Acne scars are really the second phase of an unwelcome attack on one's skin. Acne is the first phase, and afterwards a scar remains to consistenly remind you of that experience. Different types of acne should best be studied in order to understand how their various forms of scarring result. What determines the type of scarring will be the type and severity of the acne. Early treatment is what is necessary in order to prevent scars. Nonetheless if scars do form, rest easy as there are proven treatments for improving the scar and ultimately removing it.

Acne Explained

The first step in the unwelcome process of acne is oil and dead skin cells being blocked within the skin's pores. Once the skin pores are not allowed air to enter them from being blocked in this manner, acne breakouts result. The first degree of acne breakouts are mild and resemble what are popularly known as whiteheads and blackheads. The more moderately severe acne would be pustules and papules. Respectively, as most teenagers will be able to tell you, these are the red pimples with a white center and the large inflamed red pimples. Severe forms of acne are described as the painful and pus filled cysts, lumps, and nodules. This severe form of acne is what causes scars to form. What unfortunately is the other large reason acne scars form is because people pick at their acne.

Treating Acne Scars

What results from acne usually is a red or brown discoloration. Acne spots or hyperpigmentation are the terms for this condition. With time they fade without any treatment necessary. Rolling acne scars are those with a gradual dip or a recession to them. Ice pick scars are the kind that are deep and narrow, and resemble what looks like tiny holes scattered throughout the face. Scars that have angular edges are called boxcar scars. It is important to know that before any treatment of acne scars, it is necessary to have your acne condition under control.

The acne scar treatments are determined by the severity of the scars. When treating a moderate acne scar, the doctor could suggest chemical peels or microdermabrasion. When acne scarring is more profound, there are treatments available to better treat them. Laser resurfacing is one of these treatments. Two layers are affected here. The top layer is removed and the middle layer is tightened. The end result is smoother looking skin. In the course of the treatment, local anesthesia is used, and 3 to 10 days recovery time will be necessary. How dermabrasion works is the skin is sanded down using a spinning diamond tool or a wire brush. After two to three weeks of healing time, the outer layer resembles a smoother and more even appearance and texture. Acne scars that are even more deep have available to them treatments that are more abrasive. However before anyone goes to this level of treatment it is avised to consult with your dermatologist.

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