Is Dermabrasion Good For Acne Scars
Dermatologists have been using dermabrasion to treat acne scars for quite some time. As an alternative to more conventional methods of treatment, the approach has garnered considerable attention. Discover what dermabrasion is and if it might be the right procedure for your skin’s tone and texture by reading this article.
Inflammation of the skin leads to acne scarring. Inflammation, which can result in scarring, is caused by the acne bacteria and the body’s immune system working together. Many different types of scars exist, and acne scars are just one of many. Hypertrophic scars, ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars are all types of these. Acne scars are unsightly, and getting rid of them may require removing a thin layer of skin, which can be accomplished with dermabrasion, which your dermatologist may recommend.
Dermabrasion is the only invasive skin resurfacing treatment for acne scars that can be done outside of a hospital. The process requires the skilled hand of a physician who will work with you to determine the proper treatment plan to help minimize the appearance of your scarring. I’ll walk you through all the benefits of dermabrasion and answer any questions you might have in this article. Read on to learn more on dermabrasion side effects/microdermabrasion acne scars near me.
Is Dermabrasion Good For Acne Scars
Scarring from acne occurs when the skin’s natural repair mechanisms are hampered after an acne outbreak. In eighty to ninety percent of situations where scars form, collagen, the protein responsible for giving skin its structure, is damaged or lost. The most frequent form of acne scar is an indentation or depression termed an atrophic scar.
When the healing process is interrupted, it might lead to an overabundance of collagen formation. Hypertrophic or keloid scars form as a result of this condition.
Microdermabrasion is a mechanical method of exfoliation that removes the stratum corneum, the skin’s outermost and most delicate layer. This causes the body to produce more collagen as part of its natural wound-healing response. Acne scars are gradually filled in and smoothed out by this freshly synthesized collagen, which also helps rejuvenate and resurface the skin.
Both a diamond-tipped handpiece and a spray of fine crystals can be used to perform microdermabrasion. In both cases, a suction device is utilized to remove dirt, dead skin, and oil from the skin’s surface after exfoliation has taken place.
To what extent can microdermabrasion help with acne scars?
Acne scars that have flattened down or become indented can be treated with microdermabrasion, while elevated scars cannot. Because of its tendency to boost collagen formation, microdermabrasion should be avoided by those who already have elevated scars lest they become even more prominent.
Microdermabrasion only works for superficial indented scars because it encourages collagen formation in the skin’s outermost layers. Scars with a depth of more than 0.5 mm are unlikely to lighten.
Red scars on the skin’s surface
Scars of this type are usually reddish or pink in hue, and they are flat and shallow. Scars that are pink when first formed usually fade to white as they mature.
Microdermabrasion has been shown to be very helpful in minimizing the visibility of these scars.
Scars the depth of a boxcar
Indented round or oval scars with sharply demarcated corners are known as boxcar scars. The depth of these scars varies, but is usually between 0.1 and 0.5 mm. Boxcar scars are more superficial than most atrophic scars and can be treated with microdermabrasion or other forms of mild resurfacing.
various recessed scars
Rolling scars and ice pick scars are two other types of atrophic acne scars. Rolling scars leave the skin with a sloping texture and no clearly defined borders. Although icepick scars can be very narrow and deep, rolling scars are typically the widest type of acne scar.
Even though microdermabrasion won’t be able to completely erase either of these types of scars, the exfoliation process can help polish off the rough spots.
Microdermabrasion’s Positive Effects on Acne Scars
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive treatment available in dermatology offices, spas, and salons that is safe for all skin tones. When compared to more invasive methods like surgery, the price tag is much more manageable.
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive method of treating acne scars that does not necessitate recovery time like other treatments. After a session, you can go right back to your regular activities.
Pore clogging debris, dead skin cells, and extra oils are all washed away during the exfoliation process. This aids in the prevention of subsequent breakouts, resulting in less blemishes.
What to Anticipate As Part of the Operation
Any dirt or oil that has accumulated on your skin’s surface will be removed before your operation begins. Protective eyewear may be necessary if your face is being treated.
Microdermabrasion involves making up to three passes over the treatment region with the handpiece (which may be diamond-tipped or crystal-based). The operator of the device regulates the penetration depth by changing the pressure applied to the crystals or the rate at which they flow.
Sessions typically run 30-60 minutes in length. Finally, your skin is wiped clean of any lingering debris or crystals, and moisturizer and sunscreen are applied.
Ways to Get Ready
Don’t do any of these things before getting microdermabrasion:
Injectable fillers or neurotoxins three to four days prior to therapy.
To prepare for treatment, avoid exfoliation of any kind for 3–5 days.
Treatment preparation that includes one week of NSAID use
Waiting one week between tanning or waxing and treatment.
Use of Isotretinoin for Pretreatment for Six Months
Discuss any potential procedures with your dermatologist beforehand. However, patients with active skin infections or a propensity to develop hypertrophic or keloid scars should avoid microdermabrasion because it does carry risks.
