If having acne breakouts wasn’t bad enough, they leave behind scars that can haunt you for life if they are not treated effectively. One of the most common questions that people ask about their skin is: How to get rid of acne scars? In Singapore, there are many types of acne treatments available in an aesthetic clinic, some of which are discussed below.
What Are the Different Types of Acne Scars Removal Treatments?
TCA Cross
TCA CROSS (Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars) is a treatment procedure that involves applying trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at high concentrations on a scar, that causes damage to the scar tissue. As a result of the injury, the body’s natural collagen production is activated and it starts filling the scar while also promoting the healing process. This treatment method is used to target deep scars such as ice-pick scars and enlarged pores, and may gradually improve their appearance with repeated sessions. Some patients may notice gradual changes after several sessions over a few months. The procedure is generally well tolerated, and may help improve the appearance of deep acne scars and enlarged pores.
Dermal fillers
Another treatment option for acne scars in Singapore is dermal filler. Dermal fillers are used to fill depressions caused by scars and may improve skin contour. The procedure involves the aesthetic doctor injecting a small quantity of a gel or hyaluronic acid into the affected depression, which helps plump up the skin and creates a smooth and even surface. The result of the injection may not be visible immediately; however, as the gel continues to dissolve in the skin over time, some individuals may observe gradual changes in scar appearance and skin fullness over time. The process is almost pain-free as a very thin needle is used to inject the gel into the affected area.
Fractional CO2 laser
Fractional CO2 laser treatment involves the use of a carbon dioxide laser to lightly injure the skin’s deep layers in order to trigger the body’s natural healing response and collagen production. When this treatment method is applied to acne scars, wrinkles and fine lines, the microscopic injuries cause the collagen to fill up the crevices. As healing progresses, some individuals may notice improvements in skin texture and tone.
Ablative laser treatment
This is the type of laser resurfacing treatment that targets the top layer of the skin and uses a high-power laser to cause controlled injury to the top layer. The damaged outer layers are, therefore, removed, and the inner smoother skin layer emerges. This process stimulates collagen production, which may support gradual skin renewal. This treatment may help reduce the appearance of scars over multiple sessions, depending on individual response.
Although the process itself may not be that painful, it results in slight redness and inflammation on the skin for the first few initial hours.
PICO non-ablative laser treatment
PICO laser targets deeper skin layers while minimising impact on surrounding surface tissue. The process works by stimulating collagen production from the deep layers, which eventually covers up the acne scars and promotes new skin growth. Since this technique targets the deep layers of the skin, it does not cause any apparent redness or inflammation on the skin post-procedure. It is a non-invasive procedure that is generally well tolerated.
Chemical peels
Chemical peels are another effective acne scar treatment option in Singapore that involve applying a certain peel to the skin. The chemicals used in these peels could be glycolic acid (AHA), salicylic acid (BHA), lactic acid, or trichloroacetic acid. Once the chemical is applied to the skin, it is left on for some time, after which it is removed. When the peel is taken off, it removes the top thin layers of the skin along the way. This may stimulate collagen production and gradually improve skin texture and tone.
Subcision
Subcision is an acne scar treatment in Singapore that can be considered a slightly invasive surgical procedure, during which the area is first numbed by applying a numbing cream. Then, a thin needle or small blade is inserted underneath the acne scar to loosen the fibrous scar tissue. As the scar tissue loosens, some individuals may notice gradual improvement in skin texture. This is a slightly uncomfortable procedure, but the application of the numbing cream makes the pain manageable.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is the process that targets raised or rough acne scars and smooths them out by using a small rotating brush. The brush comprises a rotating head with rough edges that rotates at high speed. When applied, the procedure removes the outer skin layer and may stimulate collagen production, which can improve skin texture over time. Since this process directly works on the top layer of the skin, it may become inflamed and red, and will require some downtime to return to normal.
Micro-needling
Microneedling is another minimally invasive acne scar treatment that uses multiple tiny needles to prick the skin. As the skin is damaged in a controlled way, the body’s natural healing response takes over and starts producing collagen that results in lightening of the scars. This technique is used to treat depressed acne scars effectively. It is a slightly uncomfortable process and may require some downtime for the skin to return to normal from the redness and inflammation.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a process of treating acne scars, in which liquid nitrogen is used to freeze the affected area or scar. As the scar tissue freezes, it starts to break down and falls off. As a result, new skin growth may occur, potentially improving the appearance of scars.
Can All Types of Acne Scars Be Treated?
Many types of acne scars can be managed with appropriate treatment, depending on individual assessment. Since each person’s skin type, acne scars, and severity are different, an aesthetic doctor can advise the suitable course of treatment for each individual. But more often than not, with consistent and rigorous treatment, many acne scars may show improvement in texture and tone with consistent treatment.
What Is A Good Treatment for Acne Scars in Singapore?
If you are trying to find the answer to the question: how to remove acne scars? , then the suitable treatment for acne scars varies according to each individual’s condition. There is not one particular treatment that can be identified as the best treatment, as some people’s condition may respond well to one type of treatment while some other type of treatment may be effective for others. As a general observation, the different kinds of laser treatments, chemical peels, microneedling, and TCA Cross are are commonly used options for managing persistent acne scars.
Does Acne Scar Treatment Cause Pain or Discomfort?
While each person has his/her own pain threshold, generally, acne scars treatment does not cause much pain. Treatment methods like microneedling, dermabrasion, and dermal fillers may be uncomfortable for some individuals, but they are well tolerated, and many individuals choose these treatments based on professional recommendation and suitability. The treatment sessions usually last for a few minutes, so the uncomfortable experience is just for a few minutes. If, however, you still feel pain, you may ask for a numbing cream to be applied to make the experience comfortable and tolerable for you.
Can You Remove Acne Scars Permanently?
Acne scarring is a long-term process, and its treatment also requires time and effort. Acne scars often do not resolve completely without intervention. Therefore, you need to intervene early and start treatment to ensure that they are resolved. This is indeed possible; however, it requires persistence and targeted efforts regularly. An aesthetic doctor may advise a regimen of multiple acne scar treatments depending on your particular case. Early and consistent treatment may improve the appearance of acne scars over time. Moreover, it is crucial that you do not allow any new episodes of acne to prevent any new scars from surfacing.
How Soon Can I Start Seeing Results from Acne Marks Treatment?
Each acne scar treatment is subjective, and its success depends on various factors such as the individual case, the type of skin, severity of scars, environmental or hormonal issues, and other factors. For mild cases of acne scars, some individuals may notice changes after several treatment sessions. However, for moderate to severe acne scars, the clearing of skin may take many months. But the bottom line is that if you are regular and persistent in your treatment plan. Results vary, and gradual changes may be observed across multiple sessions.
Conclusion
When it comes to achieving smoother, healthier skin, partnering with the right professionals makes all the difference. Aeon Medical & Aesthetic Centre is a medical aesthetic clinic in Singapore, and we specialize in treating skin concerns such as acne treatment, wrinkle treatment, skin pigmentation treatment, and enlarged pores treatment. Our treatments also target dehydrated skin and skin laxity, to address various skin concerns under professional supervision. You may schedule a consultation for a personalised assessment of your skin condition.
Clear Your Acne Scars With Effective Acne Scar Treatment in Singapore
If you’re struggling with acne scars, it is advised to receive acne scar treatment following professional assessment. Treatment plans are customised based on individual assessment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.