When talking about acne scar treatments, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Some scars can be treated with consistent application of serums and creams while some scars need a more advanced treatment plan, or perhaps a combination of two or more treatments. The time needed to diminish acne scars vary depending on different factors, too – the severity of acne scars, the skin’s response to the treatment, the skill and experience of the doctor administering the treatment, and how suitable the treatment is to the patient’s condition. The good thing is that all of these factors are carefully considered when you get acne scar treatment. You can regain your confidence with Ozhean Zoey’s acne treatment program. We offer extensive consultations before getting started on any treatment to make sure that our patients get the best treatment plan for their needs. Why? Because we want to spare our patients from the agony and frustration of trying acne treatments that do not work! We are here to provide an effective solution to acne scars – no ifs and no buts, once and for all.
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Do Acne Scars Bother You?
Treating acne scars can be a long, arduous journey, but as long as you have a trusted support system like Ozhean Zoey, nothing is impossible. We are here to guide you every step of the way! Let us begin by answering three of the most popular acne scar-related questions in this article:
- Why do acne scars occur?
- How do dermatologists diagnose acne scars?
- Are home remedies for acne scar effective?
Why do Acne Scars Occur?
Whether caused by hormones or not, almost every human being goes through a stage in life where acne is prevalent. It is a very common skin condition that no one would bat an eyelash if a person of any age gets them occasionally. The most puzzling thing, however, is the fact that some people get acne scars, while others don’t. Could this be a random thing? What if there is an unknown force that is playing a twisted version of Russian roulette, where the lucky ones get acne but are exempted from getting acne scars and the not-so-lucky bunch of mortals have to deal with acne and then live with permanently blemished skin? Or could it be something that is caught in the air or the water that we drink?
The theories can get crazy and wild but there is no denying the science behind it: your genetic makeup is one of the predominant reasons why you have acne scars. If you have a close relative who is suffering with acne scarring, there is a great chance that you might, too. This is according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Another risk factor that affects scarring is aging, where the skin tends to lose collagen. Collagen is the naturally-occurring substance that is produced by the body and it is responsible for repairing the skin after a breakout. However, when the collagen produced is not the right amount – there is too much or too little collagen in the skin – it results in a scar.
It is also important to remember that acne is a caused by an inflammation and the development of scar depends on how severe and how long the inflammation is. If there is a delay in getting proper acne treatment, the risk of scarring increases.
How do Dermatologists Diagnose Acne Scars?
There is no special test needed to diagnose acne scars – a dermatologist, especially an experienced one, uses only a visual examination to provide a diagnosis. The severity of the acne scarring is also identified through this method. Currently, there are four levels of acne scarring: mild, macular, moderate, and severe. A macular acne scar is red in color and flat in shape. Mild scarring is type that can be concealed, either by facial hair or makeup. Moderate acne scarring is described as something that is visible at a normal distance; facial hair or makeup will do little to hide it. Last but not the least is severe acne scarring that is highly apparent at any distance greater than 50 centimeters. Severe acne scarring is highly visible, cannot be covered up at all, and very likely to be permanent.
Are Home Remedies for Acne Scar Effective?
Home remedies are effective to some extent. For macular and mild acne scarring, a dermatologist may recommend medication that can help lessen the appearance of scars. These medications contain specific ingredients that target not just acne scars but other related problems such as pigmentation/discoloration, skin texture, and dark spots. Some of these ingredients are:
Lactic acid: you do not have to worry if you are lactose-intolerant – this ingredient has nothing to do with milk. Lactic acid peels are used to lighten acne scars and improve its appearance and texture,
Retinoids: Serums and creams that contain retinoids can be bought over-the-counter but if necessary, your dermatologist may also prescribe something that has a high concentration of this ingredient. Retinoids are known as an agent for cell regeneration and it also lends a hand in reducing the discoloration in the area where acne scarring is present. The only downside of using this ingredient is that it makes the skin more sensitive to UV rays from the sun! So if you are using any product that has retinoids as one of its active ingredients, make sure that you are wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Salicylic acid: This ingredient is mainly used to treat active acne so you will find it in a lot of acne treatment products. Salicylic acid helps minimize swelling and redness and it is a great skin exfoliator. It is safe for every day use but if you have sensitive skin, you might experience some irritation or dryness.
A Final Word of Advice
Preventative care is always the best line of defense against acne scars. This means that you are less likely to get exposed to acne scarring if you have less acne breakouts. Do not pop, pick, or squeeze any visible breakouts, even if it is very tempting! Doing so will only irritate and cause damage to the skin, which can lead to scars. If acne scars occur, make sure to consult a dermatologist before trying any treatment – home remedy or medical. You can contact the Ozhean Zoey Medical and Aesthetic Clinic if you have questions or if you want to learn more about the acne scar treatments that we offer.
Ozhean Zoey Medical & Aesthetic Clinic
#04-10 Triple One Somerset
111 Somerset Road
Singapore 238164
+65 6235 4534
