Acne is not a small problem.
Anyone who has ever experienced acne knows the effects are not just physical, but mental as well.
And the worst part is, even when you think it’s over, it’s not.
It’s just one hurdle after another, right?
Luckily, most of those scars don’t have to be permanent.
“The term ‘acne scar’ means something different to everyone,” she said.
There arefour main typesof acne scars.
“This is also the perfect time window to start scar treatment.
The skin is actively producing new collagen, trying to correct scars.
The longer the scar is left untreated, the harder it is to treat.”
“A dermatologist can devise an effective acne regimen.
I typically recommend a broad spectrum sunscreen (UVA and UVB) with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.”
A dermatologist can prescribe lightening medications that include hydroquinone, if needed.
Rains cautions that choosing the right products for you might be difficult.
The procedure uses a wand-bang out tool with 11 very small needles at the tip.
“I perform a lot of micro-needling.
It’s a simple concept with huge benefits,” said dermatologist and cosmetic surgeonAnjali Butani, MD.
“We’re making thousands of microscopic fine wounds in the skin so that induce collagen formation.
Just like when you cut yourself accidentally in the kitchen sometimes, the skin is smart.
It recognizes the injury and rushes nutrients and fibroblasts (new skin cells) to heal the area.”
These micro-needling tools are often used together withmedical-grade products containing growth factorsto speed healing.
“A micro-needling treatment is safe and effective for scars on the face and body.
“Most patients don’t experience any discomfort.
The treatment takes about an hour including numbing time.
Downtime is minimal patients may be red and slightly swollen post treatment but this subsides within 24-hours.”
Cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Kaleroy Papantoniou says their results can be positive.
But some doctorscaution against their useas they can leave you more susceptible to infections and more scarring.
Michael Rains, board-certified dermatologist with Westlake Dermatology.
There is minimal downtime with small scabs that typically fall off after four to seven days.
On average three to four treatments are required with treatments performed every three to six weeks.”
Ice or cold compresses can sometimes help, as well as pain medication after deeper peels.
“Laser treatments can treat initial coloration (redness and hyper-pigmentation) and resulting scarring.
Michael Rains, board-certified dermatologist with Westlake Dermatology.
Michael Rains, board-certified dermatologist with Westlake Dermatology.
