By

- Dr. Naren Prakash, Dermatologist

The best treatment for acne scars depends on the type of scars, individual skin characteristics, and the severity of scarring. Here are various approaches that may help improve the appearance of acne scars:

1. Home Skin Care

• Using sunscreen to limit the contrast between unscarred skin and scars.
• Some medicated creams containing azelaic acid or hydroxy acids may help.

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2. Soft Tissue Fillers

• Injecting collagen, fat, or other substances under the skin to plump the skin over indented scars.
• Results are temporary, requiring repeat treatments.

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3. Steroid Injection

• Injecting steroids into certain types of raised scars to improve their appearance.

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4. Laser Resurfacing

• This approach is used on scars treated with dermabrasion.
• Increased risk of side effects for individuals with darker skin or a history of keloids.

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5. Other Energy-Based Procedures

• Pulsed light sources and radiofrequency devices help make scars less noticeable without damaging the outer layer of skin.
• Subtle results may require repeat treatments.

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6. Dermabrasion

• Reserved for more severe scarring.
• The top layer of skin is removed with a rapidly rotating brush or device.
• Potential side effects include scarring and changes in skin color.

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7. Chemical Peel

• Chemical solution applied to scar tissue to remove the top layer of skin.
• Minimizes the appearance of deeper scars.
• Potential side effects include changes in skin color.

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8. Skin Needling

• Needles stimulate collagen formation in underlying tissue.
• Safe, simple, and possibly effective for acne scarring.
• Minimal risk of discolouring the skin, with subtle results requiring repeat treatments.

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9. Surgery

• Punch excision: Cutting out individual acne scars and repairing the wound with stitches or a skin graft.
• Subcision: Inserting needles under the skin to loosen fibers below a scar.

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10. OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox)

• Injecting Botox to relax surrounding skin and improve the appearance of acne scars.
• Results are temporary, requiring repeat treatments.

It's essential to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment based on individual circumstances. The choice of treatment may involve a combination of approaches for optimal results.

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