Dr Hanish Babu, MD (Skin & Sexually Transmitted Diseases)
Dermatologist, Cosmetologist and Venereologist,
Cosmolaser Medical Centre, Sharjah
Acne scar treatment depends upon the depth, extent and the type of the pimple scars.
Most affected teens approach their dermatologist or physician for treatment of acne scars while they are still suffering from fresh eruptions of acne bumps. It is useful to remember that one should put out the fire and then, only then, set out repairing the damaged house!
Acne Scar Treatment Principles
Treatment of acne scars is not a simple exercise that yields immediate results. A practical and realistic approach is required to obtain satisfactory results. Whatever treatment modality is tried, it is practically impossible to get back the pre-acne smoothness, softness and freshness of the facial skin.
The first step in deciding about the most appropriate acne scar treatment is to analyze why the acne scar is there in the first place. Was the acne treated properly? Are there still acne bumps on the face? Is there any hormonal imbalance (irregular periods and hair growth in females)? If you are a female-have you ruled out polycystic ovarian disease? Do you have unhealthy life style and food habits? Stress? Pinpointing the cause of the acne scars will help prevent further occurrence of the devastating scars.
Next, assess the types of acne scars present. Are they superficial and shallow? Or deep and pitted? (Here is a tip to know whether the acne scar is superficial or not- stretch the scar between thumb and forefinger: the superficial scar will disappear). Atrophic or hypertrophic? How long have they been present? Do you have any keloidal tendency? Anyone else in the family has scarring tendency following acne? Are you diabetic or suffer from any immune compromising diseases?
Learn about the different treatment options available for your type of acne scar. Is it worth it? Most insurance companies do not cover acne and acne scar treatments. Could you afford the cost of treatment procedures for acne scars? Do you have access to an experienced dermato-cosmetologist or plastic surgeon?
Finally, remember that prevention is better than cure in acne scars! The best treatment available for acne scars is to avoid getting it. Getting access to timely, proper and persistent treatment for acne eruptions is an important factor in preventing the occurrence of acne scars in majority of acne sufferers.
Acne Scar Treatment Options
Acne scar treatment options may broadly be divided into medical and surgical therapeutic interventions.
Medical or Conservative Treatment for Acne Scars.
These are more effective for shallow and superficial acne scars and acne blemishes and involve use of creams, gels and solutions.
Surgical or Cosmetological Acne Scar Treatments.
For medium or deep scars, there are a number of surgical or cosmetological options available. A plastic surgeon or a dermatologist who has professional training and experience in treating acne scars are the doctors whom you should approach for these procedures:
- Chemical peels for acne scars
- Dermabrasion for acne scarring
- Exoderm lift
- Needle subcision of individual acne scars
- Acne scar revision
- Laser resurfacing of scars
- Cryoslush
- Soft-tissue augmentation
- Intralesional steroid injection
- Excisional surgery in selected cases
There are many effective techniques to get rid of acne scars. The choice of treatment modality depends upon the age and sex of the sufferer, type of the acne, extent and depth of the scars, affordability and cost effectiveness of the procedures, and, finally, the expertise and facilities available at the treatment center.
The whole spectrum of treatments are available at our Cosmolaser Medical Centre in Samnan, Sharjah. Please call 06 5678 200 for appointments or Visit the page to set up an appointment.
Read More about the Treatments available for Acne Scars:
- Acne Scars: Medical or Non Surgical Treatment
- Acne Scar Removal: Surgical and Cosmetic Treatment
- Laser Treatment for Acne Scars
Related Reading on Acne Scars
- Acne Scar Causes
- Types of Acne Scars
- Acne Scars: Why Prevention is Better Than Cure!
- How to Get Rid of Acne Blemishes
- Acne Scars: FAQ
- All About Different Types of Acne and their Treatment
Disclaimer
The information given in this article is for educational purpose only so that patients are aware of the options available for diagnosis and treatment of common skin, hair and nail diseases. No diagnosis should be made or treatment undertaken without first consulting your dermatologist. If you do so, the author will not be responsible for any consequences. The images provided are for illustration purpose only and should not be reproduced without the consent of the author.