If you have rosacea or telangiectasia, your doctor may suggest an alternative technique. You will need to wait for your acne to clear up before scheduling a session if you have one.
Crystal-based microdermabrasion typically employs aluminum oxide crystals, so be sure to let your physician know if you have any sensitivities to aluminum. If this is the case, your practitioner may switch to a different crystal or use microdermabrasion with a diamond tip.
Microdermabrasion Acne Scars Near Me
Microdermabrasion can be a temporary treatment for superficial acne scars including open pits, enlarged pores, picks, & boxcar acne scars. People with fair skin types respond better as microdermabrasion primarily works by improving the optical properties of skin.
How does microdermabrasion work for acne scars?
Alterations in visual quality. Mechanical exfoliation like that achieved with microdermabrasion. The stratum corneum, the skin’s outermost layer, is stripped away. This helps with light reflection and overall skin health. Similar to how a white car’s paint job hides minor dents better than a dark one’s would, makeup that reflects light helps conceal facial flaws.
Cytokine cascading is a secondary function.
Even superficial wounds to the skin’s outer layers might trigger the fibroblasts responsible for collagen production.
My preference for dermaplaning vs microdermabrasion.
First, I’d like to provide some context for our discussion. Go for it if the soothing effects of microdermabrasion put you in a state of bliss. This cannot be disputed, as there is no objective way to measure how much pleasure a soothing facial actually provides.
If you want a treatment that removes a little more of the epidermis, a skilled dermal therapist or esthetician can do it in a fourth of the time it takes for microdermabrasion.
When compared to microdermabrasion, dermaplaning can deliver results more quickly and with greater depth of penetration.
When will I start seeing changes?
Immediately. The dead skin cells are removed during a microdermabrasion treatment, making the skin smoother and more transparent.
Do microdermabrasion treatments have long-lasting effects?
No.
The effects of microdermabrasion on the skin usually endure for about 3 weeks.
The cosmetic effect of microdermabrasion gradually fades as fresh skin replaces the old. However, you can use retinoids and skin care acids to continue the exfoliation process after microdermabrasion, extending the benefits of the treatment.
Results from treatments based on your scar type and unique signature will be significantly better than those from the latest fad.
What can I do to make the microdermabrasion results last longer?
You can get good results from a gentle exfoliation utilizing skin care acids and retinol at home. Exfoliating the skin the old fashioned way might also help. Skin cell turnover can be sped up by using glycolic or lactic acid washes every other night (as tolerated) and by using good formulations of vitamin A (retinol).
Your skin’s sensitivity to the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays will increase as it recovers. Sunlight should be avoided for 24-48 hours following a microdermabrasion treatment. Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 should be worn daily for at least three weeks following each treatment.
During the healing process, you should refrain from using any topical acne products or other harsh skin care products, such as chemical peels. Moisturizers are an important part of any skin care routine since they help prevent dryness and lower the severity of any negative effects.
Potential adverse effects
Mild and fleeting, microdermabrasion’s side effects normally disappear within a day. In some cases, you may feel:
A reddening of the skin
Care and consideration
Capillary rupture or bruising
Petechiae are tiny, dark red patches that may only be seen under a microscope and suggest subcutaneous hemorrhage.
Parched complexion
In extremely rare cases, microdermabrasion can lead to an infection or rash on the skin. It has the potential to reawaken latent skin illnesses like cold sores.
Skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation may occur following therapy, especially in patients with darker skin tones. In most cases, this discoloration will go away on its own, but if it doesn’t, a dermatologist can prescribe a topical lotion or ointment to help.
Effectiveness and Outcomes
There is scant evidence that microdermabrasion is effective for erasing acne scars. The limited research done so far reveals a modest level of effectiveness, with the most promising results seen with superficial erythematous scars.
Microdermabrasion has been shown to have mixed results in treating shallow boxcar scars, according to anecdotal evidence. Some patients perceive no improvement at all, while others report a dramatic lessening of scarring and an obviously improved skin texture.
Acne scars’ ridges and corners should instantly soften after therapy. The acne scars you once had may also have faded. During the healing process, additional benefits may become apparent as collagen begins to fill in any indentations.
How many sessions do you anticipate needing?
In most cases, four to six microdermabrasion sessions are required to noticeably improve the look of acne scars, while up to 16 sessions may be necessary for more severe scarring.
Microdermabrasion is non-invasive and has little after-effects, so patients can return to their regular schedules quickly. In most cases, one or two weeks should suffice between procedures.
Dermabrasion Side Effects
Acne scars can be treated with a wide range of non-traditional options. The effectiveness of these treatments varies, and each one is associated with its own set of potential drawbacks. Always seek the advice of a dermatologist when trying to decide on a course of treatment for scarring.
In 2020, the average cost of a microdermabrasion operation was $167, as reported by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The final price tag is going to be established by the provider’s rates and your location.
