Acne scars are a common side effect from severe acne. Scars result from damaged collagen beneath the skin that leads to permanent disfigurement. There are variations in the type of scarring that can occur, ranging from deep-pitted scars, to lumps and discoloration. Though no acne scar remedies are 100 percent effective, treatment for most types of acne scars can provide a considerable difference in the appearance of the patient.
Chemical peels
Chemicals can be used to perform chemical resurfacing, also referred to as a chemical peel. The process involves removing the top layers of skin to promote new skin growth and improved appearance. Common chemicals used are phenol, salicyclic acid and glycolic acid. Gentle peels usually only leave a slight redness to the treated area, while deeper peels can result in blisters and swelling, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Side effects of chemical peels include additional scarring, infection and discoloration, particularly in darker skinned patients.
Cream
Over-the-counter topical medications that contain hydroquinone serve as a bleaching agent to reduce the scarring of discolored skin. Prescription creams that contain Retin-A also can be used to even out a scarred appearance. Combination medications are available that contain cortisone cream and tretinoin. Side effects from facial creams vary and can include itching and redness that usually dissipates quickly.
Laser resurfacing
Acne scarring can be treated with laser resurfacing that utilizes a high-energy beam of light. Structure in the facial skin is targeted by the laser that destroys the top layer of skin. Recovery from laser resurfacing can take up to two or three weeks. Sterile bandages must be worn over the treated areas and cleaned regularly. Patients must apply ointment on the areas to prevent scabs from forming. Redness leftover from laser treatments can last two or three moths. Small white bumps are one side effect from laser resurfacing.
Dermabrasion
Abrasive tools are used to remove the top layer of skin in dermabrasion treatments. Tools may be motorized as in the case of a diamond cylinder or motorized brush. Some dermatologists prefer manual dermabrasion, which employs a type of sandpaper to remove the skin. Depending on how deep the acne scars have gone, the tools can take off just the top layer of skin, or epidermis, or take off the top two layers. After removal of the offensive top layers of skin, collagen reproduces and forms new skin, which can take months to heal. Complications from dermabrasion include infection, discoloration, additional scarring and long healing periods that can last for up to six months.
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