Acne Scars

Acne scars occur as a result of acne blemishes. While scarring can happen even with the best care, it’s most likely when people squeeze or pick at blemishes in an attempt to get rid of them faster.

Typical acne scars can fall into two categories:

Atrophic (Depressed) Scars

These acne scars usually appear on the face. They are depressed, meaning sunken below the surface of the skin, and can appear as rounded or deep and narrow. They form when not enough collagen develops under the damaged skin.

Hypertrophic (Raised) Scars

More common on the back and other areas of the body, these scars rise above the skin surface and occur when an excess of collagen arrives to repair the area. Because body acne can result in significant blemishes, these scars may be very visible.

Both types of scarring respond to resurfacing treatment, so at Albuquerque Vein & Laser Institute, we use the Opus™ Plasma, a resurfacing tool with a proven track record of fading or removing acne scars.

Minor acne may leave no scars, but severe or cystic acne may leave significant scarring, especially after squeezing, picking, or other attempts at removal. Unfortunately, leaving these acne blemishes alone can be almost impossible.

Collagen plays a significant role in repairing skin trauma and forming scar tissue, which is vital for healing but can leave visible marks. Because everyone’s skin is different, some people may see severe acne scars, while others may heal with no lingering marks.

At Albuquerque Vein & Laser Institute, we use the Opus™ Plasma resurfacing to treat acne scars. This method works on both raised and depressed scars, so most people’s scars will respond to this treatment.

Laser resurfacing with the Opus™ Plasma system uses radiofrequency (RF) microneedling to create tiny areas of micro-damage to the skin. The undamaged skin around these areas immediately responds with healing factors and collagen production. The micro-damage from the treatment breaks up the scar tissue so new, healthy collagen can fill in the area with a smoother, more even appearance.

Almost anyone with acne scars of any type can be a good candidate for this treatment. Acne scarring is a very common concern and most people can see great improvements from treatment. You should make sure your active acne is under control first so you do not develop new scarring. 

You can expect to see an improvement in your acne scarring, with skin becoming more even. Depressed or raised scars will soften and become more level with the skin, making them less visible.

While these scars will not return, further acne can cause more scarring, so make sure you have a successful acne management routine in place before having your acne scars treated.