Treatments for an Ice Pick Scar
Ice pick scars are the result of damage to the skin that has occurred due to severe acne. The inflamed areas become permanently damaged during a severe acne breakout and can leave behind deep indentations on the surface of the skin. Ice pick scars get their name because of their steep edge shape. Ice pick scars don't go away on their own, but there are several treatment options. Does this Spark an idea?
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Meet with a Dermatologist
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Prior to treatment for ice pick scars, you will need to set up an initial consultation with a dermatologist. Since the scarring is permanent, there is not much you can do to treat the ice pick scars on your own besides from covering them up with makeup and other concealers. During the first consultation, the doctor will examine the scarring and go over the recommended methods to remove them.
Punch Techniques
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Punch techniques is a grouping of methods used to get rid of scars, including ice pick scars. A dermatologist has three options when using this method. Punch replacement involves grafting new skin over the ice pick scars. The skin used for the grafting procedure is typically taken behind the ear. With punch excision, the scar is surgically removed and allowed to heal naturally. Punch elevation cuts a portion of the scar and allows it to float up to the skin's surface.
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Subcision
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Another method that a dermatologist can use to treat ice pick scars is subcision. During subcision, the scar is detached from the deeper tissue found under the skin. This will form a blood clot at the scar site and allows it to level out the skin. You may need multiple treatments in order to successfully get rid of ice pick scars using this method.
Post-Operative Home Care
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You may have bruising and swelling for several weeks when you receive dermatological treatment for ice pick scars. Use compresses as directed by your doctor to help relieve pain and swelling. You may also be prescribed a pain reliever to help with the discomfort you will feel following the procedure. Return to you doctor for follow-up visits in order to determine how well the scars have healed and whether another procedure is needed to get rid of the scarring.
Warning
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Some dermatology procedures will not work well to treat ice pick scars. Dermabrasion, which involves using a brush to resurface the skin, can sometimes make ice pick scars more noticeable. Also, although collagen injections are recommended for some types of acne scars, the method has not been proven effective on ice pick scars.
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