The Cause, Development and Treatment of Acne Scars

Most people are simply unaware of how terrible acne can be. Sure people understand that it’s common, that most everyone suffers from it at some point and that it’s not easy to get rid of; however, for some individuals the battle against acne can last for decades and can result in pain, chronic inflammations and even severe scarring.

Acne scars develop most commonly from acne that occurs deep in the dermis layer of the skin. The culprit for most acne scarring is the variety of acne known as nodular or cystic. In the medical community it is often referred to as nodulocystic acne. The infection occurs deep, and the damage done leaves a depression in the skin, thus the skin surface “falls” to the bed of the scar.

The Different Kinds of Acne Scars

Because acne scars develop from different types of acne, and are found in various shapes and sizes, they are classified into different types of acne scars. The type of scar will generally dictate the type of treatment that is necessary to reduce the appearance of the scar, or to rid the skin of it completely.

Ice Pick Scars

Ice pick scars simply sound painful. They are formed from an infection in the dermis, usually of the nodulocystic variety, that leaves a long, narrow scar from the surface that looks as if it was poked with an ice pick.

Boxcar Scars

Boxcar scars are similar in depth to ice pick scars, yet they are wider at the surface. They present a wide, depressed, carved out scarring image along the surface of the skin. These are quite common in individuals who have suffered from chronic acne of the cystic variety.

Rolling Scars

Rolling scars create a wave-like surface against the scarred area. They look almost as if there are small bumps underneath the skin. These are caused when bands of tissue develop between the skin and the subcutaneous tissue below. The bands of tissue pull the outer layer of skin down towards the subcutaneous layer leaving the rolling, or wave-like feature on the skin.

Hypertrophic or Keloid Scars

Most common in men, hypertrophic, or keloid scars are due to an excess of collagen production during the skin’s reparation process. These scars occur on the skin’s surface and create a raised mass that looks more like a traditional skin scar.

Treating Acne Scars

The treatment of acne scars will depend greatly on the type of scars involved, as well as the severity of the scarring. Several treatments are currently utilized, from lasers to minimally invasive surgical procedures to more detailed cosmetic surgeries. Another variable to consider for treatment is the location of scars. Acne scars are common on the face, shoulders, chest and back, but can also be found on other parts of the body. Each case has the potential of being quite unique.

In order to pursue the best treatment for acne scars, it is necessary to consult with a dermatologist. They will be able to lay out several options, and will be able to perform the procedure and prescribe what is necessary to recover after the various treatment options, including surgery.