One of the most common concerns about having acne is the risk of scarring. Early and appropriate treatment is the best way to reduce the risk. However, if you’re left with scarring, there are many things that can be done to improve it.
What is acne scarring?
Acne scarring refers to permanent indents and textural changes on the skin.
Colour changes that occur following acne, such as red and brown marks on the skin, are not referred to as scarring, as these usually resolve with time.
What are the different types of acne scarring?
There are several different types of acne scars:
Ice pick scars are deep, narrow scars.
Box car scars are broad, shallow, depressed scars with steep edges.
Rolling scars are wider, undulating scars with sloping edges.
Keloid and hypertrophic scars are raised lumpy scars, most commonly seen on the chest, shoulders and back.
How can I prevent acne scarring?
The best way to prevent acne scarring is the early treatment of acne, and the avoidance of trauma to the skin (squeezing or picking pimples).
How can I treat acne scarring?
Treatment depends on the type of scars and the skin type of the patient, and often requires a combination of different treatments. For flat red and brown marks, sun protection and topical agents such as azelaic acid and hydroquinone can be helpful. Vascular lasers and intense pulsed light can also be helpful for redness.
Options for depressed scars include radiofrequency, skin needling, non-ablative and ablative lasers, dermal fillers, and TCA CROSS. Procedures such as punch elevation, punch excision and subcision may be used for some types of scarring. Corticosteroid injections may be used for hypertrophic or keloid scars. There’s some evidence that topical treatments such as topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide may improve scarring.
