Being a common skin condition, acne affects a lot of people. In fact, over 90% of adolescents are affected by acne. While acne itself can be frustrating, it can also leave behind scars that may impact a person’s self-esteem. By understanding the types of acne scars it is possible to determine the most effective treatment approach to minimise them and get clearer skin.
In this blog post, let us explore the various types of acne scars and discuss treatment options available for each one of them.
Different Types of Acne Scars
Acne scars are categorized based on their appearance and how they form. Here's a closer look:
Atrophic Scars
These are indented or depressed scars caused by a loss of tissue during the acne healing process.
- Ice Pick Scars: These are deep, narrow scars that extend into the dermis. They resemble small puncture wounds and are often challenging to treat.
- Boxcar Scars: These are wider, U-shaped depressions with sharply defined edges. They can be shallow or deep and vary in size.
- Rolling Scars: These are wider depressions with sloping edges, giving the skin an uneven, wave-like appearance.
Hypertrophic Scars
These are raised scars caused by an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. They are firm and can be pink or red.
Keloid Scars
These are a type of hypertrophic scar that extends beyond the boundaries of the original acne lesion. They are often itchy or painful and can continue to grow over time.
Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
This is not a true scar but a flat discoloration left behind after acne inflammation subsides. It appears as brown, red, or pink marks and is more common in people with darker skin tones.
Treatment Options for Individual Types of Acne Scars
Ice Pick Scars
- Punch excision: This involves surgically removing the scar and stitching the skin together.
- TCA CROSS (trichloroacetic acid chemical reconstruction of skin scars): A high concentration of TCA is applied to the scar to stimulate collagen production.
- Laser resurfacing: Ablative lasers can help to improve the appearance of ice pick scars.
Boxcar Scars
- Punch excision/elevation: The scar is either removed or surgically elevated to the level of the surrounding skin.
- Subcision: A needle is inserted under the scar to break up the fibrous bands that are pulling it down.
- Dermal fillers: Injectable fillers can help to raise the scar to the level of the surrounding skin.
- Laser resurfacing: Can improve texture and appearance.
Rolling Scars
- Subcision: Helps to release the tethered scar tissue.
- Dermal fillers: Can fill in the depressed areas.
- Laser resurfacing: Improves skin texture and stimulates collagen production.
Hypertrophic Scars
- Corticosteroid injections: Help to reduce inflammation and flatten the scar.
- Silicone gel sheeting: Can help to soften and flatten the scar.
- Cryotherapy: Freezes the scar tissue, which can help to reduce its size.
- Laser therapy: Pulsed dye laser can help to reduce redness and flatten the scar.
Keloid Scars
- Corticosteroid injections: The first line of treatment to reduce inflammation and shrink the scar.
- Cryotherapy: Can be used in conjunction with corticosteroid injections.
- Surgical removal: May be an option, but there is a risk of the keloid returning.
- Radiation therapy: May be used in severe cases.
Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- Topical treatments: Hydroquinone, retinoids, and vitamin C can help to lighten the discoloration.
- Chemical peels: Can help to exfoliate the skin and improve the appearance of PIH.
- Laser therapy: Certain lasers can target and break down the pigment.
- Microdermabrasion: Can help to exfoliate the skin and improve skin tone.
Conclusion
Acne scars can be a frustrating reminder of past breakouts. However, with the right treatment approach, it is possible to significantly improve their appearance. By understanding the different types of acne scars and available treatment options, you can work with a dermatologist to develop a personalized plan to achieve smoother, clearer skin.
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Sources
https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-disorders/types-of-acne-scars#when-to-see-a-dermatologist
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/derm-treat/scars/treatment
https://www.verywellhealth.com/types-of-acne-scars-15812
Image Source: Image by freepik
