What Causes Acne Scars?
Acne scars generally result from inflamed blemishes that are caused by engorged skin pores. Skin pores can swell up from excessive oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, causing a break in the follicle wall. Minor breaks in the follicle wall do not take as long to heal, but a major one can cause infected material to spill out into the surrounding tissue to create deeper lesions. Your skin has its own self-repair technique for lesions. New collagen fibers are formed and attempt to repair them. Unfortunately, as we age, our bodies produce less and less collagen, making it harder for acne scars to fade. And even when our skin repairs itself, it does not look as clear and smooth as it once was.
What are the Main Types of Acne Scars?
Scars resulting from acne are identified as either hypertrophic/keloid or atrophic/depressed. Hypertrophic/keloid scarring develops when the body produces too much collagen as acne wounds heal. They look like a mass of raised tissue on the surface of the skin.
Atrophic/depressed scars are caused by a loss of tissue. Often referred to as “icepick” scars, they appear as small, visible holes in the skin. “Boxcar” scars are depressions that are commonly round in shape. They can look similar to the scars you can get from the chickenpox.
What Should I do about my Existing Scars?
If you have existing acne scars, make sure to stay out of the sun. Excessive sun exposure can darken scars and make them more visible. Remember to avoid over-scrubbing when you wash your face. Friction will irritate inflamed skin. Never pick at your scars, especially if you haven’t washed your hands. Bacteria from your hands and nails can result in the formation of additional cysts.
How Laser Aesthetic Corrects Acne Scars
Excel V laser treatments and microneedling are two of the available options at Laser Aesthetic in Methuen, Massachusetts. Excel V treatments will smooth the appearance of your skin without the use of surgery or other invasive techniques.* With 1-2 treatment sessions, you can safely and effectively reduce your acne scars.* To learn more about Excel V, click here. Microneedling is a type of collagen induction therapy. By repeatedly puncturing the skin with tiny, sterile needles, your skin will heal itself with the production of new collagen and elastin.* Over the course of a few weeks, your acne scarred skin will be replaced by smoother, hydrated skin cells.* To learn more about microneedling, click here.
Schedule a Free Consultation in Merrimack Valley
Get smoother, clearer skin at Laser Aesthetic in Methuen. We offer free consultations, so schedule today! During your consultation, we will determine which treatment option will work best for you. To get started, fill out the request form on our site or give us a call at (978) 685-2737. We serve Methuen, Lawrence, Haverhill, Andover, Lowell and Dracut in the Merrimack Valley.
