7 Best Treatments For Acne Scars
Experiencing acne breakouts more frequently than usual? Pimples are a pain, and we know all too well the experience of finding (yet, unfortunately, failing at) the perfect treatment. So we take matters into our own hands, irresistibly popping zits that have “riped” or pointing, only to leave acne scars afterwards. Now you’re probably thinking, “What treatment for acne scars are there?” “How can I remove these marks on my face and stop them from affecting my confidence?” Let us tell you right here and now that some acne scars aren’t permanent and not impossible to get rid of or get rid of completely. There’s still hope, even for deep acne scars and skin lesions. This guide discusses treating acne scars and using proven techniques from Radium Medical Aesthetics’ state-of-the-art acne treatments in Singapore. Let’s get popping (not literally)!
What Causes Acne Scars?
You probably think it’s unfair that some people have acne scars and some don’t. We could easily say that acne scars are due to genetic factors, but that’s taking things too simplistically. A more acceptable reason is that acne scarring is more frequent as we age. This is because our skin cells lose their ability to synthesise collagen. Collagen production is crucial in reducing the appearance of acne scars, like depressed or atrophic scars. With less of it, our skin loses its ability to heal faster and more efficiently. Acne scars in your youth may have gone away much quicker than acne scars at an older age.
Poor wound healing is a sign of an inflammatory condition. And failing to address this condition with proper acne scar treatments can increase your risk of developing deeper scars and other blemishes on the surrounding skin.
What Are The Different Types Of Acne Scars?
- Atrophic/depressed/rolling scars – The most common type of acne scar, rolling scars appear shallow and wide, with sloped edges. They appear more noticeable on our skin as we age.
- Icepick scars – As the name suggests, these acne scars look similar to ice picks. They come in a V-shaped appearance and can go deep into the skin. Because they often burrow, they are much more difficult to heal and may require advanced acne treatment.
- Boxcar scars – These acne scars are wide and U-shaped with pointed edges. Shallow boxcar scars are easier to fix and more responsive to acne treatment. But deeper scars are much more difficult.
- Hypertrophic scars – Hypertrophic scars don’t usually appear on the face but on the back and chest. They’re the result of too much collagen production during the healing phase.
Radium Medical Aesthetics’ Treatments For Acne Scars In Singapore
1. Tixel Acne Scar Treatment
Tixel does not use laser resurfacing, radiofrequency microneedling, or ultrasound technologies compared to other treatments. Instead, it uses thermo-mechanical ablative (TMA). TMA, or ablative skin resurfacing, allows the skin texture to heal and even out. This gives it a much smoother feel. The technology works by essentially “evaporating” skin tissues internally. It’s highly effective against acne scars and may also help reduce the appearance of pimple marks and dark spots. This leads to clearer and lighter skin. Tixel has two other modes:
- Non-Ablative – Heats the skin’s papillary dermis while protecting the superficial layer. This form of collagen induction therapy uses natural techniques to tighten saggy skin (perfect even for those with darker skin tones).
- Open Channel – Similar to the non-ablative function. The only difference is that it makes the skin more porous to ensure more efficient absorption of topical acne treatments.
2. Gold PTT Acne Treatment
Gold PTT or Gold Photothermal Therapy is the best solution for those with stubborn acne scars. It uses PTT, which is an electromagnetic radiation-powered light therapy. Gold PTT is FDA approved and is used in treating overactive oil glands in the skin. While oil or sebum is essential in skin health, overactive sebaceous glands often lead to pimples and, eventually, scarring. Gold PTT treatments help fight sebum overproduction by removing black and whiteheads. Then, an ultrasound wave applies the gold nanoparticles to the skin. After healing, you can observe benefits such as:
- Improved acne scars
- Lower rate of sebum production
- Less oily skin
- Does not damage surrounding skin.
