The treatment of acne scars is possible with many different methods. Acne scars manifest themselves as skin irregularities and spots that occur during adolescence and can occur at different depths after the recovery period. In addition, acne scars can also occur after acne, also called adult acne.
In this article, we will talk about the treatment of acne scars and blemishes, how and with which methods acne scars can be removed.
How Does Acne (Pimple) Scar Form?
Acne (pimples) is actually a temporary skin problem, but the fact that acne is temporary does not mean that there will be no acne scars. Depending on the healing process of acne, acne scars may occur.
Acne scars are formed as a result of inflamed lesions. Acne (acne) occurs with the clogging of the pores. Over time, the acne reddens or swells, and accordingly, some tears occur in the acne. The size of this tear varies from acne to acne. The larger the size of the tear and the more damaged the lower skin called the dermis, the higher the probability of acne scar formation.
What Are the Types of Spots of Acne (Pimple) Scars?
Basically, acne scars/spots are divided into two as “Hypertrophic” and “Atrophic”:
- Hypertrophic Acne Scars: The skin can produce more collagen than necessary to heal the damage caused by acne as a defense mechanism. As a result, spots or scars can be seen on the skin. Hypertrophic acne scars are mostly seen in red or pink colors. It is also known as hypertrophic acne scars, “Keloid” or “Hypertrophic Scar”.
- Atrophic Acne (Pimple) Traces: Tissue loss can be seen on the skin during the healing process of acne (pimple). This causes spots/marks on the skin. These acne scars; It is seen as some pits, depressions or fluctuations on the skin.
What are the Treatment Options for the Spots of Acne (Pimple) Scars?
There are treatment options such as chemical peeling, dermatherapy and dermabrasion for removing acne spots.
With the developing laser technologies in recent years, fractional CO2 laser has taken the first place as the gold standard treatment method for the removal of these deep acne scars and pits. 3-5 sessions of application, which are performed at two-month intervals on average and vary according to the depth of the scar, are sufficient.
Chemical Peeling Treatment for Acne (Pimple) Scars
Chemical peeling is an application that provides successful results in the treatment of acne scars. In the chemical peeling process, acids are applied to the surface of the skin in amounts suitable for the structure of the skin.
Substances used in the treatment of acne scars; It is Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), Beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) and Jessner's solution. Acids belonging to the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) group; They are listed as glycolic acid, lactic acid, pyruvic acid, mandelic acid, phytic acid, tartaric acid and citric acid. Acids belonging to the beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) group appear as salicylic acid, linoleic acid and oleic acid. Jessner's solution contains lactic acid, resorcinol and salicylic acid in 95% ethanol.
Thanks to the acids mentioned above, the skin is peeled in a controlled manner, the dead layer on the skin is removed and the blood circulation is revitalized. Thanks to the peeling and regeneration of the skin, it is possible to eliminate acne scars and blemishes.
Of course, there are factors that need to be taken into consideration for the success of chemical peeling and the elimination of acne scars. First of all, after the chemical peeling process, a sunscreen that is compatible with the skin should be used regularly. Since the skin is renewed and peeled, more scars and spots can be seen if the skin is exposed to sun rays, and this situation is prevented by regular use of sunscreen. Another issue to be aware of is that chemical peeling should be done by a doctor. Chemical peeling, which is not done under the control of a doctor, can cause frightening results.
Dermatherapy for Acne Spots
Dermatherapy (dermapen) is used in the treatment of facial wrinkles, lines and acne scars/spots thanks to a special device. In the dermatherapy method, the skin is stimulated by some needles that are compatible with the skin surface, and in this way, the skin is provided to renew itself. In this way, the skin is renewed and acne scars are eliminated. It is very important to follow every advice given by the doctor after the procedure to obtain successful results from the procedure.
As with chemical peeling, dermatherapy must be applied by health professionals.
Dermabrasion for Acne Spots
The dermabrasion process is performed with a diamond-tipped device specially designed for the application. Thanks to the dermabrasion process, the top layer of the skin is sanded and skin regeneration is achieved accordingly. Regeneration of the skin and treatment of acne scars/spots play an important role. It is extremely important to follow your doctor's recommendations after the procedure.