Acne scarring alone seems to be almost as much of a problem as the acne itself. There are many ways to reduce it, from over-the-counter products to in-office procedures run by a dermatologist, such as microdermabrasion.
These treatments work effectively on different forms of acne scars and smoothen them out, along with improving the general texture of the skin. Understanding your skin type and how bad the scars are is the first step toward choosing the right treatment.
What are Acne Scars?
Acne scars are formed when a breakout penetrates really deep into the skin, causing damage to tissue there. [1] Naturally, not every acne will eventually result in scarring, but the higher the severity of a breakout, the more likely that a scar will be formed. Since different types of scars react to treatments differently, identifying which one you have matters.
Moreover, skin tone is a dominant factor in the type of treatment since most of the treatments are not friendly to darker skin tones, as it may result in pigmentation problems. If one needs acne scarring reduction, it’s best carried out with a board-certified dermatologist for smooth and even skin complexion.
Acne Treatments You Apply to the Skin
The common first-line management for the treatment of acne scars is topical. Topical agents generally increase cell turnover, decrease inflammation, and, over time, lead to better skin texture. Some commonly preferred options are the following:
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Retinoids
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that quicken skin cell turnover. They work to fade acne scars by stimulating the replacement of the old layer with the new, healthy skin layer under them. [2] It also stimulates the formation of collagen, which generally improves the texture of the skin and helps minimize the depth of scars. Occasionally, it can make the skin dry, so applying it on the skin with a good moisturizer is advisable.
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Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
AHA, mainly glycolic acid, are mild acids that help exfoliate the top layer of the skin. Upon removal, it permits the growth of new skin cells; hence, the skin surface is smoother and has more lightened discolorations on acne scars. [3]
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Salicylic Acid
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA), salicylic acid is well-known for its ability to penetrate pores and exfoliate the skin from within. It effectively reduced the redness, swelling, and pigmentation of acne scars. Particularly effective for people with oily and acne-prone skin, salicylic acid has the added bonus of preventing future breakouts.
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Lactic Acid
It is one of the AHAs. This is a relatively gentle peel capable of reducing scarring and smoothing skin. Even though it may result in the lightening of dark scars, it also may exacerbate hyperpigmentation. It is quite advisable to test it first on a very small skin patch.
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Over-the-Counter Scar Creams
Several over-the-counter creams are made to treat acne scars. These generally contain various combinations of the above ingredients and different skin-protective agents.
Acne Treatment that Works Internally
Besides topical remedies, there are some internal remedies that are pretty useful to control acne scars. These internal treatments generally work on the root causes of acne and, therefore, help prevent new scars from developing:
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Oral Antibiotics
They help in reducing inflammation and bacteria on the skin and can help in reducing the formation of new scars. These are mostly used in moderate to severe acne.
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Steroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections may help to soften and flatten raised scars, like hypertrophic or keloid scars. [4] Normally, these injections are administered in the clinic of a dermatologist, and the results are closely monitored.
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Oral Retinoids (Isotretinoin)
This is a pharmacological agent of choice that can powerfully act on severe acne, slow down the production of oil, and prevent new scars.
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Hormonal Treatments
These treatments help balance hormones in cases where severe acne is caused by hormonal imbalances. These treatments include birth control pills or spironolactone and help reduce acne by minimizing the chances of scarring.
Procedures that Reduce Scarring
The more persistent or harsh acne scarring will benefit from professional dermatological procedures that can deliver dramatically improved results. Most efficient among these treatments are:
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Microneedling
Moving tiny needles across the skin makes micro-injuries, which will stimulate the body’s healing process and increase collagen production. It works really great for rolling scars and all other variants of indented scars. In a 2017 review, microneedling was shown to enhance the appearance of atrophic or indented acne scars by 31–62%. [5]
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Chemical Peels
In this method, an applied chemical solution removes outer skin layers. As a result of treatment, one acquires a more even, smoother, and finer-toned skin. Also, it tends to fade superficial scars that one has on their body, improving the overall texture of the skin. [6]
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Laser Resurfacing
It is a process where an outer damaged skin layer is peeled off by the lasers to stimulate collagen production, hence filling up sunken scars. Different types of lasers can be used depending on the type of scar and the skin tone, but commonly used ones include fractional or carbon dioxide ablative lasers. [7]
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Dermal Fillers
In case of deeper scars, fillers could be injected to “fill in” the indentations for a smoother surface. This is more or less a temporary measure. [8]
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Subcision
A minimally invasive treatment in which a needle is introduced under the skin to break up the fibrous tissue that causes rolling scars. It helps to lift face skin depressions and, thus, smooth out the skin surface.
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Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion
This is the physical removal of the top layer of the skin to smooth out scarring. Dermabrasion is deeper and takes more downtime, and microdermabrasion is a milder option with less downtime.
UVB Light Therapy for Acne
UVB light, as a constituent of sunlight, acts on acne by killing the acne bacteria and reducing inflammation of an acne lesion. Though reducing acne breakouts and regulating sebum production, UVB therapy should be exerted with caution because possible skin damage from sunburn and an increased risk of developing skin cancer are concerns. [9]
The administration of UV treatment should only be done under the supervision of a healthcare provider and, in most cases, as part of a broader acne treatment plan.
When It’s Time to Contact the Dermatologist
If your acne is severe, painful, or not responding to over-the-counter treatments, it’s time to see a dermatologist. They can treat acne scars, provide stronger medications, and offer advanced procedures like laser therapy or chemical peeling.
In addition, if acne is affecting your mental well-being or you simply are not quite sure that what you have is acne, they can help you diagnose and treat the skin problem effectively.
The Bottom Line
Acne scars can be stubborn, but their appearance can be significantly reduced with the right approach. The first step is management; by beginning treatment early, one can avoid conditions that result in scars, such as picking or squeezing pimples. Once you get the scars, home and over-the-counter medically trusted treatments can be among the best in helping yield smoother, even-toned skin.
Consult a dermatologist to explore what works most and provide a treatment plan specific to your needs. If you have any issues or need assistance, feel free to contact us at UV Treat by simply filling out the form, and we’ll reach out to help you.
