Acne Scars Care Options
- Brandon Larsen
- Oct 27, 2024
- 5 min read
Symptoms of Acne Scars:
Depressed or Pitted Scars: These scars occur when there is a loss of tissue, leaving indented marks on the skin. Common types include icepick scars (deep and narrow), boxcar scars (broad with sharp edges), and rolling scars (wavy or uneven).
Raised Scars (Hypertrophic or Keloid): Raised scars form when excess collagen is produced during the healing process. These scars are thick and may grow beyond the boundary of the original acne lesion, particularly on the chest and back.
Discoloration: While not technically scars, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) can leave dark spots where acne once was. These marks can fade over time but may linger for months or even years.
Common Causes of Acne Scars:
Inflammatory Acne: Severe forms of acne, like cystic or nodular acne, cause significant inflammation, leading to tissue damage and, subsequently, scarring.
Picking or Popping Pimples: Manipulating acne lesions increases the likelihood of scarring, as it disrupts the healing process and can introduce bacteria, causing further inflammation.
Genetic Factors: Some individuals are more prone to scarring based on their skin type and genetic makeup, particularly if their skin tends to form hypertrophic or keloid scars.
Self-Care Options for Acne Scars:
Gentle Skin Care Routine: A daily regimen can help fade discoloration and improve skin texture over time. Use a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen to avoid further irritation and protect the skin from UV damage, which can worsen scars and dark spots.
Sunscreen: Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial for preventing scars from darkening. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, even if indoors, as UV rays can penetrate windows.
Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter products that include the following ingredients can help reduce the appearance of acne scars:
Retinoids (e.g., Retinol or Adapalene): These increase skin cell turnover, promote collagen production, and help fade scars and hyperpigmentation.
Cost: $15 - $50 for drugstore retinoids or up to $100+ for higher-end brands.
Vitamin C Serums: These antioxidants brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation.
Cost: $20 - $80, depending on concentration and brand.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): These exfoliating acids (such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid) can help smooth skin texture and lighten dark spots.
Cost: $10 - $50.
Chemical Peels (At-Home): Mild chemical peels with lactic acid or glycolic acid can promote skin renewal and improve the appearance of superficial scars.
Cost: $20 - $100, depending on strength and brand.
Microneedling Devices (At-Home): Microneedling tools can stimulate collagen production and smooth out pitted scars. At-home devices are less intensive than in-office treatments but can still offer some benefits over time.
Cost: $30 - $150 for home microneedling kits.
Scar Gels or Silicone Sheets: Products specifically designed for scars, such as silicone gel sheets or scar creams, can help flatten raised scars and reduce discoloration.
Cost: $15 - $50.
Patience and Consistency: Treating acne scars takes time, and results may not be visible for several weeks or months. Stick with your routine and make adjustments as necessary based on how your skin responds.
When to Seek Medical Help:
Severe Scarring: If at-home treatments are not improving the appearance of your scars, or if you have deep, pitted scars or raised keloid scars, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for stronger interventions.
Skin Irritation or Allergic Reactions: If your skin becomes red, itchy, or inflamed from any products you’re using, stop use immediately and seek advice from a healthcare provider.
Hyperpigmentation that Doesn’t Fade: If dark spots or discoloration persist despite using treatments like retinoids or vitamin C, a dermatologist may recommend stronger alternatives or in-office treatments.
Telehealth Options:
For individuals looking to address acne scars, telehealth services provide convenient access to dermatologists who can offer advice on treatments and products:
Teladoc Health: Teladoc allows you to consult with dermatologists about the best options for managing acne scars and offers prescription treatments if necessary.
Amwell: Amwell offers virtual visits with dermatologists who can evaluate the severity of your scars and suggest in-office or at-home treatments.
Curology: Curology provides customized skincare routines, including prescription-strength retinoids, to help reduce acne scars. Their services include virtual consultations and follow-up care.
PlushCare: PlushCare’s dermatologists can help guide you on treatment options, from topical treatments to discussing whether you should pursue in-person procedures.
In-Person Options for Acne Scar Treatment:
If at-home care isn’t enough, in-person dermatological treatments can offer more intensive solutions to reduce the appearance of scars. Here’s a breakdown of common options and their estimated costs:
Chemical Peels (In-Office): Stronger than at-home peels, in-office chemical peels can target deeper layers of skin, improving texture and fading discoloration over time.
Cost: $150 - $600 per session, depending on peel strength and clinic.
Laser Therapy: Lasers like fractional CO2 lasers or pulsed dye lasers can stimulate collagen production and improve both pitted and raised scars.
Cost: $500 - $3,000 per session, depending on the type of laser used and the area treated.
Microneedling (In-Office): Professional microneedling involves deeper penetration than at-home devices, leading to more significant improvements in skin texture and scar appearance. Radiofrequency microneedling may also be recommended for more severe scars.
Cost: $200 - $700 per session.
Dermal Fillers: For deep, pitted scars, dermal fillers can be injected to "fill" the depressions and create a smoother surface. The results are temporary, lasting between 6 to 18 months.
Cost: $500 - $1,500 per treatment, depending on the type of filler used.
Subcision: A minor surgical procedure where a dermatologist breaks up scar tissue beneath the skin, allowing the surface to rise and smooth out.
Cost: $200 - $800 per treatment, depending on the area treated.
Excision of Raised Scars: For hypertrophic or keloid scars, a dermatologist may surgically remove the scar tissue and apply treatments to prevent the scar from reforming.
Cost: $300 - $1,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
Steroid Injections: For raised scars, steroid injections can help flatten hypertrophic or keloid scars over time.
Cost: $50 - $150 per injection, with multiple sessions often required.
Recommended Care Pathway:
Start with At-Home Treatments: Begin with a gentle skin care routine, incorporating sunscreen, topical retinoids, or AHAs to help improve skin texture and fade discoloration.
Consult via Telehealth: If over-the-counter treatments are insufficient, consult a dermatologist online to get professional advice and potentially a prescription for stronger treatments.
Explore In-Office Procedures: If scars are severe or resistant to at-home care, in-office treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, or microneedling may be recommended.
Ongoing Maintenance: After treatment, maintain a consistent skincare routine with sun protection and gentle exfoliation to prevent further scarring or discoloration.
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Meet Sarah:
Sarah, a 26-year-old with a history of severe acne during her teenage years, struggled with deep pitted scars and dark marks on her cheeks. After trying over-the-counter products like retinol and vitamin C for months with little improvement, she scheduled a telehealth visit with Curology. The dermatologist prescribed a customized regimen that included a stronger retinoid and azelaic acid to target her scars.
A few months later, Sarah decided to try in-office microneedling with a local dermatologist. She underwent three sessions at $400 each, and after six months, her skin showed significant improvement in texture and the depth of her scars.
In total, Sarah spent about $1,400 on microneedling treatments and $50 per month for her Curology prescription, but the results gave her a newfound confidence, making the investment worthwhile.
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