Acne scarring is a serious problem that affects and jeopardizes not only the health of the skin, but also the well-being and self-esteem of men and women of all ages, particularly teenagers. As a result, when this problem arises, it is critical to seek acne scar treatment.
Contrary to popular belief, acne scarring does not appear only when pimples and blackheads on are squeezed or “popped.” This condition can affect people who have a family history of skin problems as well as those who have severe inflammatory problems.
Acne scarring can also occur for a variety of reasons. Knowing this, we at the Clinica de Pele have put together this comprehensive guide that will teach you everything you need to know about preventing and treating acne scars.
Do you want to learn more about acne scar treatment or how to avoid this condition? Then continue reading to put all your questions to rest about the subject.
Dr. Szerman explains acne scarring
What Is Acne?
Acne is defined as a “inflammatory process of the sebaceous glands and the pilosebaceous follicles by the SBD (Brazilian Society of Dermatology).
In other words, acne is just an inflammation of the skin caused by an increase in sebum production by the sebaceous glands. Furthermore, pimples are caused by the clogging of hair follicles caused by the excess of oil on the skin, dead cells, or keratin found in the sebaceous glands.
Acne is a skin condition that most commonly affects young people and teenagers, but it can also affect adults.
Scars from acne lesions can range from the most superficial to the deepest (if there is no proper treatment).
It is important to note that acne scars are treatable. But do you know what the most effective acne scar treatment is? Did you know that there are outdated and ineffective treatments, as well as modern and effective treatments?
With this in mind, we’ll go over the best acne scar treatments, including the ones we use in our Clinic.
But first, to help you better understand the problem and its causes, we’ll go over what acne scarring is and how it forms. Follow along.
What Exactly Is an Acne Scar, and How Does It Form?
Acne scars are unsightly marks or lesions that form on the skin as a result of acne not being treated or handled properly.
Acne scarring is one of the most upsetting skin conditions, especially for young people and teenagers. It is caused by picking at pimples, too much sun exposure, and severe acne.
The marks are most commonly found on the cheeks. They can, however, affect the chin and the forehead. This is a problem that has a negative impact on the self-esteem of those who have acne scars.
The good news is that acne scars can be effectively treated. Creams, peeling treatments, and lasers are just a few examples.
Listen to Carlos’ testimonial about acne scar treatment with CO2 laser (in Portuguese):
Because acne scars frequently appear as spots or are very deep, it is fundamental to go though an initial evaluation at the Clinica de Pele in Rio de Janeiro to establish a treatment plan and define the best therapeutic approach in each case. A more successful outcome for treating acne scars can only be achieved in this way.
The Primary Causes of Acne Scarring
Acne scarring is more common in people who have oily skin. However, this is not the only cause of this type of problem.
The main cause for the appearance of acne scarring is the presence of blackheads and pimples on the skin. When not treated properly, they turn into inflamed cysts under the skin. These cysts have a higher probability of becoming scars in the future.
In addition, excessive sun exposure without the use of sunscreen, as well as picking at pimples or squeezing them, are thought to be possible causes of the appearance of acne scarring.
Types of Acne Scars
Acne scars are classified into three types: atrophic, dystrophic, and hypertrophic.
The dystrophic scar, which has a white background and irregular borders, is another type of scar. They may have fibrotic nodules that contain purulent secretion (pus) or sebum.
When even the most superficial acne scar is not properly treated, it can progress to a more serious condition.
This is why we always say that the type of treatment depends on the severity of the acne, the type of skin, the patient’s response, and so on. A physician who specializes in acne and scarring should consider a variety of factors.
A consultation with a dermatology specialist is essential. Only this professional will recommend the best treatment for your specific situation. He or she will also handle all the follow-up so that you get good results (with safety).
Use this opportunity to take our free online quiz and discover that the best treatment for your case is at the Clinica de Pele in Rio de Janeiro (RJ).
Acne Scar Treatment
There are two types of acne scar treatment that are considered to be the most effective: Peeling treatments and CO2 laser therapy. Each of them will be discussed in detail below. Please read on.
PEELING TREATMENTS FOR ACNE SCARS
Peeling is one of the most popular non-invasive treatments in aesthetic medicine today.
But in addition to this, a peeling treatment leaves your skin looking brighter and feeling smoother. And after just a few sessions, patients can already see results from this treatment.
Peeling is a chemical treatment that must be applied all over the face in the case of acne.
How Do Chemical Peels Help With Acne Acar Treatment?
This procedure works by making the acne scars lighter (and also spots). Your skin will also benefit from this acne treatment in other ways, such as controlling oil and preventing pimples and blackheads.
Peeling basically involves removing the skin’s top layers to stimulate skin regeneration and the growth of new skin. This is why, in addition to lightening the blemishes of acne scars, this type of treatment can help with wrinkles and expression lines.
Types of Peeling
Peeling is classified into two types: chemical (where a product is applied) and mechanical (with the use of equipment).
