Aesthetics, Conditions Services
Acne and Acne Scars
Causes of Acne
Several factors contribute to the development of acne, including:
The sebaceous glands in the skin produce an oily substance called sebum. When these glands produce too much sebum, it can clog the hair follicles, leading to acne.
Propionibacterium acnes, a type of bacteria, is naturally present on the skin. However, when it multiplies excessively within clogged pores, it can cause inflammation and acne breakouts.
Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstrual cycles, or hormonal imbalances can increase oil production and contribute to the development of acne.
Some medications, such as corticosteroids, androgenic steroids, or lithium, can trigger acne breakouts.
Although research is ongoing, certain studies suggest that high-glycemic-index foods and dairy products may worsen acne in some individuals.
Type of Acne scars
Acne scars can vary in appearance and are classified into different types based on their characteristics. The types of acne scars include:
- ice pick scars, which are deep and narrow, resembling small puncture marks;
- boxcar scars, which are shallow to moderately deep with defined edges and a box-like shape;
- rolling scars, which have a wave-like or rolling appearance; and
- hypertrophic or keloid scars, which are raised and often occur in individuals with a tendency for excessive scar tissue formation.
Each type of acne scar requires specific treatment approaches to effectively reduce their appearance and improve the skin’s texture.
Causes of Acne
Fortunately, there are various effective treatment options available to manage acne and minimize the risk of scarring. These include:
Over-the-counter creams, gels, or lotions containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria.
In more severe cases, a dermatologist may prescribe oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies (such as birth control pills), probiotics or isotretinoin, a powerful medication for severe acne.
Different lasers and Broadband Light (BBL) therapy have proven to be effective tools in the management of acne and acne scars. Laser treatments, such as fractional laser resurfacing, target the damaged skin cells and stimulate collagen production, resulting in smoother and more even skin texture. They can also help reduce active acne by targeting the sebaceous glands and reducing oil production. Additionally, lasers can specifically target and address different types of acne scars, including ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars. BBL therapy, on the other hand, uses intense pulsed light to target the bacteria that cause acne and reduce inflammation. It also helps to improve the appearance of acne scars by promoting collagen remodeling. The use of lasers and BBL in acne and acne scar management offers patients non-invasive or minimally invasive treatment options with significant results and minimal downtime. However, it is crucial to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the most suitable laser or BBL treatment for your specific skin concerns.
Chemical peels involve the application of a solution to the skin, which causes the top layer to peel off, revealing smoother, clearer skin underneath. TCA Cross and TCA Paint are two popular treatments used to address acne scars. TCA Cross (Trichloroacetic Acid Cross) involves the application of a high concentration of TCA to the individual acne scars. This stimulates the production of collagen and encourages skin remodeling, resulting in the improvement of the scar’s appearance. TCA Paint, on the other hand, involves the application of a lower concentration of TCA to the entire face or affected area. This treatment helps to even out skin tone, minimize pigmentation irregularities, and promote overall skin rejuvenation. Both TCA Cross and TCA Paint can be effective options for individuals looking to reduce the visibility of acne scars and achieve smoother, more even skin. It is important to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific needs.
Subcision is an effective and minimally invasive procedure used to treat certain types of acne scars. It involves the use of a specialized needle or cannula to break up the fibrous bands that tether the scar tissue to the underlying skin. By releasing these bands, subcision helps to lift the depressed scars and stimulate collagen production. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Subcision can be particularly beneficial for rolling scars and certain types of boxcar scars. Following the procedure, the skin gradually improves in texture and appearance, resulting in smoother and more even skin. Depending on the severity of the scars, multiple sessions of subcision may be required for optimal results.
Microneedling is a popular and effective treatment for acne scars. This procedure involves the use of a device with tiny needles that create controlled micro-injuries to the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural healing response, triggering the production of collagen and elastin. As a result, the skin’s texture and appearance improve over time, and acne scars become less noticeable. Microneedling is especially effective for treating rolling scars, boxcar scars, and certain types of ice pick scars. The procedure is typically performed by a trained professional and may require multiple sessions depending on the severity of the scars. Microneedling is a safe and minimally invasive treatment option that can provide significant improvements in the overall appearance of acne scars, helping individuals regain smoother and more youthful-looking skin.
Prevention of Acne
Preventing acne breakouts is key to minimizing the risk of scarring. Here are some preventive measures to consider:
- Proper Skincare:
Cleanse your face gently twice a day using a mild cleanser. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh products that can irritate the skin. - Avoid Touching Your Face:
Touching your face can transfer bacteria and oil from your hands to your skin, potentially leading to breakouts. - Diet and Lifestyle:
Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid high-glycemic-index foods, greasy or fried foods, and excessive dairy consumption. - Stress Management:
Stress can worsen acne, so it’s essential to practice stress-reducing techniques like exercise, meditation, or yoga. - Skin Care and Facial Cleansing:
Use of gentle skin care to manage the oil production, hydration and to minimise pores helps to prevent comedone formation. Regular cleansing facials and medical facials help to handle the comedone formation at an early stage avoiding deep cystic acne and acne scars.
Power Duo : Lasers and Biostimulators in Acne Scar Treatment
Acne scars can have a significant impact on one’s self-esteem, but advancements in dermatological treatments offer hope. Two notable treatments for acne scars are lasers and biostimulators:
- Lasers: Laser treatments for acne scars work by delivering concentrated light energy to the affected areas. This energy stimulates the production of collagen, which helps to reduce the appearance of scars by smoothing out the skin’s texture. Laser treatments can be highly effective in treating various types of acne scars, including ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars.
- Biostimulators: Biostimulators, such as injectable fillers, work by stimulating collagen production and promoting skin rejuvenation. These treatments can help fill in depressed scars, improving their appearance and restoring a smoother texture to the skin.
Both lasers and biostimulators offer non-invasive or minimally invasive options for treating acne scars, with minimal downtime and significant improvements in the appearance of scars.
Conclusion
Acne and acne scars can be challenging to deal with, but with the right knowledge and treatment options, it is possible to achieve clearer, smoother skin. By understanding the causes of acne, adopting preventive measures, and exploring advanced treatments like lasers and biostimulators, individuals can regain their confidence and improve their overall well-being. If you are struggling with acne or acne scars, consulting a doctor or skincare professional can guide you towards the most suitable treatment plan for your specific needs.
