Active acne breakouts are annoying, but the scars they leave behind are even more distressing. These scars can stay on the skin for months or even years. On a positive note, acne scars are manageable. Some natural remedies and medical procedures recommended by dermatologists can help fade acne scars. But no single acne scar treatment has done wonders on the skin of every sufferer. Each type of acne scar responds differently to the treatment. Usually, many dermatologists recommend a combination approach for acne scar treatment in Bangalore for optimal results.
All About Acne Scars
Acne scars are persistent skin concerns that develop when a breakout damages the skin deeply and leads to improper healing of the affected skin. Natural skin healing or repair involves restoring the skin's collagen level. After an acne breakout, as the skin heals, there are cases when collagen is produced in either excess or low amounts, thus creating scars. Raised scars result from excess collagen, while indented scars are a consequence of collagen insufficiency.
Types of Acne Scars
Indented or atrophic acne scars mainly affect the facial skin. They are of the following types:
- Boxcar - It’s a shallow or deep, wide, U-shaped scar with sharp edges.
- Ice pick- It’s a narrow, V-shaped scar, apparent as a small, round, or oval hole.
- Rolling- It’s a wide depression with a rounded edge and an irregular appearance.
- Raised acne scars- They are typically associated with acne on the chest or back. They can be hypertrophic scars that develop within the boundaries of the affected skin or keloid scars that grow beyond.
Expert-Recommended Solutions for Acne Scars
Before undergoing any of the treatments mentioned below, ensure that any existing acne is cleared from the skin to prevent new acne scars.
- Laser skin resurfacing - Ablative lasers, such as CO2 and Erbium YAG, can remove scarred tissues while promoting new cell production and deep collagen growth.
Non-ablative lasers, such as Pulsed Dye and Nd:YAG, boost collagen and reduce skin discoloration without peeling the skin. Fractional lasers help create micro-injuries in the skin to induce natural skin healing and collagen growth. Any of these lasers can effectively treat all types of indented acne scars. - Chemical peel - This is a widespread treatment for acne scars in Bangalore. This approach involves the use of mild to deep-strength acid solutions on the scarred skin. The acid works to cause controlled skin exfoliation and encourage the growth of new skin cells. For mild scarring or discoloration, a superficial peel is generally considered, whereas for moderate and deep scarring, medium and deep peels are considered, respectively.
- Microneedling- This collagen induction therapy utilizes sterile, fine needles to cause controlled microinjuries in the skin. The micro-injuries stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin, thereby effectively reducing the appearance of boxcars and rolling scars.
- Dermal fillers- Soft tissue fillers, like hyaluronic acid or collagen-based fillers, can temporarily fill in the rolling scars and some boxcar scars.
- Subcision- It is a minor surgical procedure to smooth out rolling scars and deep boxcar scars. The procedure involves the use of a needle that helps break the fibrous bands, anchoring the acne scar.
- Monothreads/PDO threads- These are inserted into the skin using a thin needle or cannula to cut out any retracting/old acne scars. They stimulate collagen remodeling and are best suited for both surface-level and deeper scars.
- Corticosteroid injections - These are suitable for softening or flattening hypertrophic or keloid acne scars. They work to reduce skin inflammation and rupture excessive collagen deposits.
- Vitamin C and retin-oids- Vitamin C serums can help lighten the discoloration associated with acne scars and improve skin texture. Retin-oids can be used to accelerate skin cell turnover, helping to enhance textured scars and pigmentation.
Strategies to Manage or Prevent Acne Scars
A wide range of professional treatments can help treat acne scars. However, the best approach is to prevent scars from forming. Here are some recommended advice by acne doctor in Bangalore on how to minimize the risk of having acne scars and manage them:
- Refrain from picking or popping pimples. Such actions can cause the acne-causing bacteria to reach deeper layers of the skin, leading to scarring
- Receive early acne treatment. Early intervention can help prevent the long-term damage to the skin caused by acne breakouts
- Strictly Take Sun-protection. Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and sun-protective clothing when outdoors during the daytime. If possible, seek shade
- Consistently follow a Skincare Routine - use oil-free moisturizers, gentle cleansers, and non-comedogenic products to keep your skin clear and healthy.
What’s the Best Treatment?
The best way to manage acne scars is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Consistent skincare, combined with the most suitable acne scar treatment, yields remarkable improvements in skin appearance.
A dermatologist can only help determine the most appropriate and effective treatment approach after assessing the skin condition, the type and extent of acne scars, the skin type, age, and other relevant factors. With patience and persistence, anyone can achieve a smoother, clearer, healthier complexion.
To get started, take the first step and schedule a consultation with top-tier dermatologist Dr. Rasya Dixit at Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic.
FAQs on Acne Scar Treatment
Do pimples all leave scars?
Not all of them do. Only deep or picked pimples usually do.
Can acne scars naturally fade away?
Some fade over time, while deep scars may remain.
How can one naturally get rid of acne scars?
Natural remedies can help lessen the appearance of scars but cannot completely remove them.
Do pimples cause scars if I pick them?
Yes, picking worsens inflammation, and this can lead to deeper acne scarring.
How long do acne scars stay?
Mild scars can fade within a few months, whereas deep scars can last a lifetime.
Which treatment is best to remove acne scars?
Microneedling, laser treatments, and chemical peels will make the scars more visible.
Is laser treatment suitable for acne scars?
Yes. A laser resurfacing treatment is an effective option for reducing the visibility of scars.
Does microneedling work for acne scars?
Microneedling helps stimulate collagen formation to improve texture and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
Are acne scars and dark spots the same?
No, scars are textural, whereas dark spots are pigmentation without skin depressions.
How can one prevent getting acne scars?
Do not pick; treat your acne early, and apply daily sun protection.
Does sunscreen help with acne scars?
Yes. Sunscreen helps prevent darkening and accelerates the fading of scars.
Which cream is better for acne scars?
Look for ingredients such as reti-nol, niacinamide, or vitamin C.
If you are looking for an effective acne scar treatment in Bangalore, get in touch with Dr. Rasya Dixit. She is the Best Skin Doctor In Bangalore who suggests customized acne scar treatments. Visit her to get scar-free, beautiful skin
