Top Acne Scarring Treatments
Some of the most common acne scarring treatments are, dermabrasion, chemical peel, laser resurfacing, augmentation, subcision, and punch techniques. Each of these treatments can be used for different types of acne scars. Seeing your dermatologist can help you determine which treatment, procedure or possibly a combination is best for your type of scars.
Dermabrasion
In the mid 90's, dermabrasion gave way for dermatologists to welcome the new technology of one of the oldest laser resurfacing methods.
Removing layers of skin with an abrasive, rapidly rotating wheel, takes a skilled hand to achieve the best results. Used unskillfully, it can create an unnatural contoured skin surface that has an uneven appearance.
Laser Resurfacing
A common method for acne scarring is laser resurfacing. It uses a laser beam to pass through a chamber filled with carbon dioxide gas, or with Erbium, the crystal through which the beam passes. Experts regard this treatment with the carbon dioxide laser as a high standard to resurface the skin.
Chemical Peels
These peels are helpful for unclogging pores, improving brown spots and clearing acne. They're effective because of the higher concentrations of salicylic acid, usually, 20-30 percent, compared to the 0.5-2 percent found in products used by consumers.
Punch Techniques
Another common means of removal is called punch excision, typically used for ice pick scars. The scar is punched out of the skin with a biopsy punch instrument that looks a little like an apple corer. This leaves a tiny cylindrical hole. Depending on its size and location, the cavity is then either closed with a small suture, or filled in with what is known as a punch graft, a plug of skin taken from behind the patient's ear.
Subcision
This common method is usually for large, non-distensible scars. Subcision is performed by inserting a needle under the scar and with a back and forth movement, cuts the fibrous strands of collagen holding it down. For some scars, this method can be quite useful. However, there can be a substantial amount of bruising, and can take time to heal.
In your search for an acne scar treatment that's right for you, know that there are other options available. Perhaps you're looking for a quicker, less invasive method, without paying for costly procedures, or expensive visits to the salon or doctor's office.
Learn more about removing acne scars. Stop by Kim Hartley's site where you can find out all about acne scar products and what it can do for you.