Acne scar can sometimes develop as a complication of acne. An acne spot can lead to scarring. However, it is more common when the most serious forms of spots burst and damage the skin.
Scarring may also occur if you squeeze or pick your spots; hence, it is important that you avoid doing so.
Usually, there are three types of acne scars viz. ice pick scars, rolling scars and boxcar scars.
Acne Scar Treatment
Acne scar removal treatments are considered a type of cosmetic surgery, which is not available on the NHS. You need to check with your GP if you think of having a cosmetic surgery. Many private clinics offer treatment for acne scarring.
There are many acne scar removal creams that can help you to get rid of those hypertrophic scars. While treatment can definitely improve the overall appearance, it cannot get rid of scars completely. After using effective acne scar removal cream or treatment, most people notice 50% to 70% improvement in their overall skin texture.
Following are some of the effective acne scar removal treatment options:
- Silicone Gels
Silicone gels are available at pharmacies. They help heal skin to reduce the redness and minimise hypertrophic or keloid scars. Silicone gel should be placed over the scar for approximately 12 hours a day. You need to use it regularly for three months. For instance, Silderm Dual Action Scar Gel is found to be the best acne scar removal cream. You can ask your GP or pharmacist to know more about silicone gels.
- Acne Scars Creams
Vitamin E cream is often recommended for self-management of acne scar, but there is no scientific evidence to suggest that it is effective. However, massaging with Vitamin E skin cream can nourish the skin and make it supple.
- Laser Therapy
Also called light therapy, laser therapy can reduce the redness of the scar by targeting the congested blood vessels in the scar. Laser surgery is used to make the scar tissue flatter. This is done by removing the upper layers of the skin, thereby stimulating the collagen production in the deep layers.
- Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are available as injections that are used to plump up pitted scars. Dermal filler treatment is a bit costly and results are temporary.
It is always recommended to see your GP before using any acne scar removal cream or treatment. Your GP will be able to advise you the suitable treatment for removal of acne scars.
