1st December 2016
The Best Way to Treat Acne Scars
LIVING WITH ACNE SCARS
Active acne is an inflammatory skin condition that is said to affect over 80% of adults globally. This condition mostly affects the face, chest, back and neck but it is possible to suffer an acne breakout on any part of the body. For those of us that have suffered with acne previously, it is likely that we may be left with acne scars (acne scarring is most commonly an issue on the facial area). Living with acne scars can lower your self-esteem, knock your confidence and be a lasting reminder of how you have suffered with your skin previously.
WHAT CAUSES ACNE SCARRING?
Your body sees active acne as a ‘wound’, and when it tries to heal these wounds, sometimes there is an excess of collagen that can be built up in the dermis. If this collagen stays in place permanently, this results in the acne scars. Acne scars can fade over time (as they are an excess of pigmentation), but they often last from months to years which is why cosmetic treatments to combat this condition are so popular.
OTC TREATMENTS FOR ACNE SCARRING
If you suffer from acne scarring then you have probably tried a broad range of over-the-counter-remedies in a desperate attempt to find a solution. Topical treatments that can help to combat acne scarring include: Bio oil, supermarket ranges such as ‘Clean and Clear’, lotions and cleansers, Kojic Acid and Murad Lightening Gel, to name but a few. These topical solutions can sometimes help your condition to a certain extent, but they will not help the scarring quickly or significantly at any point. If you really want to treat your scarring in the best way possible, then you should be seeking permanent solutions such as laser treatment.
PROFESSIONAL HELP TO TREAT ACNE SCARS
If you have sought professional help for your acne scars, then you may have already visited your GP, who can prescribe basic topical solutions such as cortisone creams. These creams can help to calm and ease a scarred area that is red or inflamed, but they will not treat your scarring in the longer term. If you are serious about finding an effective treatment for your scarring, then you should see a well-qualified and experienced dermatologist.
LASER TREATMENT FOR ACNE SCARS IN HARLEY STREET
Laser treatment for acne scarring uses fractional laser technology, which can even out the skin’s surface and stimulate the production of collagen. Collagen production helps the skin heal and reform, which can simply “fill in” the acne scars. An ablative laser may also be used, which vaporizes your scar and allows smoother skin to take its place.
Dr Firas Al-Niaimi is an experienced and well-respected dermatologist based in Harley Street. If you are seeking acne scar treatment in London, then contact his private secretary now to book a consultation.
