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Acne Scarring

  • AHA Peels Can Improve Acne Scars
  • Acne Scars, Unpleasant Reminders
  • What Causes the Scars
  • Alternative Treatments
  • AHA Peels Can Improve Acne Scars

    Chemical Peels such alpha hydroxy acid peels can help acne scarring in a way similar to topical retinoids. Stronger peels, such as TCA peels, are ablative and can remove the whole surface layer of the skin. In my opinion these are not first line treatments for acne scarring.

    Acne Scars, Unpleasant Reminders

    Acne is a difficult and unsightly problem. Initially we have to deal with the acne itself, then it adds to the problem by leaving scars on our skin, forever reminding us of our bad skin.

    What Causes the Scars

    Our skin has sebaceous glands, which produce oil to moisturize our skin. Acne-causing bacteria metabolize this oil and the by-product of this is irritating to the skin. As our skin becomes irritated, follicles can clog and collect debris. This may then erupt down into the deeper skin layer, the dermis, and further irritate the skin.

    The dermis identifies this debris as a foreign body to be removed. As the body naturally responds to remove this debris, an inflammatory response takes place which can result in a scar. Acne scars are similar to other scars in that they are the result of a wound which has healed, leaving collagen behind. The difference is that the scars generally occur in the skin's deeper, dermis layer.

    Alternative Treatments

    Consult with an experienced physician to determine which treatment is the best suited for your acne scars.

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    Acne may be effectively controlled with the use of chemical peels, says Aesthetician Nicole Dresnin in this clip
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    Ask The Doctor
    Q: What can a chemical peel treat?

    Chemical peels are used to provide exfoliation, skin... [Read More]

    Q: Is a chemical peel helpful for controlling acne?

    Chemical peels are sometimes helpful at controlling acne... [Read More]

    Q: Which is better, a microdermabrasion or chemical peel?
    Both aim to remove the upper skin layers. They are both used... [Read More]
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