Laser Treatment for Acne Scars: Procedure, Cost and Side Effects

Acne scars are usually blemishes that have been left behind by inflamed pimples or because of skin pores that have become swollen by accumulated oil, dead skin cells, dirt and bacteria. These swollen pores cause a break in the walls of the follicle. If the break is deep then the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues leading to deeper blemishes or bruises. Although the human skin owing to its repairing nature tries to repair these bruises, the results aren’t as flawless as the original texture of the skin.

Different people have different reasons for getting their acne scars treated. Some of these reasons are; improved appearance, better skin health and improved self-esteem/ confidence.

There are mainly two kinds of acne scars; hypertrophic or keloid scarring where the scars are the result of the body producing an excess amount of collagens. The second kind, atrophic or depressed scars form as a result of loss of tissues. <.P>

People who have members in the family with acne scar problems are likely to suffer from the same issue because of genetics. Also, people who do not get proper treatment for theirs acne such as pimples, blackheads etc are likely to get scars in the long run. Those who have a tendency to touch and pick their acne or their inflamed pores also stand the risk of developing scars.

One can seek treatment for their acne scars by considering chemical peel method or laser treatment or derma fillers.

Laser treatment is a painless non-invasive method that gives better results minus the discomfort that comes with surgery. In order to reduce the glaring appearance of scars this method uses a fractional laser technology which is very powerful. This technology does not affect the surrounding skin; it is a quick solution and gives you smoother, gorgeous skin.

Laser treatment makes use of micro-fine laser lights to go into the skin’s very deep layers and work to better the skin’s support system. These short pulses of light stimulate the skin’s natural rebuilding tendencies to repair the damaged tissues and cells leading to the formation of new collagens and elastins. Collagens and elastins are the very essential building-blocks of healthy skin.

There is a second kind of laser treatment in which the acne scar is completely removed. In order for this method to work a very strong laser technology is required which can also remove the layers of the skin near the scar.

The Fraxel method is the quickest one which treats the scars painlessly after applying a cream that creates a numbing sensation. During the course of the laser treatment patients will feel a gentle itching or prickling sensation. In order to give relief a chilled air blower will be used to blow at the site of treatment. This will gradually and softly bring the skin back to its normal condition.

Everyone is eligible to go for a laser acne scar removal treatment.

People who are already suffering from eczema, psoriasis and contact dermatitis should avoid going for laser acne removal as it worsens these conditions.

There are a few side effects associated with laser treatment which usually persists for a few hours or sometimes a day; these are- skin redness, swelling and irritation. However, should you experience prolonged redness, blistering or itching you are likely to suffer from skin burns, skin darkening and scarring.

After the completion of your treatment you will need to maintain your skin on a regular basis. For the first few weeks and months following treatment your skin will be extremely sensitive to sunlight. While out in the sunlight during daytime ensure to apply a sunscreen on your face and exposed skin and use an umbrella.

The recovery time is widely dependent on the healing rate of every individual and also on how well a patient adheres to post-treatment guidelines. But saying that the time taken to recover can take anywhere between a few days to a few weeks.

The cost of laser treatments for removal of acne scars are dependent on the affected area, the severity of your scars and also the type of treatment you are choosing. However, on an average you can expect to spend about Rs. 1000 to Rs. 30,000 for a single laser treatment session.

The results of the laser treatment are permanent. But like all treatments you need to follow certain guidelines and also need to keep your acne situation in check by taking proper care of your skin.

A lot of people find laser treatments expensive and they opt for alternative methods such as chemical peels, injections that remove the acne scars, fat grafting and microdermabrasion treatment methods.