areas are of concern to you and whether you’d like to improve the overall texture of your skin.
Depending on your condition, we may suggest a different treatment or a combination of treatments.
Check all the way down to the menu you'll be using
When using Alma Hybrid to specifically target acne scars, the "Scar" mode is the main focus.
The Potenza treatment also varies depending on whether tips or solutions specifically designed for acne scars are used.
When seeking advice, be sure to confirm not only the name of the device but also which menu item you’re using and the purpose of the operation.
Consider the patient's progress and treatment plan together
If you let us know the length of time you can tolerate some redness, how often you can come in for treatment, and any other skin concerns you have, it will make it easier for us to narrow down your treatment options.
It is not possible to determine a standard number of sessions or the changes that will occur after just one session.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alma Hybrid and Potenza
We’ll answer common questions you might have when choosing a treatment, such as “Which one is better?”, “What about deep craters?”, and “What about downtime?”
Q. Which is better for acne scars: Alma Hybrid or Potenza?
A. The best options will vary depending on the shape and depth of the unevenness, other skin concerns, and the amount of downtime you can allow for.
At Bianca Clinic, we offer Alma Hybrid Scar and Potenza treatments for acne scars.
After examining your skin, we will determine the most appropriate treatment or combination of treatments.
Q. Should I choose the Alma Hybrid for deep craters?
A. We cannot determine the treatment based on depth alone.
The appropriate approach varies depending on the shape and extent of the unevenness, and in some cases, treatments other than laser or radiofrequency may be considered.
First, please schedule a consultation to discuss the area of concern and your treatment options.
Q. Does Potenza use needles?
A. Potenza offers several different types of treatments, including those that use needles and those that do not.
For treatments targeting acne scars and enlarged pores, we primarily use microneedling and radiofrequency (RF).
Please check the treatment page or consult with your doctor to confirm which chip to use.
Q. Which one has less downtime?
A. It's not possible to make a blanket comparison.
With the Alma Hybrid, the results vary depending on the laser settings, and with the Potenza, they vary depending on the tip and treatment details.
Since redness or a sensation of heat may occur, please let us know your schedule if you have plans so we can discuss them.
Q. Are there any other treatments that can help with acne scars?
A. Yes. At Bianca Clinic,Subdivision、TCA Cross、TrifilProWe also carry these items, among others.
Since the appropriate approach varies depending on the shape and depth of the indentation, we will discuss treatment options during your examination.
Choose a Treatment Based on the Condition of Your Pores and Acne Scars
Both Alma Hybrid and Potenza offer treatments that target pores, acne scars, and pitted scars.
The difference lies in the approach—whether to use a laser or a needle and radiofrequency (RF)—and in the design of each treatment menu.
At BIANCA CLINIC, we discuss your skin condition and desired downtime before determining the best treatment option for you.
If you're unsure which option is right for you, please discuss it with us during your appointment.
