Medicine for Acne Scars
Acne scars are an unfortunate side effect of an already frustrating problem. Unfortunately, it is difficult to completely rid yourself of any scar. Still, the look of most acne scars can be significantly improved with the help of some very simple treatments and procedures.
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Prevention
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Wearing sunscreen is the best thing you can do to help your scars heal correctly. Sun exposure worsens the appearance of all scars. Almost all scars will improve with time, when properly protected from the sun.
Medication
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Certain prescription medications, such as those in the retinoid family, can affect the way the skin rebuilds itself, helping to diminish the appearance of scars.
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Topical Treatments
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Over-the-counter topical solutions that include an onion extract called allium cepa have been shown in studies to help fade discolored scars.
Silicone Sheets
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Probably the most effective treatment you can find over the counter is silicone sheets. Over the course of many weeks, the sheets can soften and flatten the appearance of raised scars like those you might have from acne on your chest.
Surgery
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A dermatologist can perform surgery in which part or all of an acne scar is removed. Sometimes the edges are sewn together to help form a smaller scar that will heal better.
Fillers
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Sometimes with indented scars, a doctor will inject a dermal filler such as collagen to raise up the deepest part of the scar and make it look more even.
Laser Resurfacing
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Probably the most effective treatment for scars, laser resurfacing removes the top layer of skin, allowing new, smoother skin to form. Unfortunately, it is expensive and has a longer recovery time than many other treatments.
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