Almost every teenager gets pimples. Acne is the most common skin disease in the United States, affecting some 40 to 50 million people every year, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. But acne scarring generally is limited to those whose acne is particularly severe. While acne scars can look unsightly and affect your self-esteem, dermatologists have treatments that can diminish them considerably.
Scar Causes
Severe acne results when the skin's pores develop blockages, according to the Mayo Clinic. Oil and bacteria collect in the pores, leading to painful, inflamed cysts and nodules. When these infected pockets finally clear, they can leave a scar. Some acne scars are depressed, like pock marks, while others, called keloids, are raised. A third type of acne mark, colored spots, isn't really scarring, because it will go away eventually, but you might want treatment to clear it faster. Your scar treatment will depend on the type of scarring you have.
Medications
Nonprescription medications don't tend to be effective on severe scarring. But for those with mild acne scars, over-the-counter products might help, according to the Academy of Dermatology. If you have mildly depressed scars that are mainly saucer-shaped, look for a product containing glycolic acid, vitamin C or retinol as the active ingredient. If your problem is mainly spots, fade creams containing up to 2 percent hydroquinone can make your skin tone more even. Unfortunately, no over-the-counter treatment will help keloids very much, the academy says, although placing constant pressure on the raised scars by taping them might flatten them a bit.
Scar Surgery
For those with depressed acne scars, the Academy of Dermatology reports that surgery can be an option. Your dermatologist will either cut out the scars and replace them with skin grafts from elsewhere on your body, or he will cut underneath the depressed skin in an effort to raise the skin and separate it from the scar tissue below. Dermatologists also can use surgery to treat raised scars, but they often grow back.
Laser, Abrasion, Peels and Fillers
For those with depressed scars, several physical procedures can help, according to the academy. Dermatologists use ablative laser treatments to strip the top layer of skin, diminishing depressed scars' appearance in the process. Dermabrasion and strong chemical peels can have the same effect, removing the top layer and revealing newer-looking skin underneath. Microdermabrasion, a much milder option, can polish the skin, and several treatments can make depressed acne scars less noticeable. Dermatologists also use cosmetic fillers in pits left by acne. Most fillers, however, are temporary.
Considerations
No two cases of acne scarring are alike, and your dermatologist will want to develop an individualized treatment plan for you, based on your particular scars. The academy of dermatology warns that many acne scar treatments may involve recovery time. In addition, health insurance rarely pays for these procedures, because they're considered cosmetic. If you think you want treatment for your acne facial scars, talk with your dermatologist about your options and proposed treatment plan.
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