Acne Scars (Pitted, Atrophic, Hypertrophic) Acne Scar treatment

Acne impacts the lives of millions of people every day. Even after an outbreak has been resolved, acne scars may remain.  While acne scars can’t be removed completely there are several products and processes that can minimize their appearance. When collagen in the ski is damaged from the inflammation associated with acne, scarring can occur. When there is a loss of collagen the scar shows up as a pitted scar. Ice pick scars and atrophic scars are examples of this type of acne scar. When the scarring is raised it’s called hypertrophic. Hypertrophic scars are more common on the back and shoulders than on the face.

In addition, some people may experience more pronounced scarring. For example, African Americans may have more pronounced acne scars due to hyperpigmentation. Other ethnicities with darker pigmentation may also have a higher risk of scarring. Hispanics and people of Middle Eastern descent may need to take special care to avoid scarring.

Types of Scar Treatment

1. Dermabrasion is a commonly used technique to soften the appearance of acne scars. Dermabrasion involves resurfacing the skin using some form of abrasive. The outer layer of skin is called the epidermis. When a treatment is designed only to impact the epidermis it is called a superficial Dermabrasion. The second layer of the skin is called the dermis. Deep Dermabrasion treats this layer of skin. Superficial Dermabrasion has a shorter recovery time, but it may not be as effective for severe scarring. Deep Dermabrasion may take weeks of recovery while both layers of skin heal.
   Laser resurfacing may also reduce the severity of acne scars.
2. Subcision is a procedure where a needle is inserted under the skin and then used to disturb the underlying scar tissue.
3. Other techniques involve removal of the scar tissue completely using surgical procedures such as punch and excision and the use of grafts to minimize damage.
4. Topical creams and acne peels are also available.