Despite the disappointing reality that no scar-removal procedure exists, advances in technology are constantly being made.
What Caused My Acne to Leave a Scar?
Scar tissue is left behind after acne lesions such as pimples and cysts cause tissue damage and infection. The infection literally destroyed tissue at different levels of your skin when you had red, sensitive, and puffy pimples. Even though picking and squeezing just made the acne worse, it was all everyone could think about at the time.
Scar tissue is denser than regular skin and has a tendency to contract, thus fresh scars tend to deepen over time if they aren’t treated.
Scar tissue lacks the hair follicles and healthy blood supply of normal skin, thus it cannot mend itself. This makes getting well without major setbacks more challenging and time-consuming. However, scars CAN be enhanced!
The purpose of microdermabrasion is aesthetic. In most cases, the expense is not covered by health insurance.
Getting ready to undergo microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a less invasive cosmetic technique that does not require surgery. You really don’t have to do much in advance.
You should consult a skin care specialist to determine if microdermabrasion is appropriate for your needs. Talk about your current and historical medical conditions, including allergies and cosmetic operations.
For about a week prior to treatment, you may be instructed to refrain from tanning, the use of tanning lotions, and waxing. You might also be asked to avoid using any exfoliating masks or lotions in the days leading up to your treatment.
Makeup should be removed and the face washed before the treatment begins.
What is the procedure for microdermabrasion?
The average time for a microdermabrasion treatment in a doctor’s office is one hour. A licensed skin care expert (who may or may not be working under the supervision of a medical doctor) will normally carry this out. This is conditional on where you call home.
Anesthesia or numbing cream are unnecessary during microdermabrasion.
At your scheduled time, you can relax in a comfortable reclining chair. A handheld device will be used to spray the particles on or sand away the top layer of skin in the designated places. After the procedure, your skin will be treated with a moisturizer and sunscreen.
The FDA initially green-lighted microdermabrasion in 1996. There have been hundreds of microdermabrasion machines released since then.
Depending on the tool, the technique can be carried out in a few different ways:
The handpiece’s diamond tip
Dead skin can be carefully removed with a diamond-tipped handpiece. Simultaneously, it’ll use its powerful suction to quickly remove them.
The length of time the suction is left on the skin and the amount of pressure applied to the handpiece can both affect the severity of the abrasion. This particular microdermabrasion applicator is typically utilized around the eye area of the face.
Microdermabrasion with Crystals
A handpiece that emits crystals is used in crystal microdermabrasion to softly spray on the crystals and massage away the skin’s outermost layers. Dead skin cells are immediately removed via suction, just like with a diamond-tip handpiece.
Aluminum oxide and sodium bicarbonate are two examples of the crystals that could be employed.
Hydradermabrasion
The use of hydradermabrasion is more recent. The process is infusing ingredients into the skin while exfoliating without using crystals. Collagen formation is boosted and blood flow to the skin is increased, or so the theory goes.
Microdermabrasion’s Unwanted Consequences
Mild soreness, swelling, and redness are common microdermabrasion adverse effects. After receiving therapy, these symptoms typically disappear within a few hours.
If your skin tends to get dry and flaky, you may be given the recommendation to apply a moisturizer. There is a chance of mild bruising. The suction utilized during the treatment is mostly to blame for this.
After microdermabrasion, what to expect
After a microdermabrasion treatment, recovery time is minimal at best. It ought to be instantly possible for you to get back to your regular routine.
Make sure your skin stays hydrated and only uses mild products on it. For at least 24 hours after treatment, you should refrain from using any topical acne treatments. Sunscreen is an essential tool for skin protection. In the weeks following treatment, your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight.
After the operation, you can expect to see visible improvements right away. Your skin problems and your expectations will determine how many microdermabrasion treatments you will require.
Surgical alternatives
Microdermabrasion and other noninvasive cosmetic procedures can be used to treat acne scars without the recovery period that comes with surgical procedures. Some alternatives to surgery are:
Dermabrasion
HydraFacials, also known as hydradermabrasion,
Resurfacing using Chemicals
Microneedling
Skin fillers
Scar removal using laser
Surgical Interventions
Acne scars can be removed surgically by a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. Some frequent operations are:
Punctured earlobe
Grafting skin
Drugstore Subcision Remedy
You can exfoliate and stimulate collagen formation with OTC topicals and cosmetics. OTC medications include:
The skin’s natural ability to repair wounds is harnessed in the microdermabrasion procedure. Acne scars and other blemishes can be less noticeable after this treatment.
Microdermabrasion may be useful in treating superficial erythematous scars and shallow boxcar scars, but it is not appropriate for other forms of acne scarring. Although microdermabrasion does not work on raised or particularly deep acne scars, there are many other treatments available.
Microdermabrasion, like treatments for other skin disorders, is most effective when used repeatedly. Thankfully, microdermabrasion is a low-cost procedure that causes minimal side effects and requires no downtime.