Acne Scarring
While many teenagers and young adults experience acne, some individuals may experience it into adulthood, or throughout their entire lives. When acne causes scarring, it can be quite noticeable, causing sufferers to feel self-conscious and embarrassed with low self-esteem. Thankfully, there are a number of effective cosmetic treatments that can help diminish the appearance of acne scarring.
What is Acne Scar Treatment?
Acne scarring can be treated using a number of methods, depending on the severity of scarring, the number of scars, their location, and their type/shape. At WalkerMD, we perform the following acne scar treatments, oftentimes as a combination approach, as acne scar treatment is highly individualized to each person.
Types of Acne Scar Treatment
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CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing removes the topmost layer of the skin to stimulate collagen production for a more even complexion. As your skin heals, it will appear smoother and tighter, resulting in the diminishment or elimination of your acne scarring. Laser resurfacing can be used for all types of acne scarring on those with lighter skin tones.
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Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a very popular treatment for acne scarring. The goal of dermabrasion is to exfoliate the skin, removing the topmost layer of the skin. It can be used on small areas of skin as well as larger areas and is sometimes performed alongside a chemical peel. Dermabrasion is often performed in more than one stage, especially in cases when scarring is deep or large areas are being treated. This solution is best to treat shallow scars, however, it may also help to lessen the appearance of deeper scars.
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Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is a topical treatment that involves the use of a chemical solution to slough away damaged outer layers of the skin. While chemical peels are most commonly used on the face, they can also be used on the neck, décolletage, and hands. Chemical peels can be used for all types of acne scars, particularly deeper scars.
Subcision: Subcision is a minor procedure for treating depressed ice pick scars and wrinkles using a needle inserted through a puncture in the skin surface and its sharp edges maneuvered under the defect to make subcuticular cuts to release the scar from the underlying tissue. The principle of this procedure is to break the fibrotic strands, which tether the scar to the underlying subcutaneous tissue. The depression is lifted by the releasing action of the procedure, as well as from connective tissue that forms during the course of normal wound healing. Oftentimes, a dermal filler is injected into the site of subcised scar.
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Needling or rolling
This involves rolling a needle-studded device over the skin to stimulate underlying tissue, specifically collagen and elastin. It’s a safe, simple, and effective technique for acne scarring. The result is subtle, and you may need to repeat the treatments. We typically recommend a minimum of three treatments, however, each treatment plan varies depending on your skin.
Who is a Good Candidate for Acne Scar Treatment?
Individuals who are suffering from acne scars, are overall healthy and have realistic expectations for their results that can benefit from acne scar treatment. Depending on the type of treatment performed, there may be different qualifications for candidacy. The best way to determine if acne scar treatment is right for you is to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Walker at our Atlanta location.
How is Acne Scar Treatment Done?
Treatment techniques will differ depending on the type of acne scars you have. Most clients receive local anesthesia to receive these treatments. However, general anesthesia may be used in cases where very large areas are being treated. Laser resurfacing involves the use of an ablative CO2 laser to target acne scars, while dermabrasion requires the use of a special exfoliating instrument called a dermabrader. During a chemical peel, a special chemical solution will be painted onto your face, and then removed after the appropriate amount of time. All of these acne scar treatments are non-surgical and are performed on an outpatient basis, so you can return home to recover.
Acne Scar Treatment Recovery
Because acne scar treatments are performed on an outpatient basis, patients can return home directly after their treatment. Downtime will vary depending on the specific treatment you received. Individuals who receive acne scar treatments often experience skin redness, swelling, and mild discomfort. Prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications can be used to help control discomfort. Dr. Walker will instruct you on how to best care for your treatment area during recovery, and will also inform you on when you can return to strenuous activities, exercise, work, and school.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are tired of living with acne scars and wish to improve your skin, acne scar treatments may be able to help. Contact our Atlanta office today to schedule your consultation appointment with Dr. Walker. This will give you the chance to speak with him about what you wish to achieve with acne scar treatment, as well as ask any questions that you may have.
