Acne Scar Treatment

Acne scars result from acne and blemishes that damage the skin. Scarring can be expected depending on the type of acne and how often you pick at pimples. Luckily, there are ways to reduce the appearance of acne scars, some of which even target active breakouts. At Schweiger Dermatology Group, our acne specialists are ready to help you get rid of red and dark scars for good.

Types of Acne Scars

Acne scars aren’t all the same. In fact, there are three general categories of scars, including atrophic, hypertrophic, and keloid. In some cases, you can also develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH, which creates a dark mark on the skin. These and other kinds of scarring can make you uncomfortable with your appearance, but they are treatable with the right approach.

Ice Pick Scars

Ice pick scars appear as small, sharp indentations, often described as looking like the skin has been punctured with an ice pick. Due to their depth, they are often considered the most difficult type of acne scar to treat despite being the most common atrophic acne scars.

Boxcar Scars

These scars are wider than ice pick scars, typically 1.5 to 4.0mm in diameter. They have a round or oval shape with sharp, defined edges, giving them a pitted appearance. Boxcar scars can be further classified as shallow (0.1-0.5mm deep) or deep (≥0.5mm deep). Shallow boxcar scars are generally more responsive to skin resurfacing treatments, while deep boxcar scars are more resistant.

Hypertrophic Scars

Hypertrophic scars are raised and thickened scars that occur when collagen is overproduced during the healing process. Unlike atrophic scars, hypertrophic scars represent a net gain of collagen. These scars remain within the boundaries of the original acne lesion and are more common along the jawline, chest, and upper back.

Rolling Scars

Rolling scars are recognized by their wavy appearance, creating a rolling effect on the skin’s surface. These scars are typically wider than others, sometimes reaching up to 5mm in diameter. Rolling scars are caused by fibrous bands that form between the epidermis and deeper layers of the skin, pulling the surface down in an uneven pattern.

Keloid Scars

Keloid scars are a more severe form of raised scarring that extends beyond the original acne lesion. Like hypertrophic scars, keloids are caused by an overproduction of collagen. However, keloids continue to grow. They are often darker in color than the surrounding skin and can be itchy or painful. Keloid scars are particularly challenging to treat and have a high risk of returning even after successful treatment.

What Causes Acne Scars?

Acne scars are lasting reminders of the skin’s complex healing process following severe acne. These scars develop when the body’s natural repair mechanisms are overwhelmed by intense inflammation and tissue damage. The primary culprit is often deep, cystic acne that penetrates the skin’s lower layers, destroying collagen and elastin fibers. As the body rushes to repair this damage, it may produce too little or too much collagen, resulting in different types of scars.

Factors such as genetics play a role in acne scarring, influencing how the skin responds to inflammation and heals. Delayed or improper treatment of acne can also exacerbate scarring. Additionally, picking or squeezing acne lesions can lead to scarring due to trauma and bacteria entering the affected area. Environmental factors like sun exposure can worsen the appearance of scars by causing hyperpigmentation.

Will Acne Scars Fade Away?

While reddish or brownish acne marks may fade eventually, true acne scars, especially deep or severe ones, are typically permanent unless treated appropriately. Mild to moderate scarring might slowly fade over time, but the process can be slow and unpredictable. Without targeted treatments, smooth skin becomes harder to achieve as scars may become more noticeable with age.

Dermatological Treatments for Acne Scars

Acne scar specialists offer an array of treatments that help improve skin texture and tone. Cosmetic procedures are the primary way to clear hyperpigmented skin, with the most effective treatment depending on the severity of the acne scarring.

Laser Treatment for Acne Scars

Laser treatments, like fractional CO2, F.A.S.T, and KTP, can be excellent for acne scars. Depending on the laser and how deep it heats the skin, laser treatments may be invasive, noninvasive, or minimally invasive. They may also have minimal or no downtime, making them a good choice for people with busy schedules.

PRP

PRP, which stands for platelet-rich plasma, is a treatment that uses your blood to correct deeply pitted acne. The technique involves injecting blood into the damaged tissue to help “fill in” the scars over time. At Schweiger Dermatology Group, we use the SELPHYL system. This system spins and separates the blood, allowing us to access the Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix (PRFM). This PRFM is made of pure platelets with growth factors that promote healing and the growth of elastin and collagen.

Chemical Peels for Acne Scars

Chemical peels involve applying a carefully formulated acidic solution to the skin, which helps exfoliate the outer layers and stimulate collagen production. As the treated skin peels away, it reveals smoother skin underneath, reducing the appearance of shallow acne scars and improving overall skin texture. While not a one-size-fits-all solution, chemical peels can be extra effective for rolling scars and some boxcar scars.

Microneedling and Microdermabrasion for Acne Marks

Microneedling and microdermabrasion both stimulate collagen production, but they do more than that. The procedure, which uses tiny needles (along with a numbing agent), causes controlled injury to the skin to encourage it to repair itself. These procedures may be combined with other treatments such as Laser Genesis or medicated skincare products.

How To Prevent Acne Scars

There are many methods for preventing acne scars, but the best one is to treat acne early and often. The longer you wait to treat an acne flare, the more likely you’ll have scarring. If you develop acne, remember not to pick at or pop your pimples. Doing so can damage the skin further, increasing the likelihood of scarring.

Additionally, avoid activities that can damage the skin, such as smoking or getting sunburnt. Finally, maintaining overall skin health through proper hydration, a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, and stress management can support the skin’s natural healing processes.

Acne Scar Removal at Schweiger Dermatology Group

At Schweiger Dermatology Group, we offer several different acne scar removal options to help your skin look and feel its best. You don’t have to endure pitted acne scars or continued outbreaks. We have non-invasive and minimally invasive treatment options to eliminate discoloration, improve the skin’s texture, and reduce pitting and raised scarring. Contact us today or find a location to schedule an appointment with one of our dark spot removal specialists.