Is Dermabrasion for Acne Scars the Best Option?
Dermabrasion for acne scars is just one of the many options currently available to improve the skin’s health and appearance. In a nutshell, this treatment uses a tiny instrument which is basically a motor-driven burr. It removes the superficial layer of your skin in a way that is similar to sanding. Once this layer of skin is removed, your healthier skin cells are able to surface and this results in a smoother and tighter complexion.
Acne scars are a big concern for many people worldwide. They affect both boys and girls, men and women, and can lead to emotional problems and low self-esteem. Like wrinkles, most acne scars are visible because they are lower or deeper than surrounding skin. Light also casts shadows into acne scars which makes them even more evident. The purpose of dermabrasion is to bring acne scars to the same level as surrounding skin. This diminishes shadows and their visibility.
It’s important to understand that dermabrasion for acne scars is no miracle cure and results vary from person to person. In general, it is estimated that each dermabrasion treatment can improve the appearance of acne scarring by 20-40%. So, it is likely that you’ll have to undergo more than one treatment to get the appearance that you are looking for. And, even then, the scars may not be completely sanded away.
Dermabrasion treatment is performed in your doctors office or hospital under anesthesia or sedation. The surgery can last anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the area that is to be treated. This procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis so you can go home right after it’s completed. However, you will need to stay at home for at least 3 days after the treatment because of redness and swelling. Your doctor may also prescribe pain medication to take for 3 to 7 days after the dermabrasion. Swelling generally lasts for 7 to 14 days and you’ll need to be extra careful to apply the necessary post-surgery ointment and sunscreen. After your skin heals, it will appear sunburned and this could last up to 6 weeks. As for the results you are hoping for. . .those will start to appear from 4 to 6 weeks after the treatment. The results as far as scar diminishing are permanent. But again, if you’re unhappy with these, you may need to repeat the dermabrasion or try other options.
Dermabrasion has been used for decades to diminish the appearance of acne scars. And, like many other treatments for skin problems, one session may not be enough to get your desired results. Many professionals are switching to laser technologies as treatment options – and there are also a variety of these laser treatments to evaluate in terms of suitability for your type of skin and scar.
The above information about dermabrasion for acne scars does not substitute medical advice given by a health professional.
