Scarring and excess pigmentation is often the unfortunate result of acne and can have as much of a negative impact on people as the original acne.
Acne Scars: Am I suitable?
There are two types of acne scars: pigmented scars, which leave behind a purplish-brown mark once the blemish goes away, and ice pick scars, which leave small holes in the skin.
There is a range of treatments from cosmeceuticals, skin peels, carboxytherapy, laser skin rejuvenation, microdermabrasion, dermaroller and hydradermabrasion, which all have their place depending on the nature and severity of the acne scars.
Acne Scars: What do I have to do to prepare?
It is important that the active acne has been dealt with first.
Acne Scars: What’s the treatment like?
Pigmented scars are usually initially treated with over-the-counter bleaching creams containing a small percentage of hydroquinone, but if that doesn’t work then a GP can prescribe a stronger bleaching cream to be used with a retinoid cream. More severe scarring usually responds well to skin peels.
Ice pick scars, which are like little pockets in the skin, need to be smoothed away. Treatments for achieving this range from microdermabrasion, laser skin rejuvenation or dermaroller.
Acne Scars: What about after?
All treatments have some downtime depending on the depth and strength of the treatment. Click through to the individual treatments to learn more.
Acne Scars: Are there any risks or side effects?
There are side effects associated with all treatments and your cosmetic doctor or dermatologist should go through these with you.
Acne Scars: What will it cost me?
The price of a skin peels can vary widely, but a superficial peel can cost as little as £50, although a course of treatments is usually recommended. A deep peel can cost as much as £2,500.
Dermaroller costs approximately £250 per session.
