How to get rid of acne scars

How to get rid of acne scarring is on the mind of most acne sufferers.  Suffers are left with embarrassing scars after the acne outbreak has cleared.  And, from the number of acne medications and scar removal products, this condition is not limited to a small number of people.

The severity of the facial scars will determine what you’ll need to reduce the acne scars. 

For mild acne scars there are a few home remedies and procedures.  Dermabrasion is a procedure that is usually done in the dermatologist’s office.  However, with the increase in acne scar products manufacturers have produced creams and scrubs that will mimic the results of dermatology procedures.  These dermabrasions and chemical peels work best in combination with retinal or alpha hydroxyl acid lotions or cream – also available over the counter.

Mederma is a cream medication that is available over the counter at large pharmacies.  Studies have shown that Mederma will soften the appearance of scar tissue no matter how old the scars.  Mederma is greaseless and invisible with a slight pleasant odor.  No one will know you are using this product except you.  This process is much less expensive than the laser surgeries available through the dermatologist.

Professional dermabrasion was actually adapted from the use of sandpaper to remove damaged skin.  Now the dermatologist will use a rotating machine to abrade the top layers of skin off the face.  The doctor will numb or freeze the skin first.  After the procedure scabs will form over the area.  These take a week or so to heal and the skin will remain reddish for several weeks after that.  It will be about a month before you’ll see the final results on your acne scars.

Aloe Vera juice and gels work by helping to regenerate the skin tissue.  Some research suggests that it is also an immune booster and anti-inflammatory agent.  You can purchase a product with Aloe Vera or grow your own plant at home.  They are easy to grow, don’t require much light and you have fresh Aloe Vera juice any time you want it.

Moderate to severe acne scars may require professional treatments.  There are several options available at the dermatologist.  Your doctor can advise you as to the best treatment for your acne scars and your skin type.

Laser resurfacing (ablative) is used by the dermatologist to remove skin so that new skin can form in its’ place.  Sometimes people with a high amount of melanin or darker skin will find they have uneven skin tones after treatment.  Clients also find that the area is red and swollen for several weeks.  The full results of laser treatments for acne scars may take up to 6 months or one year.

Dermatologists also have an option for acne scars called augmentation.  This is a procedure where the doctor injects a collagen type of material, or your own fat cells, under the scar in your face to bring it to the surface. These treatment work for about 6 months but the acne scars will return.

People who are suffering from acne scars often try home products before going to a dermatologist because of the cost difference.  Acne scar treatment is much more cost efficient at home and usually much less painful.

Subcision is a procedure where the dermatologist detaches the acne scar from deeper tissue and allows a pool of blood to form under the scar.  The clot helps to form connective tissue under the scar to level it with the rest of the skin surface.  Combined with dermabrasion it has a high level of success. 

The decision to remove acne scarring is a personal one that can only be made by you.  Some people find that cosmetics do an adequate job covering their acne scars and they don’t choose to have them removed.  Others find that the emotional stress they feel far outweighs both the financial and physical cost of having them removed.  Either decision is right but you have to make it.