Acne Scarring – Tips and Treatments

Anyone that has to deal with acne will tell you it is not an enjoyable process. There might only be one thing worse… the scars left behind from acne. Acne scars are a painful reminder of the pesky pimples that were once there. Those that suffer with acne scars often say that acne scarring is even worse than the acne.

Dealing with Acne Scarring

Acne scarring can be an embarrassing subject that you are forced to deal with. Your face is typically the first thing people will notice and you want it to be acne and acne scar free. There are many different acne scarring treatments available for sufferers.  Yet, the most important step you can take is to visit your dermatologist. The minute you begin to notice any scarring you should make an appointment. It doesn’t matter if you still are dealing with pimples.  Acne scarring should be addressed as soon as possible.

There are four major types of scars that can be caused by acne.  They are commonly referred to as the ice pick scars, rolling scars, boxcar scars, and hypertrophic scars.

Ice Pick Scars:

These scars inherited their name since they look like the skin was pierced with an ice pick.  This type of scar is also called the pit scar.  It seems to be the most common acne scarring.  The ice pick scar is caused by severe blemishes that destroyed the surrounding tissue.

Rolling Scars:

Rolling scars occur when fibrous bands of tissue develop under the skin and create a wave-like appearance on your once normal appearing skin.  The band will pull the skin and bind it to deeper structures within.

Boxcar Scars:

Boxcar scars are somewhat similar to ice pick scars, yet they are typically much wider. Boxcar scars occur with the blemish destroys collagen and range in severity depending on how much collagen was lost.

Hypertrophic Scars:

This type of scar is raised and is cause by and overproduction of collagen due to the blemish. The hypertrophic scars will grow larger than the original blemish or wound. They are most common found on the torso.

Benzoyl Peroxide and Acne Scarring

Benzoyl peroxide is a classic ingredient in many over-the-counter and prescription acne treatments. The active ingredient is a strong cure that has proven effective for many users around the globe. You can find it in various strengths to help kill the bacteria that lead to blemishes. Although it can cure the acne for many individuals it does not prevent scarring of any kind.

There is much debate if Benzoyl peroxide is effective in acne scarring. The best thing you can do it visit your dermatologist to discuss acne scarring treatments at the first signs of acne scarring. There are many solutions that may or may not work including, but not limited to lasers, microdermabrasian, filler and steroid injections. The decision should be made by you and your dermatologist.

The four main types of acne scarring can be embarrassing, but you have the opportunity to find and research remedies that have worked for others.