Facial Acne Scar Treatment: Resurfacing Techniques

Probably one of the major complaints of acne is the development of scars. Scars may become permanent and can dramatically affect a person. As a result of this, several researchers have been conducting studies in attempts to find a facial acne scar treatment. In recent years new and improved treatments have come about and one of them are resurfacing treatments.

What's special about resurfacing treatments is that they are able to physically eliminate scars so that they are less visible. A resurfacing treatment could be used as a facial acne scar treatment. Techniques include microdermabrasion, chemical peels and laser treatment.

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a facial acne scar treatment that uses crystals to remove the top layers of the skin so that the depth of scars is reduced.

Benefits:

The benefits you can get from microdermabrasion are naturally glowing skin, smoother skin surface and painlessness.

Downsides:

Microdermabrasion can cause redness, irritation and a burning sensation that may last 24 hours. It can also take a lot of time plus money. You may need more than 10 sessions at two-week intervals. Determine your skin's sensitivity with derma tests.

Where to find:

Microdermabrasion can be performed in a surgeon's clinic, the spa or even your own home. You can now purchase home microdermabrasion kits.

What is a chemical peel?

Chemical peel is another facial acne scar treatment that uses chemicals to strip away top layers of the skin. Common chemicals used are Trichloracetic acid and Alpha Hydroxy Acids. You will be anesthetized, sterilized or cleansed before surgery. Acids or chemicals are applied layer by layer until the desired results are acquired. Cooling agents such as a fan are sometimes used to ease discomfort (in cases when anesthetics are not used).

Benefits:

The benefits of chemical peels are the extensive removal of scars and softer, radiant skin.

Risks:

With this type of facial acne scar treatment, you have the risk of getting oral herpes. Constant burning and stinging sensations can also stay a longer period of time than expected. Recovery can take several weeks to months. You must be diagnosed properly before having this treatment.

What is a laser peel?

With this facial acne scar treatment, carbon dioxide is used to gradually remove top layers of the skin.

How it works:

This facial acne scar treatment works by using carbon dioxide to eliminate rough skin surfaces as well as dark pigmentation caused by acne scars.

Benefits:

The benefits of laser peel are that it is accurate in eliminating scars and less bruising and bleeding occurs during surgery.

Downsides:

Laser peel surgery is not for everyone. Skin may become unnaturally lighter or darker depending on your skin tone, and burns can occur from the heat of the laser. Choose a surgeon who is highly experienced in this technique.

Resurfacing treatments are generally an effective facial acne scar treatment, but tend to be harsher than topical or natural remedies. The most important thing to do beforehand is by going through skin tests and discussing your options with a medical professional.