After fighting the long battle of getting rid of acne, it can be a major disappointment to be left with acne scars. As much of a downer as acne scars can be, you can utilize a variety of treatments to lessen their appearance or even remove them altogether. Be mindful, however, that it takes time to get rid of acne scars. You will need patience and persistence to achieve the clear skin you desire.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are administered in a dermatologist’s office and involve applying an acid to the face in an attempt to remove imperfections. They may burn or sting. Several acid strengths are used, from the mild glycolic acid to lactic acid, phenols and the strongest, trichloroacetic acid. These treatments are intended to make your skin peel, thus increasing skin cell turnover and fading away scars. Chemical peels work on shallow or discolored scars.
Topical Retinoids
Topical retinoids are prescribed for speeding up the rate you shed dead skin cells. Made from vitamin A, these treatments are applied to the skin once a day and may cause redness and sun sensitivity. After several weeks, your skin should look smoother and more even-toned. One of the most popular brand names for this drug is Retin-A.
Fillers
For very deep acne scars, called pits, filler materials are used to make them flush with the rest of your skin. Fillers are injected into the scar to help plump it up. Materials like fat and collagen are commonly used, though repeat treatments are necessary.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion involves using a wire brush that rotates to sand off the top surface of the skin. Patients are placed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the size of the area being treated, and then the scars are sanded with the brush. Your skin will need several weeks to heal, but once it does, the surface will be smoother and more even.
Laser Treatments
Laser treatments can help smooth the top layer of skin and make acne scars less noticeable. This treatment involves burning the skin to stimulate new tissue growth and a boost in collagen production to help fill in pits and dips.
Surgical Procedures
For very severe acne scars, surgery is sometimes the only way to achieve the best results. Subcision involves cutting the scar out of the skin and stitching together the tissue to create a more even surface. For very large scars, grafts may be used from other parts of your body to fill in the gaps of removed tissue.
