Best Acne Scar Treatment

There are a number of solutions ranging from dermal fillers, different types of lasers, topical treatments like Retin-A, and skin polishing homemade facials.

The most common treatment is non-ablative laser or fractional laser.

While ablative lasers (like carbon dioxide) might be cheaper, they may not be best to reduce an acne scar due to certain side effects like inflammation and hypo-pigmentation (permanent while spots). Ablative lasers seem to work better for wrinkles instead of facial scars.

Some doctors will recommend the use of topical treatments like Retin-A, alpha hydroxy acid or glycolic acids - in addition to lasers for best results. This can further help smooth out the complexion (plus, it works well to remove discoloration and fine lines.)

Treatment with dermal fillers like Restylane which can help help fill-in and push the scar up, so it's not so depressed and obvious. This is usually the best treatment for deep scars.

Another not so common acne scar treatment is a surgical procedure that helps to "free" the under layers of the dermis - again this is for a deep or pitted scar.

This is called a subcision. The physician uses a a needle or scissors (surgical of course) to separate the dermis and the underlying tissue. However, like the other procedures mentioned above, this may require some downtime as some people experience bruising and redness in the area....so your best bet is to try this last.

Best Treatment for Acne Scars

But,there are plenty options available today - some are pretty expensive and require repeated treatments. I can tell that the hardest type of scar to treat are the:

• Ice pick scars – Are pitted and deep. This type will most likely require professional treatments like laser or dermal fillers.
• Atropic scars – Is also pitted but not as deep as ice pick. This type may respond well to fillers or topical treatments like Retin-A.
• Hypertrophic scars – These types of scars are usually raised and lumpy. They can result from acne, injury, even bug bites. They are usually discolored or red - which makes them standout out even more. Some people have had success using topical treatments like Retin-A or glycolic acids. - which also reduces the discoloration too.

The bottom line is that you should discuss your treatment options with a dermatologist to see what works best for you. I wish I could tell you exactly what would work - but that would be impossible

The amount of success you can achieve from any acne scar treatment will vary from person to person depending on the complexion type and level of damage from the acne.

But keep in mind that before seeking any facial acne scar procedure, it’s important that your acne breakouts are under control.

Additional Reading for the Best Acne Scar Treatment