Acne scars can be a distressing issue for many, especially for teenagers and young adults. Many individuals may feel confused about the types of acne scars and the corresponding medical approaches when treating acne. Today, we will delve into the various forms of acne scars and how to effectively treat each type.
Before we begin, let’s clarify the main types of acne scars. According to medical diagnoses, acne scars can be divided into four major categories: ice pick scars, boxcar scars, rolling scars, and hypertrophic scars. Each type of acne scar possesses unique characteristics and treatment requirements, making it essential to understand one’s type of acne scar as the first step in treatment.
First, ice pick scars resemble depressions carved into ice cubes and come in varying shapes. Some are shallow and can be improved with everyday skincare methods, such as using gentler exfoliation products. However, for deeper ice pick scars, more intensive treatment options may be necessary, such as TCA CROSS procedures suggested by doctors to promote the regeneration of underlying tissue. Although these methods can lead to some improvement, there are limits to what can be achieved for extreme depressions. Thus, establishing realistic expectations regarding treatment outcomes is crucial.
Next, we have boxcar scars. These acne scars feature a relatively flat base and noticeable angles on the sides, requiring targeted treatment. For shallower boxcar scars, gentle treatments like skin resurfacing may be considered. However, for more severe boxcar scars, laser treatments and microneedling radiofrequency may be necessary. These treatment methods can help stimulate new collagen production, reducing the visible depth of the scars.
The third type is rolling scars, which are primarily characterized by an intact epidermis but show irregularities on the surface due to changes in the underlying fibrous tissue. Treating these types of acne scars is generally simpler; common treatments like needling and fillers can effectively improve the appearance. However, in certain severe cases, doctors may recommend further surgical procedures.
It is worth noting that most patients may exhibit characteristics of all three types of acne scars on their faces simultaneously, necessitating a comprehensive approach to treatment. Doctors will consider the actual situation of the individual and devise targeted treatment plans based on the different types of acne scars. For instance, a patient may require simultaneous treatment for ice pick scars, the corners of boxcar scars, and the underlying rolling scars.
When treating acne scars, it is important to recognize that each person’s acne scars are unique, and treatment cannot be generalized. Mild acne scars often show significant improvement after just a few treatments, but even more severe scars may have limited improvement following multiple treatments. Therefore, establishing proper expectations and selecting appropriate treatment plans are key to ensuring effective results.