How to Get Rid of Acne Scars
As if frequent breakouts weren’t enough, the unflattering scars they leave behind are always unfortunate reminders of previous attempts to control acne breakouts. Fortunately, our Board-Certified Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Florence Mussat, can rescue your previously damaged skin with a professional set of treatments and at-home recommendations.
What Causes Your Acne Scars?
Before looking into the treatments, let’s consider the types of acne scars with which you might be dealing. These come in several shapes and sizes and are often accompanied by various signs of facial aging, including forehead and eye wrinkles and other signs of photodamage.
Atrophic or Depressed Scars:
Most prevalent on the face, these commonly seen scars create an indentation in the skin. The depth of the scars can vary depending on their shape. Where wide, U-shaped scars tend to be shallow, narrower V-shaped scars can extend deep below the skin’s surface.
Hypertrophic or Keloid Scars:
While more common on the chest and back for some people, these scars are especially visible, as they sit higher than the surrounding skin. Their prominence is caused by an excess of collagen developing in the area as the scar heals.
Professional Acne Scarring Treatment
Whether you’re a skincare novice or religiously follow the latest cosmetic dermatology news, any new skincare regimen should start with a visit to a trusted expert such as Dr. Mussat. She typically will start by prescribing medical-grade, topical retinoids to treat your acne conditions.
Depending on the condition, depth, and appearance of your current acne scars, Dr. Mussat may also recommend either additional in-office or at-home treatments.
Prevention of Future Acne Scars
To prevent new acne breakouts, continue following your prescribed course of topical retinoids and do the following.
- Wash your face regularly at least twice a day and after exercise to remove dirt and sweat to that pores don’t clog
- Stay out of the sun. Overexposure to the sun can darken scars and make them look more prominent
- Avoid overwashing or scrubbing scarred areas, which can further reduce skin elasticity and heighten the scar’s appearance.
- Avoid picking at scars. Bacteria from unwashed fingers and nails increase the risk of new cysts forming, leading to the development of a larger scar.
- Use sunscreen of at least 30 SPF, which blocks 97% of the sun’s UV rays. Blocking harmful UV rays isn’t only critical for preventing skin cancer; it can also diminish the appearance of acne scars. As scars heal, the newly developing skin can darken faster than the surrounding tissue.
With the help of Dr. Florence Mussat, you can enjoy clear, smooth skin with minimal reminders of past acne outbreaks. To begin your journey towards achieving the look you’ve always wanted, call Dr. Florence Mussat at (312) 751-9000 or schedule a personal consultation with her online today!