Tips to Remove Pimple Scars

If you have suffered from acne, there’s a good chance that you also have acne scars. While some pimples don’t leave marks on the skin, others can leave pitted and discolored scars. You don’t have to live with acne scars, however, as there are several ways to safely remove them.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is offered by dermatologists and in some beauty salons. Your doctor or technician will scrape away the top layer of your skin using an electronic instrument that either has a motorized wire brush or a diamond-infused instrument. As the dermabrasion can be quite painful, you will be offered anesthesia prior to procedure.

After dermabrasion, your skin will be red, swollen and painful. Expect the swelling to last a few days to a week. Scabs will form over the next ten days to three weeks, and when they fall off, the newer layer of skin that appears will be much smoother. Your minor acne scars will also be much less noticeable.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a non-surgical exfoliation treatment for minor acne scarring. Your dermatologist will apply a chemical solution to your skin, causing it to burn. Your skin will blister and the top layer, or epidermis, will peel off. Your skin will be red, raw and irritated for several days. As your skin heals, however, the new layer will be smooth and the appearance of minor acne scars will be reduced.

If you have sensitive skin, avoid chemical peels, as they can cause irritation. In addition, you must always apply sunscreen to the new layer of revealed skin, as it is very susceptible to sun damage.

Laser Resurfacing

If you have deep acne scars, laser resurfacing is an effective way to remove them. Your dermatologist will use a laser beam to remove the scarred epidermis, or top layer of your skin. The laser will also tighten the next skin layer.

You may require several treatments to remove your scars. Your dermatologist will apply topical anesthesia to numb your skin prior to laser resurfacing, as the procedure can be painful. People with sensitive skin usually respond favorably to laser resurfacing, as it is not as irritating as dermabrasion or chemical peels.

Your skin will be red and irritated for three to 10 days following laser resurfacing. After your skin heals, use sunscreen to protect the new layer of skin from sun damage.