Acne Scar Removal Treatments: Which One Will Work for You?

Acne scars can make some people very uncomfortable. Fortunately there are now many ways to ameliorate the scarring for those who feel the need to reduce or remove the scars.

Acne is a bane to most people, mostly during adolescence, when hormones are raging in the body and will invariably result in scars will vary from one person to another. For the majority, the acne disappears soon after this phase. For others the trouble may remain for years on end.

Modern skill and technology offer several choices for addressing scars including those left by acne attacks. The particular treatment depends on a number of factors including size, depth and degree of scarring, individual preference, and of course, financial considerations. As with any medical procedure, it is advisable to consult with a specialist, a dermatologist in this case, before undergoing any procedure. Whatever, treatment option is selected, bear in mind that it is unlikely that scars are removed completely.

How acne scars are formed and the types of acne scars:

There are several types of scars that result from acne which will include atrophic macules, depressed scars, "ice-pick" scars, soft scars, among others.

Acne scarring results from the body's response to tissue damage when it carries out cell restoration and the attendant infection prevention action. A substance called collagen is used to effect tissue repair. When an excess of collagen reaches the damaged area, it forms into a mass with a smooth surface resulting in scarring.

The following are the different types of treatment that can be done to remove or lessen acne scars:

Dermabrasion

For most scars, treatment is made by a technique called dermabrasion. This involves the use of a high speed brush that removes a thin skin layer. This results in reshaping of the scar and reducing its depth. A local anesthetic is applied prior to the operation.

Microdermabrasion

Another practice similar to the one described above is Microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion uses aluminum oxide crystals to remove minute layers of skin.

Collagen Injection

One method that is effective for a majority of cases makes the scar less pronounced by injecting collagen under the skin to lift up the scar. This is a temporary solution which must be repeated at 3 to 6 month intervals.

Body Tissue Injection

A similar injection technique uses body tissues instead of collagen. The body tissues come from the patient's own body and grown in a laboratory until they ready to be injected into the scars. The process is called autologus fibroblast . Although this lasts longer than the collagen injection, this must also be repeated at least 3 times and at regular intervals to achieve satisfactory results.

Laser

One of the most effective and permanent treatments uses lasers of differing strength to alter the shape of the scar. Several operations may need to be carried out on each scar to be most effective.

Skin Grafting

Skin surgery and skin grafting are other options that can be considered. As these are rather invasive and carry the highest risk, opting for them should be made as a last resort, where all other techniques would be ineffective.

As you can see, there are many options available to you. But before selecting the one that suits your circumstances and budget, consult with a dermatologist.

Sources:

*Acne Scar Removal, Acne-Resource.org

* Autologous Cultured Fibroblast Injection for Facial Contour Deformities: A Prospective, Placebo-Controlled, Phase III Clinical Trial , Abstract by Robert A. Weiss MD, Margaret A. Weiss MD, Karen L. Beasley MD, Girish Munavalli MD, SkinTherapyletter.com