Acne Scar Treatment

Scars may develop on the skin due to various factors such as acne, surgical stitches, injuries, burns, and other traumas. Depending on the severity of the skin damage, scars can manifest as uneven, bumpy, stretched, or discoloured areas on the skin’s surface.

Thanks to advancements in cosmetic treatments, it is now possible to eliminate or improve the appearance of scars through laser therapy and other minimally invasive methods. These innovative procedures have significantly enhanced the look and texture of older facial and body scars.

What is an Acne Scar?

An acne scar manifests as an irregularity on the skin’s surface that can develop following the healing of an acne lesion. The scars take the form of skin holes and depression, which are often found in different sizes, depths, and shapes. The underlying cause of an acne scar is inflammation of the skin as a result of severe and persistent acne. During a skin healing process, it generates new collagen fibers to repair the deep wound that is caused by acne. However, the recovery is not as seamless as the original skin which results in the formation of acne scars. Furthermore, the act of popping and scaring acne blemishes can further exacerbate scaring in the skin.

What are the Types of Scaring?

Scars are a visible reminder of a past skin injury that has affected the deeper layers of the skin where collagen fibers play a crucial role in providing structural support. The impact of scars on individuals can vary depending on the type of scar they have. Following are the different types of scars:

Atrophic scars: These are depressed scars that result from a loss of tissue. They manifest as sunken or indented pits on the skin, often seen after severe acne.
Hypertrophic scars: These are raised, thickened scars characterized by an excess deposition of collagen. They can be itchy and painful, commonly observed after burns and injuries.
Keloid scars: These are enlarged scars that extend beyond the original wound boundaries. They have a tendency to grow in size and do not naturally diminish.
Contracture scars: These are tight, inflexible bands of scar tissue that restrict normal skin movement and function. They typically develop as a consequence of severe burns.

What are the different Types of Procedures Done for Treating an Acne Scar?

There are several outpatient procedures available that can enhance the appearance of scars using minimally invasive techniques. Here is a summary of the functioning of popular scar removal options:

Dermabrasion

It involves the removal of the top layers of scarred skin by utilizing a rapidly rotating device equipped with a rough wire brush or diamond fraise.
The controlled abrasion induces injury to the skin, stimulating the production of new collagen and promoting skin regeneration.
To ensure patient comfort, dermabrasion is typically performed under local anesthesia.
For gradual scar smoothing, three to five sessions are usually scheduled, with a gap of 2–4 weeks between each session.
Dermabrasion is effective for raised, thickened scars and uneven skin texture.

Chemical Peels

Administer a chemical solution such as trichloroacetic acid, glycolic acid, etc. onto the scar. The exfoliating agent induces controlled damage to the epidermis, enabling new skin with enhanced tone and texture to surface. The extent of the peel is determined by the severity of the scar and the desired outcomes. Multiple superficial peels or a couple of deeper peels can be carried out. This process helps in enhancing pigmentary alterations, diminishing fine wrinkles, and reducing acne scars.

Microneedling

Utilizes extremely small needles in a roller or pen tool to puncture the skin, initiating the healing process of wounds. Microneedle pens with customizable needle lengths enable precise penetration into the dermis to promote collagen production. Typically done every 3–4 weeks for approximately 5–8 sessions, this treatment is beneficial for treating depressed acne scars and rejuvenating the skin. The recovery time is brief, with redness lasting only 1–2 days.

Scar Surgery

The procedure entails the removal of constricted bands of scar tissue. This excision aids in loosening the skin and enhancing functionality. It is frequently paired with laser resurfacing of adjacent scar tissue. Adequate wound care is essential following the surgery. This method is employed for severe burn contractures that result in disability.

Dermal Fillers

Hyaluronic acid fillers are administered through direct injection into depressed scars such as icepick marks or boxcar scars. By injecting the filler, it elevates the scar from beneath and raises the skin surface to match the level of normal skin. This method offers temporary enhancement that typically lasts for approximately 6–12 months. To sustain the desired outcome, repeat injections are necessary. These are a few methods utilized in scar removal procedures to modify and reduce old scars on the body.

However, the most favored and efficient approach at present is laser scar treatment. Let’s delve into the techniques and procedures involved in this treatment.

Laser Scar Removal Techniques

Laser therapy targets the scarred skin with precise light energy which results in a controlled resurfacing of scar tissue and stimulation of new collagen production. This treatment method offers several benefits in scar revision. Different types of laser scar removal techniques:

Ablative Lasers
Non-Ablative Lasers
Vascular Lasers
Collagen Stimulation