Treating Scars / Acne/oily/enlarged pores / Skin care Routines / Skincare Tips

Acne Scar Treatments

Acne scar treatment in clinic

A number of medical and non medical treatments are available to treat acne scars. Although a total correction of scarred tissue deformities cannot always be achieved, the primary goal is to improve the appearance. The more invasive treatments are injections, dermabrasion and lasers, which can be painful, expensive and requires recovery time.

Non invasive Acne Scar Treatments

Glycolic Acid
Medical studies demonstrate that higher strengths of Glycolic Acid (peels), along with consistent use of glycolic acid skincare products can make a dramatic improvement in the appearance of skin scarred from acne. Research shows that the depth of shallow depressed scars can be reduced significantly with repeated Glycolic Acid use. Areas that are hyperpigmented as a result of acne, as well as an enlarged follicle, also greatly benefit from Glycolic Acid. Unlike procedures that resolve only the scar itself, Glycolic Acid provides overall skin resurfacing and retexturisation, encouraging a more reflective, even-toned surface. Additionally Glycolic Acid can address scarring while at the same time it can act as a potent tool for resolving the acne process and preventing new lesions. A combination of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, and Azelaic Acid can provide even greater resurfacing benefits (Jan Marini Bioclear Face Lotion). If you can't tolerate Glycolic Acid a great product to use iS Clinical Poly-Vitamin Serum.

Retinol
Retinol has been shown to be effective in treating acne scars. It's thought to stimulate collagen production, division, and the growth of cells. It helps with skincare by repairing the skin's lower layers, making the skin appear softer and feel noticeably smoother. Additionally, when Retinol is used with Glycolic Acid, there is a synergistic enhancement and the overall results are greatly intensified.

Antioxidant

A powerful antioxidant which means it intercepts skin cell damage. It speeds up healing, stimulates collagen production, brightens the skin, and is anti-inflammatory. After a month of use, you should notice brightening and radiance, but we are talking 3 to 6 months before you see the firming and plumping effects of increased collagen production.

Growth Factors
Supporting elements to diminish acne scars while improving the texture and tone of your skin.

Science of Skin Rescue No. One

Award-Winning Intensive treatment for stressed and blemished prone skin, scientifically proven to soothe,  reduce redness and scarring. Formulated to target spots, blemishes, acne scarring and as well as redness caused by spot breakouts. This clinically proven cream formulated with natural plant extracts, active green tea extract (EGCG),  to help target redness and scarring produced by acne, spots and blemishes.

Silcone Scar gel
Silicone scar gel has been used effectively for the treatment of scars resulting from acne. It softens and flattens raised scars and reduces the redness.

Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion removes dead skin cells to stimulate the growth of new elastic fibers and collagen, improving the overall finish of your skin and evening out skin tone. The scars depth is reduced and a glow is more visible. Regular treatments are needed for optimum results.

Microdermabrasion is often used as part of an overall skincare program because it enhances the effectiveness of other skin care products. This is because by exfoliating the top layer of skin, it allows the active ingredients in other skincare products to penetrate the middle dermal layer of skin where it can be more beneficial.

Microneedle
A new roller device with rows of tiny microneedles is now available for the treatment of acne scars. When the needles penetrate the skin surface, micro-channels form. This allows product penetration past the skin barrier. The physical minute breaks in the skin surface stimulate the skin to produce collagen naturally (Collagen Induction Therapy). New skin forms under the dead scar tissue, hence the skin naturally becomes smoother once it regenerates. To obtain and sustain the treatment results from acne scarring it's recommended to have a course of deeper treatments done at a clinic with a trained professional as well as using a home kit. This simple mechanical device produces results equivalent to laser therapy, without the prolonged recovery or expense. It is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide as a useful part of the Aesthetic Physician's tool kit in the treatment of acne scars and general rejuvenation. 

With all these treatments you have to persevere with it, you cannot just use the product to improve the skin and then stop, you must persist with the treatment for the best results.

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Andrea Patel Dermatology Nurse Practitioner & Director Author
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