Having acne is a very common problem, but there are many ways to treat it. Aside from taking medications to prevent it, there are also treatments that can be done to help clear up the skin. These treatments include surgery, chemical peels, and laser resurfacing.
Micro-needling
Using micro-needling for acne scar treatment is a safe, non-invasive skin resurfacing procedure. It promotes collagen reproduction to remove acne scars and improves overall firmness of the skin.
This is a type of treatment that uses a pen-like device with over 30 small needles to prick the top layers of the skin. This causes minor injuries that trigger the body's natural healing response. The resulting deposition of collagen helps to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, reducing the appearance of scars.
The results of this treatment will vary from patient to patient. Some patients will notice a slight improvement in the appearance of their skin after a few treatments. Others will need to undergo several treatments to see the desired effect. The cost of micro-needling will depend on the provider, the number of sessions required, and the location of the treatment.
The micro-needling treatment for acne scars works by creating controlled wounds that stimulate the skin to produce new collagen. This helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and to smooth out acne scars.
The process is relatively painless and does not require any downtime. It is recommended to avoid sun exposure for a short period before and after the procedure. A topical anesthetic cream may be applied to the treatment area to numb the skin.
The procedure typically takes around 20 minutes. After the procedure, a soothing serum is applied to the affected area to calm the skin. Some people may experience a bit of tenderness or redness.
Aside from treating acne scars, micro-needling can also help to improve the appearance of other skin issues. It can be used on any part of the body, including the face, and can be performed in any Fitzpatrick skin tone.
Fractional photothermolysis
Various fractional devices are currently being introduced into the market with varying claims of efficacy. However, controlled data about the safety and efficacy of these machines may not always be available. Therefore, judicious case selection is a must.
Fractional photothermolysis is a technique that induces non-contiguous microscopic thermal injury. The resulting microthermal zones (MTZ) destroy tissue, leading to the destruction of melanin granules. The elimination of these granules results in an improved epidermal pigmentation.
Treatment of acne scars with fractional photothermolysis is a safe and effective treatment option. It can be used on all skin types. The procedure is generally performed with local anesthetic cream. It can also be performed with a forced cold air device to minimize patient discomfort.
Fractional photothermolysis has been effective for treating a number of skin conditions in India. It is a new and exciting technology. It has been used to treat a variety of dermatological problems, including dyspigmentation, ageing changes in the skin, and facial atrophic acne scars.
Non-ablative fractional photothermolysis achieved satisfactory clinical improvement in patients with moderate to severe atrophic acne scars. Although the majority of patients showed a 50% to 75% improvement, one patient had a response of less than 25%. This resulted in the need for multiple treatments to obtain a satisfactory result.
Ablative fractional Er:YAG laser with coagulation mode is recommended for patients with moderate to severe atrophic post-acne scars. This modality is associated with acceptable downtime. The degree of side effects may be higher with ablative FP.
A group of independent physicians evaluated the safety and efficacy of a 2940 nm fractional photothermolysis laser for acne scars. The laser was applied on 26 patients with moderate to severe atrophic scarring. A standard digital photograph was taken before each treatment and at three months after the final treatment.
Laser resurfacing
Using lasers to remove acne scars is a great way to improve the overall quality of your skin. Several dermatologists specialize in this type of treatment. There are a number of different types of lasers used. Some are better suited for treating certain types of scars.
The Fraxel(r) laser is a popular example of a non-ablative fractional laser. It uses microscopic columns of laser energy to stimulate collagen production in deeper tissues. This increases the pliability of scar tissue and minimizes the appearance of irregular pigment.
Some types of lasers also use pulsed dye technology to reduce redness and smooth out hypertrophic scars. These treatments are less invasive than other forms of laser resurfacing.
Depending on the size of the area to be treated, the treatment may be a single session or several. Patients can usually resume normal activities after the procedure. However, some downtime is expected.
After the treatment, patients should avoid exercise and prolonged sun exposure. These can delay the healing process. A doctor may recommend applying moisturizing lotion to the treated area.
A patient should also notify their physician about any herpes simplex virus infections. If the virus is present, it is dormant but can reactivate after laser skin resurfacing. Antiviral medications can prevent this.
The process of laser resurfacing may require the use of topical retinoids to prepare the skin. This will help to make the resurfacing more effective. The ointment will also aid in the healing process.
Depending on the type of laser used, the healing time can range from a few minutes to an hour and a half. For best results, a series of laser treatments is typically necessary.
A laser resurfacing treatment can reduce the appearance of acne scars, as well as decrease pain and itchiness. Although some side effects are common, most patients report a noticeable improvement in the overall appearance of their skin.
Chemical peels
Getting a chemical peel is one way to treat acne scars. The idea behind it is to remove the top layer of skin, which allows new, healthy skin to show up.
There are many different types of peels to choose from. Each type is designed to help a different part of your face. You should research all of the different options to find the right one for you.
Some of the most common chemical peels for acne are lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and trichloroacetic acid. These can be used in the home or by a dermatologist. You may also want to talk with a board certified plastic surgeon.
You should also research the possible side effects of chemical peels. These can include blisters, redness, irritation, and scaling. You should also avoid using retin-A or other acne clearing products for a couple of days before and after the peel.
If you are going to get a chemical peel, you should always follow the instructions that come with the product. This includes cleaning the area before and after the treatment.
You should also remember to avoid sun exposure for several months after you get the peel. The chemicals in the peel will make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so you should not go out in the sun for at least a few weeks.
You should also talk to a doctor before you get a chemical peel. You may want to consider adding an additional therapy such as dermabrasion or a laser. This can be an effective way to help heal and fade your acne scars.
The best way to determine which type of chemical peel will work for you is to meet with a dermatologist. This will give you the opportunity to ask questions and get a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Surgery
Depending on the severity of the scars, a number of different surgical treatments have been used to remove acne scars. Some of these methods include microneedling, subcision, punch grafting, and laser resurfacing.
Laser resurfacing, in particular, relies on the wound healing response of the body to stimulate collagen production. It also encourages the growth of new skin cells. This procedure is usually performed after other methods of acne scar treatment.
Chemical peels are another option. They can be applied in two or three sessions to maintain the results. They are safe for all skin colors. They remove the top layer of the old skin, allowing the new skin to grow in smoother.
Dermabrasion is another method for treating acne scars. This method uses a special tool to remove the upper and mid layers of the skin. This allows for new collagen to form and smoothen out the scar.
The dermatologist makes an incision and inserts a fine gauge needle underneath the scar. The needle is then rolled back and forth across the scar. The skin is then numbened to prevent pain.
Patients should avoid smoking for at least two weeks before and after the procedure. They should also avoid taking blood-clotting supplements for at least two weeks. The doctor may also use anesthetic to make the patient numb.
Other acne scar treatments include subcision and injections. These methods are often combined to achieve optimal results. A dermatologist will determine which treatment is best suited for the patient.
Some people may be at greater risk for developing certain types of scars. For instance, those with darker skin may be more likely to develop keloid or hypertrophic scars.

.jpg)