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Find an Acne Scar
Removal Specialist
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 | | The Patient’s Guide is the most respected online publication regarding acne scarring, treatments, and prevention. Written and provided by some of America’s foremost dermatologists and laser surgery experts, our mission is to provide you with unbiased, scientifically accurate information about acne scarring, scar types, underlying causes, as well as potential treatments. | | >>More About the Patient's Guide | |
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Acne Does Damage, Twice
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Acne is a difficult and unsightly problem. First it harms us by making our skin less than perfect, then adds insult to injury by leaving acne scars in its wake to remind us forever of our problem skin.
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Our Body’s Response Results in Scarring
The problem begins within our skin as it naturally produces oil in our sebaceous gland. Acne-causing bacteria metabolize this
oil and that metabolized oil is irritating to our skin. As the skin becomes increasingly
irritated by this oil our hair follicles will become plugged, thereby collecting
debris. This debris then erupts down into the deeper layer of our skin, the dermis. This debris is an intruder in the dermis, a foreign
body, which doesn’t belong there. As a result our body attempts to get rid of this
foreign body with an inflammatory response.
As our body struggles to remove this foreign debris with this inflammatory response,
a wound in our skin is the result, and we end up with a scar. Acne scarring, like
any other scarring, are the result of a wound in the skin, which then heals, leaving
too much collagen behind.
Will Scarring Get Worse Without Treatment?
Acne scars are primarily a cosmetic concern and do not worsen without treatment. However if active acne is present and no action is taken to correct it, there will be an increase in the severity and amount of acne scarring.
Scarring Prevention
The best way to prevent any acne scars from forming is to prevent more acne in the first place. Visit a dermatologist so they may evaluate your active acne and develop a course of treatment to prevent further outbreaks.
Prescription Drugs vs. OTC
Though over the counter topical treatments do work, the prescription drugs which can be prescribed by a physician are generally much more effective than the OTC products. The physician may also determine whether you need oral antibiotics for a period of time along with topical antibiotics and/or keratolytics.
Topical Treatments
There are also a number of topical products which can help the skin improve itself and improve the collagen remodeling process. Products such as Retin-A and alpha hydroxy acid which will not only improve acne but will also help stimulate new collagen formation and improve acne scarring. Also important is a strong sunscreen to prevent any sun damage to the skin as it heals.
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Learn More...
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Find an Acne Scar Removal Specialist
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Dr. Bernstein discusses acne scars and their causes in this clip.
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How Did Treatment
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ChangeYOUR
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79%
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Life?
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| of reviews werePositive |
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(43 reviews)
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3
Not a huge difference
I have been suffering from acne since I was 14. As I grew ol...[more]
Boulder, CO
May 14, 2010
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3
Not What I Had Hoped For, But Giving it Another Try
My acne scars have always been a problem for me and I have t...[more]
Orlando, FL
May 01, 2010
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4
Nonablative Laser Resurfacing It Works!
I am 52 yo fair skinned woman. From the age of 16 through 2...[more]
Elkton, MD
Apr 11, 2010
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Ask The Doctor
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