Chemical peeling: Refers to the use of chemical products such as retinoic acid. It is a non-invasive procedure that can be performed in a deeper, medium, or superficial level (to treat deeper expression lines or more stubborn spots). Chemical peeling is accomplished through the use of acids such as Salicylic Acid or Retinoic Acid. And it works from the inside out.
Crystal peeling: also known as diamond peeling, is one of the types of peeling that uses a mechanical process, such as microdermabrasion. This peeling uses aluminum oxide crystals to treat sagging skin, scars, stretch marks, and other skin conditions.
Aside from chemical and crystal peeling, there is also Dermabrasion. This is a type of mechanical peeling that uses high rotation sandpapers to exfoliate the skin. It is recommended for reducing acne scars and other imperfections.
To determine the best type of peeling for you, consult with a specialist to find out the kind and number of sessions you should need. He or she will evaluate your case and guide you through this and other important procedures before, during, and after peeling treatment.
What Areas Can Be Treated With Peeling?
Although the treatment is most commonly done on the face, peeling can also be done on other parts of the body. Therefore, if you have acne scars in places other than your face, this is a type of treatment that can help. And this holds true for all peeling techniques.
Indications and Contraindications of Peelings
Peeling is particularly useful for treating acne and acne scars. This procedure, however, can also be used to treat oily skin, open pores, blemishes, and melasma. It is also very effective against photoaging, wrinkles, scars, and so on.
Peeling can be used as the primary treatment or as a complement to other treatments such as the CO2 laser.
As previously stated, pregnant women should avoid acne scar treatment with peeling, except for crystal peeling. Because crystal peeling works through dermabrasion, there are no contraindications for pregnant women who choose this technique.
Each skin type reacts differently to the treatment, and each problem requires a different number of sessions. As a result, determining how many peeling sessions are required is impossible.
It is worthwhile to consult a dermatologist for an evaluation and to inform you of the number of sessions required. However, the recommended average is 10 sessions spaced 15 days apart.
Pre-and-Post Peeling Instructions
Peelings performed in-office are extremely safe and effective. So, no special preparation is required to carry out these procedures.
Day-to-day care, such as avoiding the sun, using sunscreen, adhering to the medical prescription, and so on, is required of patients.
In our office, however, we always provide detailed instructions on how to prepare the skin before treatment. We like to keep the patient up to date on everything so that he or she can undergo treatment in greater comfort and safety.
As for post-peeling care, it is common for the skin to peel discreetly and for a few days after the procedure. This is determined by the type of peeling and the unique characteristics of each patient. The skin may eventually turn slightly red, but the situation will improve quickly.
Then, following the treatment, you should avoid excessive sun exposure and always use sunscreen. Also, apply moisturizer and avoid touching the treated area. We recommend that you always follow your doctor’s instructions.
Besides that, we recommend some products that the patient can and should use on the affected area. Dr. Szerman explains the peeling treatment in the following audio in Portuguese:
CO2 LASER THERAPY
The CO2 laser treatment for acne scars is a non-invasive procedure that is considered the gold standard on dermatological treatments.
This treatment is modern and has no side effects; it is considered the safest among treatments in the same category. This is because the CO2 Laser we use in our clinic is “pulsed + fractional,” which allows for faster skin recovery.
How CO2 Laser Therapy Works
Laser treatment, on the other hand, uses heat and can only be applied to the affected area. In other words, unlike the peeling treatment, which must be applied all over the face, this treatment is only applied to the scars.
Deka’s CO2 laser stimulates collagen production through heat rather than burning. As a result, your skin is renewed in a relatively painless procedure.
Our acne scar treatment laser works by using pulsed and fractionated light. This is another distinction.
The majority of lasers available today are only fractional, but the one we use in our clinic is both pulsed and fractional. This means that, in addition to producing heat without harming the skin and thus promoting collagen production, it also penetrates your skin slowly to avoid further damage and provide more efficient results.
This means that the laser can effectively send heat to the skin’s deepest layer. As a result, collagen production increases and the appearance of the skin improves.
That is why the CO2 laser is the best treatment option for both acne scars and active acne. Compare the results of treatments using only fractional laser versus treatments using fractional and pulsed laser:
Further to that, the majority of patients who come to our clinic for this treatment tolerate it well. That is, no significant discomfort will be experienced during each session.
But, as with the acne scar treatment with peeling, you must first consult with a dermatologist. They will determine whether the use of the CO2 laser is appropriate in your case.
Indications and Contraindications of Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment
CO2 laser therapy is especially recommended for treating acne scars due to the incredible benefits it provides to the skin, reducing the scars and restoring the patient’s self-esteem.
Apart from this, the CO2 Laser can soften wrinkles and expression lines, as well as treat melasma, dark spots on the skin, and premature aging. The CO2 Laser is not only limited to facial treatments; it can also be used for body treatments such as stretch marks and much more.
How Many Sessions Are Required?
Three to six sessions are required. However, this amount can vary depending on the severity and depth of the lesions, as well as the patient’s response to treatment.
