Choosing the Best Acne Scar TreatmentsOnce active acne has cleared, scarring may still remain. Most of us get through the acne experience without major scarring, but some types of acne are more prone to developing scars. The greater the irritation and inflammation the more likely scarring will develop. Until recently, treatment has been less than effective. However, new methods are available which are showing promising results. The type of scars (depth, shape and location) and your skin type will determine which treatment will have the best chance of a successful outcome.
Laser One of the more recent advances in treating depressed acne scars is the erbium (YAG) or CO2 laser. The laser is best suited to resurfacing small irregular scars by vaporizing thin layers of skin and promoting collagen production. A local anesthetic is used as the procedure is somewhat painful. A single treatment may be effective or additional treatments may be required for the best results. Healing will take from 3 to 10 days and redness may persist for several months. Laser acne scar treatment is quite costly. Dermabrasion An older resurfacing method, dermabrasion uses a high-speed brush or diamond-edged wheel to remove skin. It is used most often for back or chest acne scars and is not useful for all types of scars. Again a local anesthetic is used and several treatments may be required. Swelling is common and scabbing will occur. Redness may last several weeks. Microdermabrasion Similar to gentle "sand blasting", minute aluminum oxide crystals are sprayed onto the skin while a vacuum collects the crystals and dead skin. Other than temporary redness lasting a few days, there are few side effects and no anesthetic is needed for this quick procedure. Best used for minor acne scars, repeat treatment may be necessary. Chemical Peel An acid solution is applied to the skin which removes the top thin layer revealing a smoother layer of skin. It is a quick process most useful for post inflammatory skin color changes or minor scarring. Swelling and redness as well as dryness and flakiness are common and may take a few days or weeks to heal. Fillers Various forms of collagen can be injected beneath the scar to add volume. Be sure to test that you are not allergic to the collagen which is from cattle. It is also not appropriate if you have an autoimmune disease. Will need to be repeated in 3 to 6 months. Another option is collecting your own fat for injection. This will only last 6 to 18 months as the fat will be reabsorbed. In the end no one acne scar treatment is going to be right for everyone. A dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon should be consulted to decide what scar treatment is best for you. All procedures need to be performed by a qualified and experienced professional. |