Acne Scar Removal Treatment Options

Scars are the result of an injury to the skin. The most common types of scars to have on the face are those that result from acne. Studies have shown that visible acne scars can become a considerable cause of stress, anxiety and embarrassment among men and women. If you have acne scars, it is recommended that you increase your knowledge on acne scarring and the various types of acne scar treatments that are available. This information will answer some typical questions about acne scars and the treatments available to you in acne scar removal.



Treatment Options



The most appropriate scar removal treatment is often determined by the size and shape of the acne scars. Some procedures are more abrasive or more surgically involved while others work on the surface of the skin. Methods include lasers, dermabrasion, microdermabrasion and chemical peels, however there are also scar creams available which tend to be optimal due to their at home use, cost, and effectiveness. Let's take a closer look at these treatment options.



Laser Therapy



Laser therapy removes scar tissue by burning off the top layers of skin and helping to tighten underlying layers. Although this treatment tends to yield good results, it can prove to be costly as multiple sessions are usually required. Laser surgery is also known to be considerably painful as it is characteristically more invasive in comparison to other treatment options. Risks include seeping, crusting, and discoloration, not to mention long recovery periods.



Dermabrasion



Dermabrasion 'sands' down the top layers of skin using a type of wire brush that spins at high speeds. The procedure removes the top layers of skin along with their scar tissue and imperfections in order to reveal a smoother and newer layer below. Usually a freezing agent is used as anesthetic during dermabrasion. This treatment is more appropriate for deeper types of acne scars. Dermabrasion is usually followed by a fairly painful recovery period. Discoloration is also normal after a procedure. It will eventually fade, however it is advised to avoid direct sunlight for at least 6 months.



Microdermabrasion



Microdermabrasion is a less invasive form of skin resurfacing. This procedure is done with small sterile particles that are then removed along with the dead skin with a suction device. Microdermabrasion is a superficial procedure meaning no anesthetic or long recovery periods. Yet because it is a superficial type treatment, it is only ideal for surface scars and will not remove deeper dermal scarring.



Chemical Peels



Chemical peels involve strong combinations of chemicals that dissolve away the top layers of skin. The result is the presence of the smoother underlying layer of skin. To remove acne scars, it is necessary to go with a deeper chemical peel. These leave you with more prominent results but also tend to be more painful and require longer recovery periods. These deeper peels may require anesthetic or pain medications. After effects of chemical peels include swelling, crusting, and discoloration that could last for several months.



Skin Care Products



Topical scar removal creams are sold in both natural and medicated forms and provide a great alternative to more costly and painful procedures. Natural acne treatment creams are a smart idea as they aim to fix the cause of the problem rather than just deal with the visible effects of scarring. Topical at home treatments require a little more patience, but can provide the same results over time and can reduce even the most severe scarring of any type, shape, or size. These natural acne creams are great in removing damage done by years of acne. They can soften skin, treat and eliminate existing scar tissue as well as work to prevent future acne blemishes and scarring.