To improve the appearance of scarred regions, a doctor or dermatologist may recommend chemical peel or microdermabrasion. These gentler procedures can be performed in the office. Several methods of treatment can help with severe acne scars from past attacks. Acne scar treatment are available in different forms. A few are mentioned below.
How to prevent acne scars – Treatment methods
Over-the-counter (OTC) scar treatment cream
OTC therapies, which range from conventional lotions to silicone-filled bandages, work by moisturizing your skin and reducing the look of scars. They can also aid in the relief of itching and discomfort.
Scar treatments that do not require a prescription are easily accessible over-the-counter. These, on the other hand, can take months to work and must be used consistently for optimal results. Continuous use might sometimes raise the risk of adverse effects like redness and irritation.
Massage of the face
Scars are not removed by a face massage. However, it can be used in conjunction with other scar treatments. Facial massage is claimed to relieve inflammation and enhance skin circulation while also eliminating pollutants. As a result, you may notice a difference in the texture and tone of your skin.
Facial massages have no negative side effects, although their effectiveness in preventing pockmarks hasn’t been thoroughly researched. A weekly or monthly massage, on the other hand, may help to alleviate tension and inflammation.
Peels with chemicals
Chemical peels are used to treat a number of cosmetic issues, such as wrinkles and scars. They assist new cells in regenerate by eliminating the top layer of skin (epidermis).
Chemical peels have the capacity to reduce the look of pockmarks rather than truly eradicating them. Only flattened surface scars respond well to these peels.
Chemical peels can include the following ingredients:
- Glycolic acid
- Trichloroacetic acid pyruvic acid salicylic acid (TCA)
This acne scar treatment only removes the top layer of skin, so you’ll need to get them on a frequent basis to see the best effects.
Microdermabrasion
Another sort of resurfacing treatment that eliminates the epidermis is microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion removes skin cells using abrasive chemicals rather than acids like those used in chemical peels.
It’s performed in a doctor’s office and may necessitate general anesthesia. To get smoother, toned-looking skin, your dermatologist applies a sanding machine against your skin to remove the epidermis and areas of your dermis.
Dermabrasion
Another method of skin resurfacing procedure is dermabrasion. Dermabrasion, unlike its sister procedure microdermabrasion, removes both the epidermis and the intermediate layer of skin (dermis).
It’s performed in a doctor’s office and may necessitate general anesthesia. To reveal smoother, toned-looking skin, your dermatologist applies a sanding machine against your skin to remove the epidermis and areas of your dermis.
Microneedling
Microneedling is also referred to as “collagen-induction therapy” or “needling.” This is a long-term treatment that includes puncturing your skin with needles.
The theory is that as the pockmark wounds heal, your skin will naturally manufacture more collagen to fill them up and make them less noticeable. Bruising, swelling, and infection are all possible side effects.
Follow-up treatments every two to six weeks are recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) for best outcomes. Within nine months, you should start seeing considerable effects.
Fillers
In the area of concern, skin fillers such as collagen or fat-based compounds are injected. Skin fillers plump up your skin to improve the appearance of scars rather than fully eliminating them.
According to the AAD, depending on the filler used, results might last anywhere from six months to indefinitely. Skin irritation, infection, and allergic responses are all dangers associated with fillers.
Resurfacing with an ablative laser
Ablative laser resurfacing removes tiny layers of your skin to treat pockmarks. This is the most intrusive type of laser resurfacing, and you should expect to be out of commission for one to two weeks.
The effects, on the other hand, tend to continue for years without the need for additional treatment. Your skincare doctor may recommend focused acne scar therapy for pockmarks caused by acne scars (FAST).
Skincare at home
Sunscreen can assist to reduce the difference between damaged and unscarred skin. Medicated creams containing azelaic acid or hydroxy acids, for example, may also be beneficial.
