Acne Scarring

An unfortunate consequence of severe or untreated acne is the possibility of permanent physical scar formation. Acne scarring is unpredictable, so definitive prognosis is impossible even for experienced dermatologists.

Commonly, acne scarring takes place before treatment is commenced; but scarring can still occur notwithstanding preventative therapy undertaken in good time.

Acne scarring occurs in two forms, pitted scarring and keloid scarring.

Pitted scarring

Pitted scarring generally results from more severe and deeper acne. Most of this is due to deep inflammation which causes destruction of the collagen, which supports the skin, and either allows the skin to dimple into the hole or else the scar attaches to the epidermis and pulls it down into a sharp ice pick-like scar.

Scarring is due to loss of substance in the skin. Many people will develop a mark where a spot has been, it may be red or, in darker skins, very dark.

With pitted scarring, the scars may improve, or eventually settle with no treatment. Persistent scars may be relieved with collagen injection and some surgical treatments, like dermabrasion, laser-resurfacing or chemical medication.

Keloid scars

Keloids are shiny, fibrous scars which can occur even after fairly trivial acne. They grow slowly and can reach 5 cm (2 inches) across. They are tender or itchy and very embarrassing.

Keloid scars are treatable by a dermatologist usually through injection of steroids. 

Every method currently available to repair skin damaged by scarring has its pros and cons. Consult a dermatologist before undertaking such treatments. Consider all therapy options and weigh up the benefits and risks associated with each.

Get scar treatment info from Zenmed It is advisable to wait at least a year from the time that the acne becomes inactive or well controlled by therapy before embarking on scar reduction treatment. Get scar treatment info from Zenmed