If you are looking for a treatment for deep acne scars on your skin, there are several options to choose from. Which one is best for you will depend on your skin and the type of scar you have.
Dermabrasion and Chemical Peel
Dermabrasion is a technique performed by a plastic surgeon, sometimes in conjunction with a chemical peel. It removes the top layer of skin on the premise that the new skin underneath will not be scarred.
The skin can take a long time to heal after this treatment and sometimes reacts poorly to the process. Some people end up with more scarring from abrasion than from acne. In darker-skinned people it can cause pigmentation changes that will take a long time to fade. It is also very expensive.
Dermabrasion is very difficult to control and can go wrong in even the most experienced hands. Think well before deciding on this treatment.
Microdermabrasion is a gentler technique that can be performed by a dermatologist or even a beauty salon instead of a plastic surgeon. It is not as likely to cause new scarring, but will only be effective on scars that were already light.
perforated grafts
This is a surgical treatment for acne scars that involves removing the scarred area and inserting a graft, usually taken from behind the ear. Local anesthesia will be administered. The extraction is quick and even the placement of the graft does not take long. The treated area will wear for a week and then should heal steadily.
Punch grafts are sometimes used on deep scars before a chemical peel or dermabrasion is applied to smooth the area.
This technique works best on deep but small ice pick-type scars. It is not as effective on large areas of scarring.
collagen injections
Collagen is a substance that the body produces when building and repairing skin. It can be injected into scarred areas to help the process. Think of it like Botox: it fills in the flesh under the skin so the scar is hidden, but it’s a temporary measure. In 6 months the injected collagen will be reabsorbed by the body and if the scar has not healed by itself in that time, it will be visible again. Then I would need another treatment.
The collagen can be of human or cattle origin. Cow collagen is cheaper but cannot be used in some people, for example, if you have an autoimmune disease, such as type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and many other conditions.
laser treatment
Laser treatment for scars can be very effective, but it is probably the most expensive treatment out there. Expect to pay $300 to $500 per session. For some types of scars, one treatment is enough, but for others you may need up to 10 sessions.
Laser treatments for acne scars vary depending on the type of laser used. Some aim to smooth the skin, others are to reduce redness. Carbon dioxide laser treatment actually removes the affected tissue. The strongest types of laser treatment can cause redness that can last for several months.
When you understand your options, you should consult a dermatologist to help you choose which deep acne scar treatment is best for your situation.
