Have you successfully gotten rid of your acne problem, however, you are left with an unpleasant reminder? Atrophic scars are a common problem among people who have overcome this skin disease. Do you dream of getting rid of them as soon as possible and enjoying perfectly smooth skin again? Learn more about laser therapy and fulfill your desires!
How do acne scars form?
As you probably know, acne scars, although a common complication of the disease, do not have to appear at all. Much depends on the severity of the skin inflammation, as well as how quickly we get rid of the acne. Proper skin care is also important. If the inflammation is not severe, we may only be affected by redness or hyperpigmentation in areas where pimples previously appeared. If the problem is extremely severe, atrophic scars, also known as atrophic scars, begin to form on the same areas.
Acne scars are caused by enzymes produced by our bodies during inflammation. They begin to digest the tissue, specifically its basic building blocks, namely collagen and elastin. During the healing processes, there is abnormal synthesis of new tissue, it is much thinner and improperly constructed. The result is the formation of characteristic round or semicircular indentations. Their depth and size depend on the severity of the condition.
Can you remove acne scars on your own?
Self-medication can help with fresh and shallow acne scars, as well as avoiding their formation. In the first case, dermatologist-prescribed steroid ointments or creams containing heparin are often recommended. To avoid the problem, however, enzyme peels are recommended (mechanical ones can exacerbate the problem), avoiding squeezing and scratching the lesions, as well as taking proper care to properly moisturize and protect the skin with sunscreen. Remember, too, that acne is a disease, so it is always a good idea to visit a specialist who will recommend the appropriate treatment.
Professional acne scar removal
Removal of deeper or older acne scars can be done in various ways. In less complicated cases, it is often enough just to perform the right amount of professional chemical peels or opt for microdermabrasion treatment.
In more difficult cases, cosmetic treatments alone may not be enough, and acne scars will need to be removed with aesthetic medicine procedures. Laser scar removal is considered to be the most modern and effective in this regard. Procedures of this type are performed with fractional lasers, characterized by a highly focused, precise beam. During the procedure, the specialist uses it to make numerous controlled micro-injuries to the problem area, stimulating the skin to intensively regenerate itself. Picosecond lasers, with the shortest pulse yet, are considered the most effective. That’s why in our clinic we use the PicoClear device and iPixel, which belong to this group.
Effects and recommendations after laser acne scar removal treatment
Usually, several laser therapy treatments are recommended for optimal results. They will make the skin wonderfully smooth, with even texture and color. Very often it has a great impact on the psyche of patients, who regain self-confidence and get rid of complexes.
However, in order to achieve the full result, it is necessary to follow the post-surgery recommendations. Extremely important will be:
- moisturizing the skin with appropriate cosmetics;
- Drinking plenty of fluids;
- Avoiding saunas and hot baths;
- giving up sunbathing;
- intensive sun protection;
- Putting off scrubs.
It is also important to note that after the acne scar removal procedure, the skin may peel for about 7 days, as well as be swollen and red. Sometimes a rash also appears. Do not act on your own then, and under no circumstances try to speed up exfoliation. With proper skin care after the procedure, everything should quickly return to normal.
Contraindications for laser acne scar removal
Although the laser treatment itself is considered safe, in some cases it cannot be performed. Contraindications to its performance include:
- A fresh or intense tan;
- Active inflammation of the skin and serious skin conditions such as psoriasis and AD;
- Pregnancy and lactation;
- cancer;
- epilepsy;
- Hypersensitivity to light, including the use of drugs and photosensitizing herbs;
- Taking certain medications, such as antidepressants, immunosuppressants or tetracyclines;
- Problems with blood clotting or taking anticoagulants;
- diabetes;
- The tendency to form keloids or scarring.
Laser scar removal is a procedure that will quickly improve your appearance and well-being. Therefore, do not delay and schedule a consultation at our clinic to enjoy a perfectly smooth complexion again!