What To Do About Acne Scars

Acne may come and go, but for many people, the scars it leaves behind can be a lingering source of frustration. Whether you’re dealing with dark spots, pitted scars, or uneven skin tone, it’s important to know that you have options. Understanding the different types of acne scars and how to treat them can help you make informed decisions about your skincare journey.

Types of Acne Scars

Acne scars generally fall into two main categories:

• Atrophic scars, which appear as depressions in the skin, include:
  
  • Ice pick scars: narrow and deep
    
  • Boxcar scars: broad with defined edges
    
  • Rolling scars: wide with sloping edges
    
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or PIH refers to the dark spots left behind after a breakout. These aren’t technically scars, but they can still cause distress and take a long time to fade on their own.
  

Understanding the type of acne scars you’re dealing with is key to choosing the right treatment approach.

At-Home Skincare That Supports Healing

If you’re looking to start with something simple, a consistent skincare routine can help minimize the appearance of discoloration and support skin renewal.

• Exfoliating Acids: Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can help improve skin texture and fade discoloration. AHAs like glycolic acid gently remove dead skin cells, while BHAs like salicylic acid penetrate deeper into pores.
  
• Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives promote cell turnover and collagen production, which can gradually improve the look of acne scars over time.
  
• Vitamin C: This antioxidant is known to brighten skin and reduce hyperpigmentation, making it a helpful ingredient for those with dark spots or uneven skin tone.
  
• Hydration and Barrier Repair: A healthy skin barrier supports healing. Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide can soothe and strengthen your skin over time.
  

While skincare products can make a visible difference, especially with discoloration, more stubborn texture issues or deeper scarring often require professional intervention.

Professional Treatments for Acne Scars

If you’ve tried skincare and still feel like your acne scars aren’t improving, don’t be discouraged. There are in-office treatments that can significantly reduce the appearance of scars and restore smoother, clearer skin.

Laser Treatments

Laser technology has become one of the most effective options for treating both discoloration and textural acne scars. While specific laser platforms vary, the general goal is to stimulate collagen, resurface the skin, and promote healing from within.

• Ablative lasers target the outer layers of the skin, ideal for deep scarring or significant skin texture concerns.
  
• Non-ablative lasers work below the skin’s surface to boost collagen production and improve skin tone over time with less downtime.
  

Laser treatments can be customized based on your skin type and the severity of your scarring. Because these treatments are powerful and require precision, it’s important to trust an experienced plastic surgery practice or provider.

The Importance of a Consultation

Everyone’s skin is different and so are their scars. That’s why it’s so valuable to schedule a consultation before choosing a treatment. At Prive Plastics, our skilled team can evaluate your skin type, scar type, and overall goals to create a customized treatment plan that helps you feel more confident in your skin.

Be Patient With the Process

Treating acne scars takes time. Even professional treatments require a series of sessions, and your skin will continue to improve gradually as collagen builds and regenerates. By staying committed to your skincare goals and working with a qualified provider, you can see real progress.

Look and Feel Your Best with Prive Plastics in Boca Raton

Acne scars don’t have to be permanent. With the right approach, whether through thoughtful at-home care, professional treatments like lasers, you can take steps toward smoother, more even skin.If you wonder if you are a good candidate for any of our aesthetic or surgical services, start with a TeleHealth consultation. After your personalized consultation, you can look forward to treatment in a state-of-the-art office in Boca Raton. For customized treatment plans for your face and body, call Prive Plastic Surgery today at 561-717-3181.