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What Are Acne Scars?
Acne scars are the result of persistent and untreated acne. When skin is infected with acne, it triggers an inflammatory reaction in the body which can leave behind permanent marks or indented depressions. Different types of scars can be caused by acne, and they can vary in severity and shape.
The Different Types of Acne Scars
Ice Pick Scars
Ice pick scars are the deeper and smaller indents in the skin, usually resembling a ‘crater’. These types of scars are usually the most difficult to treat and can take the most time to improve.
Rolling Scars
Rolling scars occur when there is a loss of tissue and indentations in the skin. These scars have a rolling or undulating pattern, that can resemble gentle ocean waves. Rolling scars are classified in terms of their depth and can be any size.
Boxcar Scars
Boxcar scars are wide, angular indentations that appear like chickenpox scars. They can range in depth and size too, and are usually shallow and contain steep angled sides.
Keloid Scars
Keloid scars occur when the body produces too much granulated tissue. These scars are the result of an overgrowth of the scar tissue, making darkened and raised lesions that can extend or ‘sprawl’ beyond the edges of the original wound.
How to Treat Acne Scars
The treatments for acne-scarring depend on the severity and type of the marks. For scars that are not deep, dermabrasion and laser resurfacing techniques can help to reduce the appearance of them. Other treatments include chemical peels and medical needling, which can help to improve any discolouration or uneven pigmentation. For deeper scars, punch excision is the preferred method to improve their appearance. Finally, subcision can be used to raise depressed acne scarring and stimulate the formation of collagen.
Health Benefits of Treating Acne Scars
Acne scars can cause emotional and mental distress, particularly when accompanied by a lack of confidence. Treating acne scars is a rewarding process and can be life-changing for those who suffer from them. It can dramatically improve self-esteem and help individuals to embrace their newfound confidence. And as a result, it can positively benefit a person’s mental health as well.
Keywords: Acne Scars, Ice Pick Scars, Rolling Scars, Boxcar Scars, Keloid Scars, Dermabrasion, Laser Resurfacing, Chemical Peels, Medical Needling, Punch Excision, Subcision.
