After winning the battle with acne, the last thing anyone wants to deal with is the scars it leaves behind. Luckily for those who suffer, constant technological advances mean that treatments are available. But are these treatments one size fits all? In this article, you will find the different types of scars acne can cause, the best treatments for those scars and the effects it can have on different complexions.
Types of Acne Scars
- Ice Pick Scars
Ice pick scars are categorised by very deep holes in the skin. These impressions appear like the name suggests, ice pick indents. Ice pick scars as the most difficult to correct and are the result of the sebaceous gland infections. When the body attempts to heal the area, not enough collagen is produced and the deep depressions are formed. If the ice pick scars are isolated, treatment often may include excising the scar with a small punch, encouraging healing and collagen production in the area. If there are numerous ice pick scars, radio frequency devices are the most commonly used. These devices assist the skin to rebuild its collagen from the inside out. This helps to fill the scars from within. Several treatments are usually needed with this treatment but results are worth it.
- Boxcar Scars
As the name suggests, these depressed scars have more of a box-like shape. Similar to ice pick scars, they occur when the body has not produced enough collagen during the healing process. The best treatment for boxcar scars is radiofrequency. Chemical peels may assist as well but are not as effective.
- Rolling Scars
Another depressed scar, rolling scars have smooth edges and look like tiny hills and valleys. These scars can be treated with micro fat injections, radio frequency and micro needling. Micro needling treatments poke tiny pin pricks in the skin which triggers the healing process, boosting collagen production. Again, multiple treatments may be required.
- Keloid Scars
Keloids are raised scars and can have a reddish tone to them, particularly if you have a lighter complexion. For those that have a darker complexion, keloids may appear pinker. Keloid scars can be treated with steroid injections or cryosurgery which freezes the scar tissue. Cryosurgery freezes the scar tissue, causing it to slough off, but this can cause pigmentation problems of its own among people with darker skin, who are already at higher risk.
Treatments & Complexions
The most complexion-friendly treatments for acne scarring are a combination of radiofrequency and skin needling. With radiofrequency acne scar treatment, the risk for hyperpigmentation is lower than laser treatments and is particularly effective on olive or darker complexions.
To view radiofrequency treatment pricing, simply click on the button below:
Skin needling is very complexion friendly, with olive and darker complexions also able to undergo treatment with a lower risk of hyperpigmentation. This treatment is very popular as it effectively triggers collagen production, and helps to lift up depressions. Chemical peels are also safe on different skin types; however, the results are not as effective.
Fractional laser treatment can be effective for those with lighter complexions. For patients with darker complexions, this treatment possesses a higher risk of hyperpigmentation.
The best way to ensure you do not have issues with hyperpigmentation following an acne scar treatment is to firstly do your research. Choose a reputable clinic who can show you before and after pictures of treatments they have performed. From here, during consultation, your skin will be assessed on the Fitzpatrick skin type chart and the most effective treatment can be selected for you.
Next Step
At Feel Good Laser & Skin Clinic in Richmond, we specialise in customised treatment plans for your skin. Whether it’s skin needling or Sublative acne scarring treatment, our skin specialists can tailor a skin care plan specifically for your needs.
We offer a free consultation where we can assess your skin and scarring, explain our technology and answer any questions you have. You can click on the buttons below to ask a question or book a free consultation online now. Alternatively, you can call our experienced and friendly team on 1300 896 834.
