Choosing the right acne scar treatment involves understanding the type of scars you have, evaluating their severity, and considering your skin type, goals, and budget. Acne scars are generally categorised into atrophic (depressed scars, including ice pick, boxcar, and rolling scars) or hypertrophic (raised scars). Each type requires specific treatment approaches to achieve optimal results, so working with a skin therapist is key to tailoring the best plan for your skin.
For atrophic scars, treatments focus on stimulating collagen production and resurfacing the skin. Chemical peels are a popular option for mild to moderate scars, using acids like glycolic or salicylic acid to exfoliate the skin and promote new cell growth. For deeper scars, microneedling can be effective, as it creates micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen and improve texture. When combined with radiofrequency or platelet-rich plasma (PRP), microneedling’s results are enhanced, making it a good choice for stubborn scars. Laser treatments, such as fractional CO2 or erbium lasers, are highly effective for rolling and boxcar scars, as they resurface the skin and trigger collagen remodelling. However, these treatments may require several sessions and some downtime.
For deeper, narrow scars like ice pick scars, more aggressive acne treatments may be necessary. TCA Cross (trichloroacetic acid cross method) involves applying concentrated acid directly to the scar to promote collagen growth and fill in the depression. Another option is punch excision, a minor surgical procedure that removes the scar and closes the area with stitches. Subcision is a technique often used for rolling scars, where a needle is inserted under the scar to release the tethered skin and promote healing with new collagen formation.
Raised or hypertrophic scars and keloids require a different approach. Treatments often focus on flattening the scar tissue and reducing redness. Steroid injections can help shrink raised scars, while laser treatments like pulsed dye lasers (PDL) reduce redness and smooth the scar. Silicone sheets or gels are non-invasive options that can soften and flatten hypertrophic scars over time.
Your skin type and tone also play a role in determining the right treatment. For darker skin tones, some treatments like aggressive lasers or deep chemical peels may increase the risk of hyperpigmentation, so gentler options like microneedling or superficial peels are preferred. Budget and lifestyle factors also matter, as treatments like laser resurfacing or subcision can be costly and may require downtime, while peels and microneedling are generally more affordable with shorter recovery periods.
Overall
In summary, selecting the right acne scar treatment requires a careful assessment of the scar type, severity, skin characteristics, and personal preferences. Combining multiple treatments often yields the best results, as different approaches target specific aspects of scarring. Consulting with a skin therapist ensures a customised plan that addresses your unique needs while minimising risks and maximising outcomes.