We’ll say this once and for all – no treatment or medication can make acne scars disappear completely. Do not believe such claims. However, there is good news. Some acne scar reduction treatments can lessen the scars significantly and restore your skin’s texture. 

What Are Acne Scars?

Acne scars might serve as a reminder of your stubborn pimples. Acne is common among teenagers and young people. About 95% of people in the age group of 11 to 30 undergo a phase of acne. When the pimple is picked at or popped, the dermis suffers damage and eventually, acne scars form. 

Acne is caused due to excess oil production, inflammation and bacteria. These cause the skin to stretch and the inflammation will make the pore break. If the acne is severe, the scarring will also be severe. As acne scars can affect your confidence, it is best to get them treated fast. 

What Are the Types of Acne Scars?

There are different types of acne scars and people may have a combination of these types. The most common ones are:

Boxcar Acne Scarring

This type of scar is usually horseshoe-shaped and has sharp edges. The severity of these scars depends on their depth. If the scarring is shallow then they are easier to treat, but if it is deep then you might need several treatment sessions.

Ice Pick Acne Scarring 

These scars have a crater-like shape and the divots go deeper into the skin. Because of their hole-like appearance and depth, ice pick acne scarring is the most difficult scarring to treat. 

Rolling Acne Scarring

These types of acne scars have warped skin that creates the appearance of rolling mounds on the face. 

What Are the Treatments Available for Acne Scar Reduction?

Depending on the type and severity of the acne scars, various treatments are recommended. 

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is one of the most recommended treatment options for acne scar reduction. This involves scraping away the scarred skin down to the dermis with coarse material. The surface scars are usually fully removed while there is significant fading of the deeper scars. 

Microneedling

Microneedling involves using a device with tiny needles to penetrate the scar tissue. This process stimulates the skin to produce more collagen which in turn lightens the scarred area. After several sessions, the results are notable. 

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Also Read: 5 Things That Micro needling Can Treat

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Laser Resurfacing

This technique is usually used along with dermabrasion.  A focused beam of light with a specific energy level is used to stimulate the tissue and trigger collagen response. It is important to choose a skin rejuvenation clinic with certified professionals for getting this treatment since when carelessly done, it can cause skin darkening.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are one of the easiest acne scar treatments. A peel containing one of the chemicals like phenol, glycolic acid or salicylic acid is placed over the skin and left there till it takes effect. 

These chemicals help remove the top layer of the skin and allow the new cells to grow. There are different types of peels and depending on the severity of the scarring, your dermatologist will recommend the best one for you. 

Soft Tissue Fillers

Injecting collagen or other fillers in the area of scarring can plump up the skin and make the scars less noticeable. The results are temporary and you will have to do this repeatedly to maintain the results. 

Usually, a combination of two or three of the above-mentioned treatments is used for reducing acne scars. For example, boxcar acne scarring can be treated using a combination of dermabrasion, micro-needling and chemical peels.

Rani MD 

Don’t let acne scars deter you from taking the lead! Contact us to get the best treatment for acne scars.

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