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Acne scar
Acne is a skin condition that affects up to 80% of people in
their teens and twenties, and up to 5% of older adults. While many
people recover from acne without any permanent effects, some people
are left with disfiguring acne scars. The redness or
hyperpigmentation is seen as the skin goes through its healing and
remodeling process, which takes approximately 6-12 months. If no
more acne lesions develop in that area, the skin can heal normally.
Any color change or skin defect still present after 1 year is
considered to be a permanent defect or scar.
It's important to be realistic about treatment, and understand that
most scars can't be completely erased. But marked improvement can be
achieved with the right treatment or combination of treatments.
1. Laser treatments
Laser treatments for acne scars come in two forms: ablative and
non-ablative.
Ablative lasers: resurface the skin by removing outer layers. The
"new" skin is smoother, atrophic scars have been reduced in depth,
and the overall look of scarring is softened. Skin generally heals
within two weeks, but can remain red for a period of time after
healing. The redness fades over the course of several weeks to
several months.
Non-ablative: lasers create changes in the dermis without causing
damage to the skin's surface. Non-ablative lasers tighten the skin
and stimulate new collagen formation. These lasers are most
beneficial for mild acne scarring and pigmentation problems, rather
than deep, pitted scars.
Hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation, are possible side effect of
laser treatment.
2. Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion, not to be confused with microdermabrasion which will
do little for acne scarring and are primarily for fine lines and
complexion rejuvenation, is performed under local anesthesia at the
clinic. A rapidly rotating wire brush abrades the top layers of the
skin. After healing, the look of scars has softened and pitted scars
are reduced in depth. Dermabrasion is used to treat depressed boxed
scarring. This procedure may make ice pick scars look more prominent
because while narrow at the skin's surface, they often widen near
the base.
It may cause pigmentation changes in darker skin tones. The
procedure usually takes about a half an hour to an hour, and the
skin is either frozen or numbed first.
Recovery: For a few days following the procedure, your skin will
look scraped, and then a scab will form. Swelling occurs usually as
well. After the scabbing has fallen off, your skin will be reddish
for several weeks to several months. Most people can return to work
after two weeks.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a machine is used to discharge ultra-fine
aluminum oxide crystals through a tube and onto the skin. During a
microdermabrasion treatment, the crystals are simultaneously
vacuumed away. There may be slight improvement of the most
superficial of acne scars. Stimulation of new cell growth occurs,
which gives the skin a glow and a smoother texture.
There is usually no recovery time. You can go back to your normal
schedule right away. A series of treatments is needed.
Dermal Fillers
Another treatment option for depressed acne scars is the use of
dermal fillers. A filler substance is injected into the acne scar,
elevating the base of the scar so it is more even with the skin's
surface. Collagen, hyaluronic acid, and fat transferred from the
patient's own body are often used. The doctor will help you decide
which filler will be most appropriate for you.
There is usually no recovery time. You can go back to your normal
schedule right away.
Steroid Treatments
Steroid treatments are often used for raised hypertrophic and keloid
scars. Steroids may be injected directly into the scar tissue,
causing the tissue to shrink or flatten, softening the scar tissue
and improving the overall appearance. Corticosteroid creams and
impregnated tapes (which are infused with a corticosteroid, applied
over the scar and left on for several hours at a time) may also be
used to treat hypertrophic scars.
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