Pre-and-Post Care for CO2 Laser Acne Scar Treatment
Following the doctor’s instructions after the procedure is just as important as doing it with experienced practitioners, such as those here at Clinica de Pele, who have been working with aesthetic and dermatological procedures for over 50 years. If you want good results, you must exercise extreme caution in this area. That’s why we begin with a skin-healing ointment:
In general, your skin will form a small peel and be slightly red and swollen after the first day of the laser session. This is a common reaction, but one of the recommendations following a CO2 laser session at the clinic is to apply the healing ointment prescribed by Dr. Szerman.
It is advised that you apply the healing ointment at least 8 times per day for the first 48 hours after the CO2 laser. This ointment is intended to moisturize your skin for the first 48 hours, but another healing ointment is recommended in the post CO2 laser protocol for the third day after the laser.
Other post-procedure care is also advised, including:
- Avoid sun exposure
- Do not wash your face for the next 8 hours
- Do not use ordinary soaps to wash your skin
- Use soap-free cleaning solutions for 5 days
- Use gentle cleansers and avoid harsh chemicals
- Avoid using cosmetics for the next 48 hours after the laser
- Wait for the formation of the peels before using sunscreen
- Stop the use of acids and lighteners until your skin has fully recovered
Do you still have questions? Then, listen to Dr. Szerman explain the CO2 laser post-procedure in this for 3 minute audio (in Portuguese):
Is It Possible to Completely Eliminate Acne Scarring?
If you want to completely remove acne scarring, you should know that while treatments for acne scarring can significantly soften the acne marks on the skin, they cannot guarantee complete removal. Patients with severe acne scars can also benefit from the treatment.
Even though there is no way to completely eliminate acne scars, with the right treatments, these marks on the skin can be significantly reduced. The sooner you begin treatment, the better the results will be.
Acne Scar Treatment Before and After
Below are before and after photos of some of our patients who had their acne scars treated at our clinic.
Testimonials
Acne Scar Treatment Costs
The cost is determined by the type of treatment and the number of sessions required. Getting a preliminary medical evaluation is thus the best course of action so that a qualified practitioner can analyze your condition and determine the most accurate budget for your case.
How to Prevent Acne Scarring
The most effective way to prevent acne scarring is to treat acne lesions. This is due to the fact that pimples and blemishes on the skin can cause inflammation and bacterial infections, worsening the problem.
It is fundamental to take steps to keep your skin healthy and to control excess oiliness, as well as the other factors that contribute to scarring. Therefore, among the recommended acne scar prevention measures are:
- Avoid picking or squeezing pimples
- Do not remove any crusts that form as a result of the inflammatory process
- Use sunscreen
- Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water regularly
- Seek dermatological treatment for pimples and pustules that have spread deeper into the skin
It is also recommended that you see a dermatologist to determine the level of oiliness on your skin and the severity of your acne. They can then suggest the best products or the most appropriate therapeutic course of action to help you avoid acne scarring safely.
FAQ
Is the Laser Painful?
The procedure is usually well-tolerated due to its pulsed technology. The Deka laser gradually penetrates the deep layers of skin without causing the aggression that most other lasers do. Additionally, we use a powerful anaesthetic cream and a skin cooler device (Freddo), which emits a jet of iced air at minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit (-30 °C), making the procedure extremely comfortable for most patients. The Deka CO2 Laser is also extremely effective in treating stretch marks and melasma.
How Does the Skin Appear After a Laser Session?
Soon after the procedure, there may be some redness, swelling, and mild to moderate stinging may occur, but these symptoms usually subside quickly. Within 24 hours, a light crust forms, which heals within 4 to 6 days (for the face) and 10 to 15 days (for the body) with the prescribed medication.
To speed up recovery and improve results, we offer an optional imported post-laser mask. The mask, which contains beta-glucan and hyaluronic acid, provides greater comfort after the procedure and enhances skin rejuvenation. We recommend that patients stay with the mask for approximately 25 minutes.
Why Is the Treatment So Effective?
We believe that three factors are necessary for successful treatment: experienced doctors, modern treatments, and well-informed patients. Therefore, we always strive for excellence in service and work with lasers that have cutting-edge technology, capable of providing less invasive treatment.
The Italian CO2 Laser Deka (fractionated + pulsed) used for treatment rejuvenates the skin through its thermal effect (heat), which is effective in treating stretch marks because it ensures the controlled production of collagen and elastin. This type of laser differs from non-pulsed fractional lasers used in the market, which rejuvenate the skin by burning.
The application of the post-Laser repairing face mask is done to aid in the renewal and rejuvenation of the skin, and can be applied immediately after the CO2 laser session.
In addition to laser treatment, we use retinoic acid peeling (a vitamin-A derivative) and Melanesse Plus for procedures. These two types of peeling are most suitable for treating active acne and acne blemishes, respectively, and are effective in controlling shine and oily skin. They act as medicine, and must remain on the face for approximately 8 hours after application. They can be applied immediately after crystal peeling.
If you want to learn more about acne scar treatment and wishes to do this treatment with us, please contact us. We are a dermatology clinic in Rio de Janeiro that is well-known for treating acne scars and other skin issues. Learn more by clicking the banner below.
