Rid Acne Scars With Laser Skin Resurfacing

Rid Acne Scars With Laser Skin Resurfacing

Acne Scars - Laser Skin Resurfacing

By Sadi Erfani, MD

For sufferers, finding an effective treatment for acne scars is challenging. Skin visibly scared from acne is a lingering reminder of the most common skin disease in the US. Approximately 85% of the population growing up by the age of 12 develops acne or pimples as it is commonly known.

While it is not known how acne arises, problems with this disease usually disappear by the age of 25. Acne scars however, result from excessive skin inflammation and remain. Repetitive clogging of the skin’s pores from excess oil and bacteria production along with the accumulation of dead skin cells irritates the skin, thereby inhibiting proper and uniform healing.

Different types of scarring can result:

  • Atrophic scars – where visible damage occurs just under the skin
  • Boxcar – formations that can resemble the appearance of chicken pox
  • Ice pick scars – where skin appears like it was repeatedly punctured with an ice pick

Laser Skin Resurfacing - Acne Scars

Effective Treatment For Acne Scars

Many applications exist that try and treat different types of acne scars; over-the-counter products, acne treatments from an aesthetician or a doctor. However, depending on one’s skin type and scaring nature, finding an individual solution that works to even out damaged skin is tricky. One of the methods known to provide significant results against various acne scarring is through laser skin resurfacing.

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing can dramatically improve superficial to moderate and deep acne scars on desired areas on the face and body. This technique uses short, adjustable and concentrated micro beams of intensified light. Irregular skin is targeted precisely by vaporizing skin layers. This technique peels away damaged tissue and is a dramatic acne scar treatment.

What To Expect

Acne Scars - Laser Skin ResurfacingAfter the procedure, minimal burning of surrounding tissue accompanied by swelling, bruising or redness occurs. Approximately one week of laser skin resurfacing, the skin dries and begins to peel while collagen production is stimulated. The treated area heals within 10 to 21 days, depending on the individual’s skin condition. A fresh new layer of more uniform skin will begin to form.

It is a must to wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50 or higher during this time. Moisturizing the skin regularly to promote proper healing is also necessary. Depending on the severity of scarring, subsequent or combination treatments applied over time are often necessary. It is important to note that acne scars cannot be removed entirely, but dramatic visual results are certain to be gained.

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