Acne Scar Removal

Treatment for acne scars:

Specific dermatological procedures to minimize acne scars will be determined by your physician based on:

• your age, overall health, and medical history
• severity of the scar
• type of scar
• your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• your opinion or preference

Although acne often is a chronic condition, even if it lasts only during adolescence, acne can leave life-long scars. Acne scars typically look like "icepick" pit scars or crater-like scars. Although proper treatment for acne may help minimize scarring, several dermatological procedures may help to further minimize any acne scars, including the following:

• dermabrasion
  Dermabrasion may be used to minimize small scars, minor skin surface irregularities, surgical scars, and acne scars. As the name implies, dermabrasion involves removing the top layers of skin with an electrical machine that "abrades" the skin. As the skin heals from the procedure, the surface appears smoother and fresher.
  
  
• chemical peels
  Chemical peels are often used to minimize sun-damaged skin, irregular pigment, and superficial scars. The top layer of skin is removed with a chemical application to the skin. By removing the top layer, the skin regenerates, often improving the skin's appearance.
  
  
• collagen injections
  One type of collagen, which is derived from purified bovine (cow) collagen, is injected beneath the skin to replace the body's natural collagen that has been lost. Injectable collagen is generally used to treat wrinkles, scars, and facial lines.
  
  
• laser resurfacing
  Laser resurfacing uses high-energy light to burn away damaged skin. Laser resurfacing may be used to minimize wrinkles and fine scars.
  
  
• punch grafts
  Punch grafts are small skin grafts used to replace scarred skin. A hole is punched in the skin to remove the scar, which is then replaced with unscarred skin (often from the back of the earlobe). Punch grafts can help treat deep acne scars.