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is it possible to remove acne scars
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #14382
3 days ago
25

is it possible to remove acne scars - #14382

Aisha

I am trying to figure out if it’s possible to remove acne scars because I’ve been struggling with this for a while and nothing seems to be working. Like, I was a teenager dealing with breakouts, super embarassing, and now I have these horrible scars on my cheeks. They make feel really self conscious, and I just want smooth skin again, you know? I’ve tried all the topical treatments—like those vitamin C serums and retinol stuff—but I don’t see much difference. My friend mentioned that treatments like laser or chemical peels could help, but this just makes me wonder, is it possible to remove acne scars completely? I mean, could I really go from having these deep scars to clear skin? I keep hearing that some people have great success while others don’t, and it’s so frustrating. I don’t want to spend a fortune on treatments that may or may not work. Also, does anyone know if these procedures hurt? Like, are they worth the time or money? If it really is possible to remove acne scars, I’d love to know what has worked for you guys!

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Doctors’ responses

Yes, it is possible to significantly improve or sometimes remove acne scars, though the effectiveness varies based on scar type, skin type, and treatment method. Not every treatment will be suitable for everyone, and sometimes a combination of methods will yield the best results. Laser treatments, like fractional lasers, can be quite effective in treating deeper scars by promoting collagen production which helps smooth out the skin. Chemical peels are another option that can improve the texture by exfoliating the outer layers of the skin, but deeper scars often require more than surface-level treatment. Microneedling is also popular and involves the use of fine needles to stimulate skin repair mechanisms. However, results can take several sessions to become apparent and full improvement might only occur after a few months. Cost and pain are concerns; some treatments might cause discomfort and need repeat visits, potentially making them costly. Over-the-counter creams and serums, like those you’ve tried, can aid maintenance but typically don’t reach the deeper layers where scars can form. Consulting with a dermatologist is crucial for assessing which type of scars you have—atrophic, hypertrophic, or keloids—and tailoring a treatment plan suited for your skin type and goals. Be prepared to discuss your cosmetic concerns, budget, and what level of improvement is acceptable to you. In terms of discomfort, many procedures involve local anesthesia or numbing creams, and downtime can vary. Always discuss possible side effects and aftercare to manage expectations and ensure safe recovery.

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