Acne and Scars

Acne is one of the commonest ailments affecting millions of people each year. Attacking primarily the upper part of the body – face, chest, back, neck, shoulders, and arms. People of any age can get acne. It is estimated that almost 85% of youngsters aged between 12 and 24 have acne and scars, even if a minor case at least once.

While acne can be embarrassing and frustrating, the scars left behind can be terribly dreadful. Thankfully, there are medical and non-medical remedies to treat and prevent the recurrence of these marks.

What causes acne scar marks?

Acne is caused by clogged pores that result from the build-up of oil, microbes, and dead skins in the pores. The inflamed pores become the primary cause of this. To fight acne, the body’s natural defense mechanism produces collagen. However, when the collagen is not enough, it can cause the appearance of indented or depressed scar marks. These are also called atrophic scars. There are three types; u-shaped called boxcar, v-shaped called ice pick, and rolling scars. Raised scar marks, called hypertrophic, are also common. These are caused due to increased collagen during the remedial process.

Treatment of acne scars

Acne scars can be treated medically and non-medically.

Non-medical methods

The treatment methods usually deal with home remedies, natural methods, over-the-counter medications, lotions, etc. From salicylic acid to retinoids, lactic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, shea butter, coconut oil, lemon juice, raw honey, etc., there is a myriad of treatments that one comes across. However, most of the non-medical methods are not fully researched. Using them, DIY can cause more harm than good, especially if not applied the right way.

Irritation, swelling, dryness, hyperpigmentation are some of the adverse reactions. It is important to speak to a subject matter expert before applying any of these methods for scar treatment.

Medical methods

These procedures involve professional expertise. You need to visit and consult with a dermatologist, a skin specialist, qualified, and learned in treating various conditions of the largest organ in the human body.

There are different kinds of treatment possible for acne scars. There are in-office procedures that are mostly non or minimally invasive. There are surgical methods, too, which might involve qualified plastic surgeons to remove the scar. Here’s a brief about some of the medical in-office treatment methods.

1. Dermabrasion

In this technique, a rotating instrument is utilized to exfoliate the skin. As a result, the outer skin layer gets removed. In most cases, this technique works excellently well for the facial skin. Besides acne scars, dermabrasion is also used for removing fine lines and sun damage signs from the face. It is an outpatient procedure where anesthesia is applied to numb the skin.

Risk factors – Skin bruises, redness, swelling, dry skin, the appearance of tiny white bumps, and skin sensitivity to sunlight.

2. Chemical Peels

In this procedure, acid-based solutions are used to unclog skin pores. Chemical peels at the cellular level help remove damaged skin cells and replace them with new and healthier cells. The skin specialist determines the strength of the solution based on the severity of the scar. Only seasoned professionals must do this chemical exfoliation job with the help of the right equipment.

Risk Factors – Swelling, redness, change in skin color, scarring, and infection.

3. Laser resurfacing

In this process, the surface of the topmost skin layer is removed. It is quite effective for acne scars, but the area has to be covered until it heals in this process. The technique involves using a laser ray that heats the damaged collagen. It helps stimulate the body’s natural healing process. Consulting with a well-experienced dermatologist will help as the professional will first determine the skin type and advice the right laser procedure for the acne scar.

Risk Factors – Scarring, burns, bacterial infection, and change in skin color.

4. Radiofrequency Microneedling

This treatment procedure involves using needle-studded equipment or a handheld pen on the scar surface. It is a skin tightening procedure. The needle punctures the skin or creates micro-wounds stimulating collagen and elastin production. Radiofrequency waves are sometimes used, released from the needles for better results. The Dermapen Microneedling process can be long-drawn (about nine months), but it is very effective in healing depressed acne scars.

Risk Factors – Discomfort, redness, and mild swelling.

5. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers help treat different kinds of scars, wrinkles, smile lines, fine lines, crow’s feet, forehead lines, and more. Fillers are injectable and mostly used on soft tissues or under the depressed scar for uplifting the skin. The material used is collagen, hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, or ploy-L-lactic acid.

Risk Factors – Bruises, bleeding, scarring, infection, swelling, redness, rash, and lumps.

6. Canula or Subcision

This minor surgical procedure is carried out with the help of a small hypodermic needle. The scar breaks free from the underlying tissue with the needle. It diminishes as the skin rises. The process also involves promoting the release of collagen. It is most helpful in treating depressed scars.

Risk Factors – Pain and infection.

7. Cryosurgery

In this process, liquid nitrogen gas is used for treating acne scars and skin growths. The liquid gas is applied with either a cotton swab or sprayed at the targetted area. As a result, the area freezes immediately, which is later allowed to thaw to destroy skin cells.

Risk Factors – A mild burning sensation, loss of pigmentation, hair loss, bleeding, scarring, swelling, and blisters.

Prevention of Acne Scars

A lot can be done to prevent the outbreak of acne and the appearance of scars. As soon as it starts to appear, it is crucial to visit a qualified dermatologist. The fact is that the moment acne and pimples are under control, scarring can be under control too. Don’t try over-the-counter products that will further irritate the skin. These are things to avoid:

• Using harsh skincare products
• Aggressive scrubbing of the area
• Popping the acne
• Picking the wound scabs

There are a few tried-and-tested methods to prevent acne outbreaks. These include different medically-approved facials. Various kinds of medical facial treatments are available to keep acne under control. These include brightening facials for dark spots, classic for removing dead cells, LED anti-acne facial that helps promote collagen production, decongesting facials for whiteheads and blackheads, and enzyme for controlling scar marks.

Why 7DMC?

We are one of the top multi-specialty clinics in Dubai, with specialized skincare and dermatology center. Our certified dermatologists and skincare specialists study the patient’s exact skin and acne conditions before suggesting the most appropriate remedy. We are committed to offering comprehensive procedures for optimized results.

References

https://www.healthline.com/health/radiofrequency-microneedling#about

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324784#summary

https://www.healthline.com/health/acne-scars#minor-in–office-surgery

https://www.healthline.com/health/subcision

https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-causes-acne-scars-15517

https://www.asds.net/skin-experts/skin-treatments/cryosurgery

https://www.healthline.com/health/acne-scars

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324784

https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/derm-treat/scars

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/expert-answers/acne-scars/faq-20058101

https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/acne-scars.html