Can Dermatologists Treat Acne Scars?

Dermatologists have several methods for treating acne scarring. Learn about the top techniques that dermatologists use to treat acne scars, such as dermabrasion, surgery, chemical peels and prescription creams.

Tretinoin Creams

Prescription creams like Retin-A, Renova and Avita contain tretinoin, a concentrated form of vitamin A. Topical applications of vitamin A speeds up the skin's resurfacing actions. In the beginning, this can cause the skin to become overly sensitive to sunlight, inflamed and irritated. Over time, however, skin that is treated with high doses of vitamin A will be rebuilt at the surface level, evening skin tones and with a smoother surface. These are usually prescription cremes that are applied daily and sometimes contain a sunscreen.

Hydroxy Acids (Chemical Peel)

Alpha-Hydroxy acids and Beta-Hydroxy acids can be applied topically, to encourage the growth of new skin cells and restore the surface of the skin. These can be applied in very high concentrations in the dermatologist's office or prescribed in lower concentrations for at-home use, up to twice a week.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a technique that involves sanding down the top layers of skin to remove deep scars from acne. Some types of scarring aren't candidates for dermabrasion and, if done incorrectly, can lead to more scarring. Generally, dermabrasion is performed every 2 weeks in conjunction with a skin resurfacing ointment. Microdermabrasion can be performed up to twice a week.

Dermal Fillers

Injecting the skin with filling substances like collagen, fat, polytheyl-methacrylate microspheres or botox can temporarily "puff up" the skin and lead to a smoother appearance, but are by no means permanent.

Surgical Repair of Acne Scars

Deep acne scarring may be treated by surgery. A tool is inserted and the scarred tissue is cut away. Each acne scar is then stitched closed and a new, level scar is formed, which can then be removed with creams or laser treatment.