Non-Surgical Treatment of Acne Scarring

The unfortunate reality of acne is that it can leave behind scars. In a society where so much is based on how we look, it's no wonder there are so many different ways to treat acne scarring.

When we get an outbreak of pimples our first impulse is to pop them and then wash them away. This is a normal reaction that could lead to both short and long term problems related to scarring.

Improperly treating acne can result in medium to large brown stains called hyper-pigmentation or even the loss of epidermal substructure, scarring. Acne scarring and hyper-pigmentation can result from large or small pimples and is not always related to severe forms of acne. The pigmentation stain will most likely improve with time but there are also treatments to assist in this process. Alpha-hydroxy, topical retinoids and exfoliating facial scrubs will all speed us the healing process of acne staining.

The most effective method to prevent scarring is a pro-active daily cleaning regimen combined with regular visits to your family doctor or dermatologist. Get help in the early stages of an acne outbreak and you will minimize the possibility of scarring.

Acne scarring can be divided into four separate categories; Ice Pick Scars, Boxed Scars, Rolling Scars and Hypertrophic Scars.

Ice pick scars are deep pits in the skin that form a 'V' shape indentation.

Boxed scars are usually found on the cheeks and the temple and are deep or superficial. Boxed scars are most commonly compared to a chicken pox scar and created a 'box-like' crevice in the skin.

Rolling scars leave pits in the epidermis that are shaped like a half-moon and appear to give the skin a wavy appearance.

There are essentially two methods of treating acne scars, non-surgical and surgical. Non-surgical treatments for acne scarring include: cover-up, collagenosis, injectables, topical creams and chemical peels.

Cover up is primarily used for patients with scarring, acne staining and active acne breakouts. If your choice is to camouflage your scarring, be sure to consult an expert who will be able to match the appropriate products with your skin type and tone. As well it is advised to use only non-acnegenic and non-comedogenic cover-ups to reduce the irritation to the skin.

Non-ablative collagenosis uses laser and radio frequencies to enhance the natural formation of collagen. It is targeted for the deeper layers of the skin to prevent damage to the surface. This can be a useful alternative for the treatment of acne scarring.

Injectables, or skin fillers are safe materials that are injected into an acne scar. The injectable fills the depressed area and creates a flat level skin surface. This method is most often used to treat rolling or thumbprint scars.

Topical creams can reduce acne staining and reduce the chance of additional outbreaks. Topical creams can also help eliminate small scars. By gently exfoliating the skin, topical creams promote collagen production.

Chemical peels work in much the same way as a topical cream. A chemical peel lifts one layer of skin at a time. More than likely the patient will require multiple treatments and unfortunately chemical peels have almost no effect on acne scars.

There is no perfection solution for the treatment of acne. Individually what is successful for one person may not be successful for another. Talk to your dermatologist or family doctor to devise the best acne treatment plan for you.