Acne scars are scars that are left behind after a person has had acne. There are two types of acne scars. Pitted scars happen when the underlying skin tissue has been damaged. Pigmented scars (either red or brown) are marks left behind after the acne has cleared up. It is best to use an acne scar treatment as soon as possible after the scars appear.
In the simplest terms, scars form at the site of an injury to tissue. They are the visible reminders of injury and tissue repair. In the case of acne, the injury is caused by the body’s inflammatory response to sebum, bacteria and dead cells in the plugged sebaceous follicle. Two types of true scars exist, as discussed later: (1) depressed areas such as ice-pick scars, and (2) raised thickened tissue such as keloids.
Acne scarring is caused by a variety of factors. When acne is produced on the skin as a response to sebum, the body may attempt to target the inflammation with white blood cells. Once the inflammation has subsided, however, the tissue may have yet to be fully repaired, and as such, scar tissue will show. It is important, however, to note that marks on the skin are not necessarily scars; simple marks will usually disappear within seven months.
Early acne scars
After an acne lesion has healed, it can leave a red or hyperpigmented mark on the skin. This is actually not a scar, but rather a post-inflammatory change. The redness or hyperpigmentation is seen as the skin goes through its healing and remodeling process, which takes approximately 6-12 months. If no more acne lesions develop in that area, the skin can heal normally. Any color change or skin defect still present after 1 year is considered to be a permanent defect or scar.
Acne Scars Treatment
Acne should be treated early and adequately. Acne is more likely to go on to scar if it has been left untreated or inadequately treated. This may involve a general practitioner or if difficult or severe early referral to a dermatologist may be suggested. A family history of severe acne or acne scarring may be an indication for early referral to see a dermatologist.
Scar Revision:
Surgical removal (or excision) of acne scars is especially effective for ice pick and boxcar scars. The excision may be in the form of a punch that is closed with sutures that are removed about 7 days later.
Another technique called subcision uses a sharp instrument to undercut this scar tissue, rolling scars are a result of scar tissue holding the skin down, the overlying skin is not cut so there is no need for sutures.
For generations acne scars were a painful reminder of our skin's difficult history, a history of red pimples and other acne that could not be erased. This finally began to change, first with the use of dermabrasion and today lasers. With the development of many new technologies we are finally beginning to see the smoother, less scarred skin of our prepubescent days. From the advent of non-invasive lasers to rebuild and rejuvenate skin, to invasive techniques, which can remove the scarred skin, there is hope for patients with acne scars.
