No matter what type of acne scars you have – boxcar, ice pick, rolling, or hypertrophic scars, there are treatments for removing acne scars. Acne affects everyone at some point in their lives. Whether you get rid of your pimples with over the counter or prescription medication, the scars that are left behind can look just as bad as the acne, if not worse.
Punch Excision or Elevation
Removing acne scars with punch involves using a small surgical tool. The wound that remains is then either sutured together, or skin grafts maybe used instead of sutures. With the punch elevation treatment, the base of the scar is elevated, which gives the scar a more leveled and fine appearance, and significantly diminishes the appearance of the acne scar. Both of these methods are typically used for Ice Pick scars and deep Boxcar scars.
Dermabrasion
Removing acne scars with dermabrasion involves first either freezing the scars with a Freon spray, or using local anesthetic to numb the area. Then an instrument that looks like a small sander is used to “sand” the affected area and remove the acne scars. This treatment option can lead to side effects such as red and swollen skin, tingling, burning or aching. This method is used to treat boxcar scars and rolling scars.
Subcision
This technique for removing acne scars separates the fibrous bands supporting the scars. In order to do this, a sharp needle is inserted upward 1-2 cm from the scar. The scars are then separated from the dermis with a repetitive to and fro movement. This motion raises the scar upward, which makes removing the acne scar easier. This technique is usually used along with other scar treatments to remove all types of acne scars.
Laser Resurfacing
Removing acne scars with laser resurfacing involves using a non-ablative laser to burn the scarred skin.
This type of laser doesn’t remove the top layer of skin, and it’s non-destructive. The skin is burned one layer at a time, leaving behind a fresh new layer of skin. Laser resurfacing is used for removing all types of acne scars. This method is very effective, but can have some side effects. There may be some redness after the procedure – this redness can last as long as a week, depending on how sensitive your skin is. There may also be some pain afterwards – this is easily treated with painkillers. Skin discoloration is also possible after this treatment; however it usually goes away in a few days. Burns or peelings are also possible, depending on how skilled the doctor is. In addition, exposure to sunlight after a laser resurfacing treatment can cause other side effects, so you may want to limit exposure to the sun as much as possible after a laser resurfacing treatment.
Fractional Laser Treatment
Removing acne scars with fractional laser treatment involves using a laser with a wavelength that is highly absorbed by water. This type of laser creates vertical holes in the tissue instead of just coagulating the tissue. New scar-free skin then grows in its place. Fractional laser treatment has a lower risk of side effects than regular laser resurfacing.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are helpful for removing certain types of acne scars. Removing acne scars with chemical peels involves applying a chemical solution to the skin. This solution is left on for a certain length of time. During this time, peel dissolves tissue cells which encourages the growth of new tissue and improves the look and texture of the skin.
There are three different types of chemical peels that can be used depending on the amount of scarring. Superficial peels are applied anywhere on the body and are used for very mild cases. This treatment can be done on an outpatient basis and has a quick recovery time. Medium peels are used to treat moderate acne scars. This treatment can also be done on an outpatient basis; however it can take up to 7 days for the skin to heal, and a little longer for the redness to go away. Deep peels are only used in cases of severe acne scars, and it’s not recommended if you have darker skin, because it can actually bleach the skin. It can take up to 14 days to heal, and redness can take up to eight weeks to go away. Deep peels also require taking time off work to recover.