Acne scars are the harsh reminders of the acne issues that have troubled you for a long period of time. Nothing can be harsher than clearing the subtle acne but finding you trapped in the permanent scars.
If you are also one of those unfortunate people who cannot find the way to get rid of acne without leaving acne scars then read on to find the solutions.
What are Acne Scars?
Scar is a permanent change in the surface of the skin that is produced because of the healing process. Fibrous tissues are formed when the white blood cells fights against bacteria and causes some change in the cells of the skin. There are different types of acne scars.
Ice Pick Scars
Small holes on the surface of the skin are termed ice pick scars. As the name says they appear like ice pick holes. Sometimes they are deep enough that they cannot be removed by surface dermabrasion or resurfacing.
Keloid Scars
The most painful and obvious scars are keloid scars. The keloid scars spread out from acne site. They are caused by excessive production of collagen. They are normally pink in color.
Boxcar scars
These are the scars that are flatter on bottom and do not go as deep as ice pack scars. They can be easily treated by dermabrasion or laser resurfacing.
The Removal of Acne Scars
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is effective in removing acne scars from the surface of the skin. First an anesthetic is used. After this the dermatologist moves a high-speed brush across the surface of the face. This process effectively takes off the layers of the skin. After some days the skin regenerates. The new skin do not have the acne scars, even if they are present their appearance is less obvious on the new skin. Another type of dermabrasion is microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is less invasive as well as less effective compared to dermabrasion.
Laser treatments
Carbon dioxide laser can remove some scarring tissues. Normally a single treatment is enough to carry out the job. Burning, redness and itching is enough and can be felt for many weeks after having the treatment.
Surgery
Surgery for getting rid of acne scars includes skin grafts and is a last tool for removing ice pick scars.
Drugs
Keloids do not respond well to dermabrasion, surgery or laser treatments. Some topical solutions with retinoid as an active ingredient are good for treating these scars. Some steroids can also be injected around the acne scars.
OTC Treatments for Acne Scar Removal
There is no over-the-counter treatment for removing acne scars. Still there are some treatments that help in reducing the appearance of the scars. These treatments are worth trying specifically for a new scar.