Remove Acne Scars with Dermabrasion

What is Dermabrasion and what does it do for my skin?

Dermabrasion is a cosmetic technique for completely removing the upper epidermal layer of the skin by in effect, sandpapering or scalping it.

Microdermabrasion is a milder form of the same procedure where only the cells are removed from the skin’s top layer.

It is also referred to as surgical skin planning or dermaplaning. Dermabrasion is usually performed on individuals with more severe forms of acne scarring, as it goes deeper into the skin’s layers to remove skin damaged by acne.

Dermabrasion helps in leveling the surface irregularities of skin and is a procedure popular with people who wish to remove skin wrinkles, hyperpigmentations, small pox scars,  sun spots and even unwanted tattoos.

Viewed often as a skin rejuvenating process, it enhances the appearance of the facial skin, rendering it smooth and blemish free again.

If you have dark skin, it is best to discuss this acne scar removal option with your surgeon as this procedure can leave skin discoloration.

Procedure of Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion can be performed on specific areas of skin or on the entire face depending on your dermatologist or surgeon’s recommendation.

For dermabrasion, a local anesthesia is given and the area is cleansed thoroughly with an antiseptic cleansing agent. Freezing agents such as micro crystals are blown onto the numbed skin and the surgeon will apply a surgical instrument that resembles a wire brush like tool, with rough edges that rotates rapidly on the area.

As a result, the top layers of the skin is peeled or sandpapered away, leaving a blemish free and smoother surface. Skin soothing ointments and a dressing are then applied.

For dermaplaning, a procedure probably more in tune with acne scar removal, the surgeon will use a razor like instrument called a dermatome, which moves backwards and forwards, skimming or scraping off the raised tissue scars until the scar is sufficiently erased to the same level as the skin.

Remember though that this procedure is best performed on skin that do not have any active acne lesions to aggravate infections.

After the Procedure

Many people may experience pain, tingling and burning after the procedure and need to take painkillers, as the skin becomes very red and raw looking.

Under normal circumstances, regrowth of skin takes about 14 days. The new skin will appear red or pink (hence the raw look), but that should fade within 3 months after the skin has re-pigmented. Overall, healing time depends on the size and depth of the skin’s treated area.

Proper skin care is very important whilst the skin is healing. The new skin is more susceptible to infection and to harmful ultra violet rays from the sun. Your surgeon or dermatologist will advise you of a skin care regime that will minimize infection and pain.

This may include specific cleaning methods, changing the dressings regularly, and application of medicated ointment. It is highly recommended also that a high SPF factor sunscreen is applied before exposing the skin to the sun.

Remember also to eat right as a healthy bodywill mean healthy skin.

Side Effects of Dermabrasion

There are possible side effects of dermabrasion, which include a change in skin pigmentation, tissue damage (due to excessive freezing), lasting redness, scarring and increased sensitivity to sunlight.

It is therefore essential to choose a surgeon who has the right qualifications and experience. Should there be any abnormal itching or swelling after the procedure, your surgeon should be consulted immediately.

Although dermabrasion improves the look of skin, in some isolated cases it does not remove the scar completely. It is effective in removing a minor scar or a raised scar (hypertrophic scar), but sunken scars may need a different type of treatment such as collagen injections.

The effectiveness of this technique varies depending upon the age, gender, skin type, skin color, medical history and of course after care of the patient.

As with all decisions on surgical procedures, speak with a qualified profession to decide what is best for you.