Acne leaves behind scars that are both physical and emotional in nature. Fortunately, if you can get rid of the physical acne scars, emotional healing usually follows close behind them. Generally, it's best to see a dermatologist who can help you get rid of acne scars, as many over-the-counter treatments don't work or deliver only minimal results over a very long period of time. In fact, they may even make your acne worse, leading to further scarring.
The treatments you use to get rid of acne scars will depend on the types of scarring you have. Dark marks aren't really scars, but are commonly included in discussions of acne scarring. These marks are discoloration left behind after a pimple has gone away. They can last for years. Fortunately, a dermatologist can usually prescribe bleaching creams and lotions that can dispatch these marks quickly.
Chemical peels can be used to get rid of acne scars. For this treatment, a type of acid is placed on the affected area. It sits on the skin for a period of time before it is removed. The purpose of the acid is to take the top layer of skin off and leave the skin beneath it smoother and clearer. This treatment method works best for mild scarring.
Dermabrasion uses mechanical means to get rid of acne scars. To start, a medical professional numbs the skin. A rotating disk then uses a movement like sanding to remove the top layer of the skin. This method delivers results that last only a short time, as the scars tend to come back eventually. Also, it tends to be rather uncomfortable.
Laser resurfacing is another method used to get rid of acne scars. This method is similar to dermabrasion, with one major exception. It uses lasers to remove the top layer of the skin instead of mechanical means. Unfortunately, the results of this method are similar to those of dermabrasion, and it's common for the scarring to come back eventually.
Subcision is a type of treatment used to get rid of acne scars that are the rolling type, which usually occur on the cheeks and forehead. For this treatment, the skin is separated from the tissue underneath it. This allows blood to move into the newly created opening, raising the skin. This method typically requires several treatments to give good results.
The best treatment for acne scars is prevention. This means never picking at pimples or squeezing them. It also means avoiding acne treatments that burn the skin. Consuming a healthy, well-balanced diet can help the body to heal, and seeing a dermatologist can help you to head off pimples before they can cause a problem.