3. AGNES Acne Treatment
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need surgery to treat acne scars. Non-surgical methods are available, and this is precisely what AGNES acne scar treatment offers. AGNES targets the root of acne scarring by destroying overactive sebaceous glands. The treatment is administered through the use of micro-needles in the skin. By preventing the sebaceous glands from producing too much oil, hair follicles are less inflamed and infected. Your acne is permanently prevented from returning. Other benefits of AGNES Acne Scar Treatment include:
- No side effects
- Little-to-no likelihood of acne recurrence
4. TCA Cross Scar Therapy
Chronic skin conditions like acne cause clogged pores and infected hair follicles. While these are temporary, they could lead to permanent scars that can affect a person’s confidence and self-esteem. TCA CROSS, or TriChloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars, are designed to combat precisely that. It works similarly to chemical peels and starts by placing high concentrations of TCA on the depressed scars using a needle. This immediately causes the skin to turn white as the chemical burns the depressed scar tissue’s surface. TCA CROSS is perfect for treating boxcar, rolling, or icepick scars and is often a relatively straightforward process (taking anywhere between 15 to 30 minutes). At Radium Medical Aesthetics, we combine our TCA CROSS acne treatment with RF (radio frequency) microneedling techniques like Genius and INFINI. These help in collagen stimulation and also facilitates the skin’s healing process. Other benefits of this acne scar treatment include:
- Improving acne scars like icepick and boxcar scars
- Localised treatment facilitates collagen production, especially for pitted, and deeper scars
5. Subcision Acne Scar Treatment
Subcision acne scar treatment is an in-office surgical procedure which involves inserting a small needle into the skin. This helps release the acne scar from the tissue and allows the skin to rise and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Subcision is the only type of acne scar treatment which can lift depressed scars, thereby improving boxcar and rolling scars. Its other advantages are:
- Smoother and lighter skin
- Improved collagen production to reduce the visibility of scarring
- Ideal in conjunction with other treatments, such as RF microneedling and laser resurfacing treatment.
6. Multi-Perfecting Enerpeel Chemical Peel
Chemical peels involve the application of a chemical solution onto the skin, which “peels” off the top layers. The result is much smoother skin once healed. Chemical peels are efficient in treating several acne conditions, not just scarring. When done by an experienced doctor, a chemical peel procedure can lead to brighter skin and more even pigmentation or colouring. If traditional chemical peels damage the skin surface, Enerpeel is less harsh and does not cause too much trauma to the skin. This allows the patient to immediately go about their day-to-day activities fuss-free. Like other acne scar treatments, Enerpeel has several benefits:
- More even skin complexion and texture
- Reduces uneven skin pigmentation
- Eliminates dead skin cells
- Has exfoliating properties
Enerpeel is perfect for all skin types, especially for those experiencing uneven skin colouring, damaged skin, wrinkles, and acne-prone skin.
7. Genius Acne Microneedling
Genius utilises RF technology to stimulate collagen and elastin production, reduce skin indentation, and make depressed scar tissue less visible. Genius is one of many FDA-approved wrinkle and acne scar treatments on this list. Using ultrafine needles causes less skin damage, minimises pain and discomfort, and speeds up skin recovery. Patients who qualify for Genius treatment can experience improved collagen and elastin production. This means fewer sessions are required to achieve their desired results.
Conclusion About Treatments For Acne Scars
Whether it’s raised, rolling, or boxcar acne scars, there is a proven treatment to address your scarring issues. Acne scars may be unsightly, but remember that it isn’t the end of the world. The right treatment can easily restore your skin’s youthful glow. Radium Medical Aesthetics offers the latest in aesthetics and acne treatment in Singapore. We ensure our customers get customised treatments that help them achieve their desired results.
Consult us now and start your journey to a better, more confident you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Treatment For Acne Scars
Can You Prevent Acne Scars?
- Avoid popping pimples
- Treat active breakouts as soon as they appear
- Wear sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
- Keep your skin moisturised