the resulting scars could lead to a persistent problem Although acnecan be a transitory skin problem. Mismanagement of acne scars occurs through the assumption that all scars have a similar treatment approach. In the field of clinical cosmetology, acne scars are classified based on morphology, depth, and whether they are atrophic scars or hypertrophic scars. Dr Ajay Rana, president of the Indian Society of Aesthetic Medicine (ISAM) and founder and director of ILAMED, explains how to identify your acne scar type.
Identification is, therefore, the first critical step in the treatment of this condition.
There is a significant difference between scars and post-acne pigmentation. Similarly, reddish or pink spots are post-inflammatory erythema. These conditions need a completely different treatment plan than aggressive scar correction techniques. In addition, treatment for raised scars, including hypertrophic and keloid scars, requires a completely different technique.
Treatment options will be intralesional corticosteroids, intralesional 5-fluorouracil, silicone-based therapy, and selective lasers according to the diagnosis.
“Dark brown or grey spots following an acne break-out are usually post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation instead of scarring,” said Dr Rana.
Also read | Your skin can reflect your lifestyle: Here’s what acne, dullness, and dryness may be telling you Dr Rana highlighted that ice-pick scars are scars with deep pits that go down to the dermis. Based on their depth and morphology, TCA CROSS (chemical reconstruction of skin scars), punch excision, or punch elevation are some of the approaches recommended by experts in this field. Boxcar scars have wider pits that usually have vertical walls and are much defined. Their depths differ depending on the type of scar. Further, it may be followed by other methods like microneedling , fractional laser resurfacing, or collagen remodelling techniques to correct any residual texture irregularities.
Due to the fact that they are deep with a tiny surface opening, regular shallow resurfacing will offer little results. However, the depressions in rolling scars are soft and undulating and are partially due to fibrous bands attaching the skin to deep tissue layers.
“Depending on the specific scar, treatment might involve the following approaches: fractional CO₂ and ER lasers, microneedling, radiofrequency microneedling, punch techniques, or combination therapy,” said Dr Rana. Subcision becomes very beneficial in properly chosen patients since it breaks the fibrous attachments underlying the scar, according to Dr Rana.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
