Acne scars are emotionally and psychologically challenging which affect the quality of life and self-esteem of patients and individual. Let us understand acne scars better before knowing treatment options.Acne arises from a sebaceous gland (oil gland) present in Dermis of skin (2nd layer). Inflammation due to acne in this layer leads to scarring as this is the stay on the layer of skin compared to the outer layer. Acne causes a lot of inflammation along with infection and pus formation. In uncontrolled acne, these become bigger with a cluster of acne leading to scarring. The body tends to heal this acne with fibrosis and permanent band formation which will keep anchoring skin to deeper structures.

There are four types of scars generally described:

  1. Rolling scars: respond best to laser and non-surgical treatment
  2. Ice pick scars: respond best  to surgical treatment
  3. Box scars: respond moderately to both treatment
  4. Hypertrophic or Keloidal - combination treatment is best for treatment. These scars can’t be treated by only creams over the skin as the problem is fibrous bands beneath the skin, so treatment should also be beneath the skin.

Best treatment options for Acne Scars

Acne scars respond best to following treatments:

  • MNRF (Micro Needle Radiofrequency)-In this treatment Radiofrequency is used through gold-plated sterile needles. This works on the principle of micro needling with heat energy which breaks fibrous bands by coagulation of proteins leading to collagen remodelling. Need 4-8 sitting at a gap of 4-6 weeks for optimal results.
  • Fractional Lasers- Erbium glass and Co2 laser are proven lasers for acne scar treatment. They work on the principle of thermal energy and collagen remodelling. They also need 4-8 sessions for good results.
  • Dermaroller – In this treatment a one time use sterile dermaroller is used. The roller is rolled over the concerned area multiple times in a specified manner causing micro-injury and collagen remodelling.
  • Subcision – It is done with a needle where a sterile needle is passed at the scar level to cut the fibrous bands and release the pull.
  • Other treatment options- PRP, Microdermabrasion, Chemical peels, Dermabrasion and Dermal Fillers. All these treatments are done by applying local Anesthetic cream 45 mins before treatment. which makes these treatments very comfortable and painless