How Can I Smooth Out My Acne Scars?

Many patients who have struggled with severe or cystic acne in the past find that it leaves indents and evidence of scarring long after the acne has cleared up. This can greatly affect the texture of the skin as well as the patient’s self-confidence.

A common question that aestheticians must answer is how to smooth out these scars in order to achieve a smooth, youthful, and pleasing appearance. In most cases the answer to this question lies in professional skin care procedures, including aggressive exfoliation through chemical peels, CO2 lasers, and injectable fillers.

Chemical Peels

Available in a variety of strengths to suit the needs of many different individuals, chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin of the face in order to exfoliate and remove the outer layer. This allows the skin to regenerate, leaving it smoother with a more even pigment and a youthful, healthy glow.

This process is instrumental in the stimulation of fibroblasts and the creation of collagen, which keeps the skin plump and healthy looking. Because the new skin will be temporarily more sensitive to sunlight, it’s always a good idea to wear sunscreen whenever you are going outside for at least a couple of weeks following each treatment.

Depending on the strength of your chosen treatment and the severity of your acne scarring, this procedure may be repeated every 1-6 weeks until you have achieved the desired results.

Laser Resurfacing

If chemical peels are not sufficient to produce the desired results, laser resurfacing can be used for more dramatic results.

This procedure involves heating the epidermis and dermis to destroy the ‘inactive’ collagen, leading to regrowth. Because this treatment leaves the skin raw and extremely sensitive, the skin will need to be given time and protection to heal, like any other wound. As it heals, new skin will form over the area, making it smoother and tighter as the skin heals. The results of this treatment are quite dramatic and can last for several years.

Injectable Fillers

Injectable fillers provide another option for smoothing out the skin. Injected directly into the indented scarred areas, they provide lift to help improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. This effect is temporary and lasts anywhere from 6 months to 1 year.

Most cosmetic experts will recommend exhausting your more permanent options first before turning to temporary solutions that will need to be repeated in order to maintain the desired results.