What do you mean by acne scarring?

Acne scarring is a term that conjures uneven skin surface which is seen or is a result of the damage caused to the skin by the prolonged acne.

These acne scars can be raised or depressed in the appearance.

The raised scars are called hypertrophic scar and the depressed one being called as atrophic scars.

Now, you must be wondering what causes acne scarring?

Acne scarring can be a result of prolonged acne where its condition is more of a deep-seated, inflammatory as well as a prolonged one. In such scenarios, it can destroy its immediate skin tissues. Furthermore, due to this damage, it can lead to scarring.

Now, another question that lingers in our mind is that,

What is the difference between acne scars and pigmentation?

Pigmentation is the black or brown spots which will be more of a depressed in the appearance.

On the other hand, the acne scars are identified to be more elevated or raised.

What are the treatment options available to treat acne scars?

In contrary to the popular notion, the creams and tablets don't work on the acne scars. They will only work on the discoloration, but to eradicate it completely from the epidermal layer of the skin, it is suggested to opt for procedural treatments.

The procedural treatments are further categorized according to the type of the scars-

• Treatment for raised scars-

1. Injections where the solution so used in it, are the medicines. These are furthermore repeated in three weekly sessions.
2. Lasers

• Treatment for depressed scars-

1. Dermaroller
2. Micro needling Radiofrequency
3. Lasers (CO2 ablative fractional laser)

What is the difference between these three procedures?

1. Dermaroller- It is designed in a way where a plethora of needles is embedded on a drum roller. It is then used on the affected skin area.

2. Microneedling Radiofrequency- The working principle is such that through the needles, Radiofrequency waves are passed

3. CO2 Ablative Fractional Laser- It is a type of a laser where the CO2 beams are passed in the affected or concerned region.

The principle behind these procedures-

1. When these procedures are employed, then a momentarily controlled damaged is done in the deeper layers of the concerned area.

Now, you might be wondering why that is important. Well, such an act will create a stimulation, where the collagen is induced in that area, thus, leading to the healing. The multiple sessions will help to refill these scars.

Few things to note-

• The multiple sessions will be performed within 4 to 6 weekly intervals. Moreover, for visible results, a minimum of 4 sessions is mandatory.
• Which treatment will be beneficial for your skin will depend on the situation, downtime as well as the depth of the scars.
• After the dermaroller as well as Microneedling Radiofrequency procedure you will feel or witness a mild redness which further stays for 1 to 2 days.
• In the CO2 ablative fractional laser, you will experience a rusting on the skin for 3 to 4 days. According to these, the treatment options are categorized.

Preparations-
Pre- Treatment-

Before undergoing any of these procedures, a numbing cream is applied to the affected area. Therefore, one procedure may account for or may take 1 to 1.5 hours.

Post-treatment-

You will be provided with an anti-inflammatory cream which is advised to be applied for 2 to 3 days. And, even a broad spectrum sunscreen is also suggested.

The only side effect a person will experience is the redness as well as the mild swelling.

How to prevent acne scars?

1. Do not take acne scarring lightly, consult a dermatologist.

2. No matter how tempting it is, do not touch or fiddle the pimples. This is because it may aggravate the damage further and thus, may result in an acne scarring.

For more information about the acne or acne scarring, you can visit our website or clinic.