Spa Treatments for Acne Scarring

Spa Treatments for Acne Scarring
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Since almost everyone experiences acne in their lifetime, acne scars are also common. Acne scars are what is left on the skin after acne heals, such as dark marks or deep crevices. They are most commonly formed when a person pops pimples or picks at her skin. Acne scars can be embarrassing because they prevent skin from looking smooth and even. Going to the spa to get a treatment can help to reduce acne scarring effectively. There are many spa treatments to reduce acne scarring, all of which have benefits and drawbacks.

Blue Light Therapy

Blue light laser therapy is a treatment done at spas that involves putting a low-intensity blue light from a laser on the skin. This blue light destroys the bacteria that cause acne and reduces the appearance of both acne and its scars, according to the Mayo Clinic. While blue light therapy can cause some redness and dryness of the skin, it can also make the skin look more smooth and even. It is recommended to get blue light therapy in a series of treatments to see the best results.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are used for a variety of purposes, such as reducing the appearance of wrinkles and reducing acne. The Mayo Clinic states that chemical peels can also reduce acne scarring. Most spas use glycolic acid or salicylic acid to remove the top layer of skin and encourage a new, scar-free layer of skin to grow. The Mayo Clinic warns that blisters, redness and peeling can occur after chemical peels, but only temporarily.

Microdermabrasions

Microdermabrasions, also called dermabrasions, are popular in many spas across the U.S. The Nemours Foundation explains that microdermabrasions involve using a rotating brush that has pieces of diamond tips on the skin. This instrument is brushed on the skin so that it can remove the top layer of skin to reveal a smoother and more-even looking layer of new skin. Microdermabrasions are somewhat painful for some people, but getting them done can reduce acne scars drastically.

Pulsed Light and Heat Therapy

According to the Mayo Clinic, pulsed light and heat therapy is a treatment done to reduce acne and acne scarring. It is done in many high-end spas, as it is generally more expensive than treatments like microdermabrasions. Pulsed light and heat therapy works by using alternating low-intensity light and heat sources to improve the look of the skin. It has been found to be effective at decreasing oil production on the skin, destroying bacteria and promoting the growth of a new, healthier layer of skin.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Lochridge Last updated on: Apr 8, 2010

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