Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are excellent
options for those battling acne scars and pitted skin.
If only there was a magic wand to erase the signs of aging
and acne from your skin! Aging, stress, harsh weather and erratic lifestyles
all combine to dull the skin and create many problems for it. The skin becomes
lifeless, dry, develops fine lines and acne.
In fact, you can make your peace with aging, but acne is a
different story altogether. Not only does it look unseemly, it leaves behind
ugly scars when it goes away. Almost all acne leaves scars, whether it is a
little spot or a large pit on the skin. Soon, the surface of your skin becomes
undulated. This uneven complexion must be disguised under many layers of makeup
– and the marks are still visible sometimes.
There is no cure for pitted skin. The skin may take years to
restore its surface, and even then, the pits remain to some extent. Hence, more
and more people are being forced to approach their dermatologists for a lasting
acne marks removal treatment. Hearteningly, such a treatment is
available through dermabrasion and microdermabrasion.
Why dermabrasion for acne marks removal?
The procedure uses a special technique whereby tiny hard
crystals are hit on the skin’s surface at a consistent speed so that they
exfoliate the upper layer. Once the upper layer is gone, the skin can work on
creating a smooth new layer that is free of age spots and micro-bumps on the
surface. This technique is useful in removing the discoloured acne marks but
not for deeper scars. However, it should not be used on darker skin tones or
sensitive skin.
Sensitive skin and all skin types can use a technique called
microdermabrasion to remove the acne marks such as spots and surface patches.
However, laser skin resurfacing may be required to restore
the skin’s surface to a smooth level. This technique uses a laser beam to
slough off the upper layer of the skin, and this removes pits and bumps. You
must follow strict post-treatment care because skin resurfacing often leaves
the skin raw and sore for a few days. The treated skin must be allowed to heal
with the aid of doctor-approved creams and ointments, and must not be exposed
to sunlight till given permission to do so.
After about two weeks, the skin begins to look and feel
normal, but there might be some extent of peeling. The dermatologist will
schedule a follow up meeting to monitor the healing process. If the skin is
sore or painful even after two weeks, meet your doctor again.
It is better to take the dermatologist’s advice on
proceeding further with any acne marks removal treatment, and to
find out the possible risks and side effects.