Adult Acne: Myth Or Reality? (Part III)

We have been talking adult acne for the last two weeks now. The causative factors have been established and we have figured out a plan how to avoid them. We have discussed topical and oral medical plans to keep acne under control. Next step is to working on getting rid of any unsightly pigmented or scarred areas (the aftermath of acne!)
Lets commence on our last mission ..........unclog your pores once and for all and let your beautiful skin glow.

WORK ON SPOT FADE

Gone but not forgotten—zits often leave a lasting mark

Although post-inflammatory pigmentation—red spots that linger for months or even years after your pimples go away—is genetic, squeezing and picking can exacerbate the problem. The earlier you treat the spots, the better the odds they'll disappear. Apply a product containing the plant extract willowbark (a derivative of salicylic acid) and antioxidants (like vitamin C) twice a day to fade marks and boost cell turnover.

Try Babe Depigmenting cream or BDF Fade gel-4. If your spots haven't budged after six months, consider getting chemical or laser peels at your derm's office (they'll run you about 400 to 2000SR a pop); you might need two or three to get the job done.

WHY DO WE GET SCARS?

When the body has a vigorous response, almost inappropriately strong, to acne bacteria, this can lead to inflammation. Intense inflammation over time cause scarring. Some people are more prone to scarring than others. Some patients with intense inflammation can end up with significant disfiguring scars.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF ACNE SCARS

There are different kinds of acne scars: ice pick, atrophic, and hypertrophic. Ice pick scars are deep pitted scars with steep edges. Atrophic scars are pitted but have smooth borders and are not as deep. Hypertrophic scars, more common on the back and chest, are thick, lumpy scars that sit above the surface of the skin.

WHAT IS THE BEST TREATMENT FOR ACNE SCARS?

The most safe and effective treatment for the majority of patients with acne scars is the Fractional CO2 Laser. “Fractional” laser means that the laser works by resurfacing only a “fraction” of the skin at a time, leaving the surrounding area intact for faster healing. This vastly reduces the incidence of side effects and has given us the ability to treat all skin types.

LETS EXPLORE THE FRACTIONAL CO2 LASER

The CO2 fractional laser pokes tiny microscopic holes in the skin down past the epidermis and into the dermis. These holes cause new collagen generation which fills in the acne scars and creates rejuvenated smoother skin.

WHAT KIND OF RESULTS CAN I EXPECT FROM THIS LASER TREATMENT?

Most patients start to notice improvements in their skin as early as 1 week after the treatment. Continued improvements occur for the next 6 months and peak at around month 6. Most patients notice between 50-70% improvement of the condition treated. However, results vary individually.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL IT TAKE?

The vast majority of patients require 1-4 treatments to achieve the desired results. Since the treated area continues to improve for the 6 months following the laser treatment, we re-evaluate the need for any additional treatments at that time.

QUESTION MOST COMMONLY ASKED: 
IS FRACTIONAL CO2 LASER TREATMENTS SAFE TO TREAT ACNE SCARS IN DARKER SKIN TYPES?

Fractional CO2 Laser treats acne scars in patients with all skin types including Asian, Indian, and African-American skin. Though an experienced laser surgeon is needed to treat darker skin types safely.

FOR WORKING WOMEN:
WHAT IS THE DOWNTIME FOR THIS LASER TREATMENT?

The fractional CO2 laser causes a wound in the skin, which means you will have three to four days of downtime when the skin is healing. During that time you have to apply an ointment frequently to your face keep the skin greasy, which makes healing faster.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF FRACTIONAL CO2 RESURFACING?

The main risks are temporary or long-lasting light or dark spots from treatment. Very rarely scarring can still result. For these reasons it is important to be treated by an experienced laser surgeon.

I have personally tried Fractional CO2 laser and am very happy with the results.

I hope our journey exploring the myth of adult acne and its after math has been fruitful and with final treatment plans for scars and pigmentation clear and beautiful will be unveiled. Wish you all clear skin and radiant complexions!