Ways to Remove Acne Scars - Getting Rid of Acne Scar

Acne is a common skin problem among youngsters and they can also leave behind acne scars. An acne scar is the result of the natural healing process that repairs the tissues affected by any kind of wound or inflammation. In this process, several factors including white blood cells, participate and repair the damaged tissues of the body. But in the process, acne can leave behind scars, some of which can be permanent.

Though some of these scars cannot be eliminated completely, progress in science and technology has contributed immensely to the development of several techniques that can considerably reduce their visibility. Acne scars are generally of two types, atrophic and hypertrophic scars. Hypertrophic scars are caused by an excess production of collagen and appear as a thick, slightly raised lumps on the skin. Atrophic scars are more common and they are generally found as small depressions on the skin. Here is a list of some treatment options available for getting rid of acne scars.

Ways to Remove Acne Scars

Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is mainly used in case of small or minor scars left by acne and surgical procedures. In this process, the top layer of skin is removed in order to make the scarred area smoother with the help of specialized instruments like a metal brush or a diamond surfaced spinning blade. When the skin heals within 2 to 3 weeks, the scarred area looks much smoother than before.

Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing is considered as one of the most effective ways to remove acne scars. This method also involves removal of the outer layer of the skin, but with the help of laser beams. Generally, CO2 or Er:YAG lasers are used to remove the top layer of skin of the scar, while the heat produced in the process tightens the inner layers of skin. The combined effect of these makes the scarred area smoother than before. It also has a stimulating effect on the production of new collagen and is effective in removing even severe acne scars.

Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a milder approach towards acne scar removal as compared to dermabrasion. This method targets only the superficial layer of the skin, known as epidermis. This procedure can be carried out within a short period and the healing time required is also less than laser resurfacing and dermabrasion. There are several microdermabrasion methods like crystal microdermabrasion, diamond microdermabrasion and even home microdermabrasion systems.

Chemical Peels
Chemical peels use chemicals for exfoliating the layers of skin from the acne scarred area and can be compared with the commonly used exfoliating scrubs. However, it uses strong chemicals and is more effective in removing the layers of skin than the normal exfoliating scrubs. When the skin regenerates, it gives a much smoother appearance than before. This method is also used in case of sun damaged skin and superficial scars. As this method is comparatively milder, it is only effective for removing minor acne scars.

Punch Graft
In this method, anesthesia is applied on the area of the skin to be removed and with the help of a specialized tool, a hole is made in that area. Then a skin graft, usually taken from behind the ear, is used for replacing the damaged skin. This process is one of the most effective ways of removing deep acne scars.

Autologous Fat Transfer
Autologous fat transfer method involves the transfer of fat from other parts of the body to the scarred area. Fat is generally injected beneath the skin of the depressed scar caused by acne. This elevates the scar and make the skin smoother. But the transferred fat is usually absorbed by the skin over a period of time, and so, the process may be required to be repeated for getting rid of acne scars.

However, in addition to these medical or cosmetic treatments for acne scars, there are several natural ways. Home remedies to remove acne scars include the application of lime juice, paste of sandalwood and rosewater, honey, tomato and cucumber. Aloe vera has also proved beneficial for alleviating acne. However, these natural products will take sometime to heal the scar and are usually effective for mild to moderate scars. For severe scars, you may need one of the above mentioned cosmetic treatments, but make sure you consult a physician or dermatologist before opting for any of them.