Among the various skin concerns, acne is one of the most bothersome due to its negative impact on skin appearance and beauty, as well as the potential pain it can cause. However, what makes the experience even more frustrating for those affected is the possibility of lingering scars long after the breakouts have healed. These scars, commonly known as acne marks or acne scars, often result from pimples that rupture due to pressure or frequent touching, leaving behind marks that may affect the surrounding skin. (1)
There are several types of acne scars, which is why it is recommended to consult a dermatologist to assess them and determine their type. This allows for the selection of the most appropriate treatment, whether through medication or medical procedures.
Acne scars are often a stubborn issue that requires patience and a combination of medicated creams and specialized cosmetic procedures; medications alone may not always be enough.
Here’s a simplified overview of the available options: (2)(3)
It’s essential to use sunscreen regularly to minimize the contrast between the scars and the surrounding skin. In addition, certain medical creams can help, including:
These promote skin exfoliation, stimulate cell renewal, and boost collagen production, improving skin texture. They are particularly suitable for:
This provides gentle exfoliation and is more effective in treating pigmentation than texture issues. It also helps renew the skin while reducing inflammation and redness. It is particularly beneficial for:
Acne scars often require treatment sessions, especially in cases of deep scars or those that do not respond adequately to topical creams.
There is no single best procedure for everyone, as the choice depends on the type and severity of the scars, as well as skin type. For this reason, the most effective approach is usually a combination of multiple treatment methods. These treatments are typically performed over several sessions to achieve noticeable improvement. (3)(4)
Chemical peels remove the top layer of the skin to reduce the appearance of deep and stubborn scars. They are categorized into three levels: light, medium, and deep peels.
Laser treatments, such as fractional laser therapy, are also a popular option for treating acne scars, especially when combined with prior chemical peeling.
However, laser treatments may cause skin pigmentation, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones or those prone to raised scars. That said, some advanced laser technologies are now designed to be safer for darker skin, with a lower risk of pigmentation.
DermaPen is a microneedling technique that uses a small, handheld device equipped with multiple fine needles. It is passed over the skin in areas affected by acne scars, stimulating the body's natural collagen production to help reduce the depth of the scars
This technique is performed using popular devices such as Vivace, Secret RF, and Morpheus 8, which combine microneedling with radiofrequency energy to deeply stimulate collagen production.
It is highly effective for moderate to deep scars and is considered safer for darker skin tones compared to certain laser treatments.
Filler injections are used to treat deep, sunken scars, as the filler helps to lift and smooth the skin. The effects of fillers typically last between 6 to 18 months, after which re-injection may be needed to maintain results.
This procedure is designed for deep, tethered scars that are attached to the underlying tissue, making them appear indented. A fine needle is inserted beneath the skin, and the doctor carefully moves it to cut the fibrous bands that pull the scar down, allowing the skin to lift and smooth out.
Depending on individual needs, dermatologists may recommend additional treatments such as mesotherapy, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections, diamond or crystal microdermabrasion, and more.
Don’t let acne scars hold you back, contact us today to book a consultation with our dermatologists and explore the best solutions for reducing acne scars.
