Acne usually stays on the skin for some time. But if they are inflammatory and heal abnormally, they can leave behind ugly scars for years to come. Thankfully, for both indented and raised acne scars, modern dermatology has many safe and effective treatments. But there is no such fixed “best” treatment for acne scar management. What will work for anyone with acne scars can only be determined by a dermatologist after evaluating the depth, type, and severity of the acne scars.

If you require the best options for acne scar reduction in Bangalore, here’s what you need to know about acne scars and their management options. Explore the top treatments and then make the right choice.

Understanding Acne Scars

Acne scars are serious inflammation-related damage to the skin’s middle layer (dermis), where the collagen and elastin lie. When an inflammatory or severe case of acne develops, it causes damage, and the body naturally responds by producing new collagen to repair it. But in an attempt to repair the damage, unusual, permanent marks develop due to either excessive collagen production or insufficient collagen regeneration.

Too little collagen leads to a variety of depressed acne scars, like ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars. While too much collagen results in hypertrophic or keloid scars.

Knowing your acne scar type, cause, and depth is the first step towards finding the best treatment for your acne scar.

What Professional Procedures Work Best for Acne Scar Management?

Cosmetic dermatologists usually recommend a combined treatment approach to dramatically reduce the appearance of multiple acne scars at once.

Based on the skin type and condition, specifically the acne scar type and its severity, dermatologists offer these treatments, either alone or in combination:

1. Microneedling- This is a collagen-induction treatment in which controlled microinjuries are created in the skin to stimulate collagen remodeling and improve early to moderate rolling and boxcar scars.

2. Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing- This removes the top skin layers in tiny, microscopic columns to trigger healing of deeper acne scars and dramatic improvement in uneven texture. It is best for ice pick and boxcar scars.

3. Chemical Peels- These are the exfoliating acid solutions that work best for superficial acne scars and improvement of post-acne marks and poor skin tone.

4. Dermal Fillers- These are hyaluronic-acid-based fillers that immediately create a plumping, lifted effect to fade out depressed acne scars.   

5. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy- This is a popular, natural skin-regeneration approach that is often paired with laser and microneedling procedures. The patient’s own blood is taken and processed to get platelet-rich plasma, which is rich in natural growth factors and essential proteins. These boost the natural healing response and collagen production, which are required for reducing depressed acne scars.   

6. TCA CROSS- This is the highly concentrated, trichloroacetic acid-based, chemical reconstruction of deep-seated, ice pack scars and boxcar scars. Localized chemical damage at the base of the scars stimulates collagen production, elevating the scar as it heals and leaving the skin smooth.

7. Subcision- This is a minimally invasive procedure where a fine needle or cannula is inserted parallel to the skin surface and moved in a fan-like motion to release the fibrous bands that pull the skin inward, allowing the skin to naturally lift. The micro-trauma even triggers natural collagen production, which further fills the depression, firms, and smooths the skin. It is best for rolling scars.     

Can Dermatologist-Recommended Treatments Completely Remove Acne Scars?

For deep acne scars, complete removal is rare. However, with the most suitable advanced skin treatment, most patients achieve 60% to 90% improvement in acne scar depth, skin texture, and skin tone. Most treatments require repetition, and improvements are gradual over several months, depending on the extent of the acne scar.

Conclusion

Acne scars that result from collagen excess or decline can’t be treated in the same way. For optimal reduction in acne scars, a personalized treatment plan is necessary, based on the patient’s skin type, acne scar type, and aesthetic goals. Usually, a combination of modern dermatological procedures is encouraged for the best possible results.

If you are looking for a dermatologist in Bangalore for acne scar correction, consult Dr. Rasya Dixit at Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic. She is an expert in acne and acne scars and can help you achieve and maintain clearer, smoother, healthier-looking skin with budget-friendly treatment, professional care, and guidance.