Acne occurs when the skin triggers an inflammatory response to bacteria, oil or dead skin cells that have become trapped within the pores or hair follicles. Uncontrolled acne can cause scarring. Most acne scars are the result of painful inflamed nodules or cysts which occur deep within the dermis. When these rupture, the damage to the surrounding tissues will leave visible marks on the surface of the skin. Scars form as part of a natural healing process as the body tries to repair the “injury” or in this case inflammation to the dermis.
Acne scars may appear as depressions or pitted areas in the skin that are caused by damage to the support structures under the skin. There are four common scar formations; ice pick or deep depressions that come to a point within the skin, boxcar scars that have a flat base such as chickenpox scar, and rolling scars giving the skin a wavy look. They forth type of scar is one that forms as a result of an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. This is called a hypertrophic or keloid scar.
Treatments to remove or rid the body of acne scars vary. The resolution will depend on the type and extent of the scar in question. Dermal fillers such fat transfers are temporary fixes to fill deep pitted soft scars. Laser treatments either ablative or non-ablative can work by decreasing the depth of a scar, making it appear smoother and less visible. Skin surgeries such as subcutaneous excision, punch excision or punch extensions have the ability to remove or redistribute the scar tissue. Hypertrophic scars have limited treatment options. Long lasting steroid injections at monthly intervals can benefit the area by flattening the raised areas of skin.
If you have acne or a known tendency to scar, consult a dermatologist to determine the right course of action to treat active acne or the scars associated with it. The best treatment for a scar is to prevent one from occurring. |
