Acne scars can be a lasting reminder of past breakouts, and for some, they can impact self-confidence and daily life. While some people see no need to treat their acne scars, others may find that treatment improves their self-esteem and overall well-being. If you’re considering treatment, it’s essential to understand your options and prepare for your consultation with a dermatologist.
Is Acne Scar Treatment Right for You?
Before scheduling an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist, ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I often wish I could get rid of my acne scars?
- Do my scars limit my opportunities to date, get a job, advance my career, or perform well in school?
- Am I less outgoing and social now than before I had acne scars?
If you answered “yes” to one or more of these questions, a consultation with a dermatologist may help you explore the best treatment options.
Setting Realistic Expectations for Treatment
To make the most of your consultation, consider the following questions beforehand:
- How do I want to look after treatment? Some procedures reduce the appearance of scars, while others smooth wavy skin texture.
- What is my budget for treatment? Most treatments are not covered by medical insurance.
- How much downtime can I afford? Some treatments require recovery periods.
- How much time can I dedicate to treatment and post-care? Some treatments require multiple sessions.
What to Expect During a Dermatology Consultation
During your appointment, your dermatologist will:
- Examine your skin to determine the types and locations of your acne scars.
- Ask about your concerns and expectations for treatment.
- Discuss treatment options tailored to your skin type, scar severity, and lifestyle.
Treatment Options for Acne Scars
If you and your dermatologist decide that treatment is right for you, a customized plan will be created based on your needs. Here are common treatments available for different types of acne scars:
Treatments for Depressed (Atrophic) Acne Scars
- Chemical Peels: Help the skin produce more collagen and elastin, making scars less noticeable.
- Fillers: Add volume to depressed scars and can stimulate collagen production.
- Laser Therapy: Resurfaces the skin, reducing the appearance of scars.
- Microneedling: Uses tiny needles to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Often combined with microneedling to enhance healing and collagen production.
- Microdermabrasion: Gently exfoliates the skin to improve overall skin tone.
- Radiofrequency Therapy: Uses heat energy to promote collagen growth and smooth scars.
- Scar Surgery: Lifts or removes scars to improve their appearance.
Treatments for Raised (Hypertrophic) Acne Scars
- Laser Therapy: Helps flatten and reduce the appearance of raised scars.
- Corticosteroid Injections: Reduce inflammation and size of raised scars.
- Prescription Medications: Applied to the skin to minimize scar visibility.
Treatments for Keloid Scars
- Corticosteroid Injections: Help shrink the keloid.
- Laser Therapy: Reduces redness and flattens the scar.
- Surgical Removal: Often combined with other treatments to prevent regrowth.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the keloid to reduce its size.
Important Considerations Before Treatment
- Stop active acne breakouts first. Treating active acne first can prevent new scars.
- Inform your dermatologist about previous acne treatments. Some treatments can cause side effects when combined.
- Follow pre-treatment instructions carefully. Many treatments require preparation, such as avoiding sun exposure or using prescribed skincare products.
Post-Treatment Skin Care
After undergoing treatment, maintaining a proper skincare routine is crucial. Make sure to:
- Use sunscreen to protect healing skin.
- Follow prescribed skincare regimens to maintain results.
- Avoid picking at scars or undergoing harsh treatments without medical advice.
If acne scars are affecting your confidence, schedule a consultation. We can provide guidance on effective treatments tailored to your needs. By understanding your options and setting realistic expectations, we can help you make informed decisions about your skincare journey.
The information presented in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns, please call our office or make an appointment with a medical professional. Savannah River Dermatology is located at 575 Furys Ferry Rd in Augusta, Ga. Our office can be reached at 706-691-7079.
