To remove or reduce acne scars, several effective treatments are available depending on the type and severity of the scars:
Topical Treatments
- Retinoids: These speed up cell regeneration, improve skin texture, reduce discoloration, and make scars less noticeable. They can be found over the counter or prescribed in higher concentrations but increase sun sensitivity, so daily sunscreen is necessary
- Salicylic Acid: Common in many acne products, it exfoliates the skin, clears pores, reduces swelling and redness, and helps improve all types of acne scars. It may cause dryness or irritation, so use cautiously if you have sensitive skin
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Mild acids that exfoliate the outer skin layer to reveal fresh skin and reduce hyperpigmentation, but may cause irritation at high concentrations
Dermatological Procedures
- Chemical Peels: Use special acids to remove the top skin layer, improving skin structure and reducing scars, particularly effective for atrophic scars like boxcar and ice pick scars
- Laser Resurfacing: Ablative lasers remove the top skin layers for deeper scar treatment, while non-ablative lasers target deeper skin without damaging the surface. Laser treatment stimulates collagen production and smooths skin texture but is less suitable for darker skin tones or active acne
- Microneedling: Involves puncturing the skin with tiny needles to stimulate collagen production, helping to reduce the depth of depressed scars. It is safe for all skin tones but may take several months to show results
- Dermabrasion: Uses a rotating brush or diamond instrument to wear down the skin surface, allowing new smoother skin to grow. Healing can take 10 days to 3 weeks
- Fillers: Injectable fillers (collagen, hyaluronic acid, fat, or synthetic materials) can plump depressed scars temporarily or permanently, best for a small number of boxcar or rolling scars
Additional Notes
- Treatments should be tailored to scar type and skin tone.
- Some scars, especially red or brown marks from acne, may fade naturally over 12 months or more.
- Avoid overusing masks or harsh lotions, which can irritate skin and worsen scars
Consulting a dermatologist is recommended to determine the best treatment plan based on your specific scars and skin type
