During a microdermabrasion session, you can rejuvenate your skin. The procedure is most common on the face, where atrophic scars are prone to develop. These scars are formed when your body fails to produce enough collagen to repair the wound during the healing process. Because of this, you can expect your skin to look refreshed after the procedure. It’s a good idea to choose a skilled professional for this procedure.
Punch excision
Many dermatologists recommend punch excision after microdermabrasion for inflammatory and atrophic scars. Although it may not completely eliminate the scar, it is much less noticeable than the original one. Some doctors recommend this treatment alongside other options to improve the appearance of scars. In addition to punch excision, some dermatologists pair this procedure with punch grafting, which involves replacing the removed scar with a piece of skin from behind the ear.
This procedure is an excellent option for atrophic acne scars and is an effective, low-risk cosmetic solution. Punch excision is a surgical method that involves punching a small hole in the scar and then stitching it closed. In severe cases, a skin graft from behind the ear may be needed to fill in the resulting defect. While punch excision is a relatively simple procedure, it should be done by a board-certified plastic or dermatologic surgeon.
There are many different types of punch techniques. The most common is punch excision. Postauricular skin grafts are used to replace punch-excised facial scars. The area is then treated with dermabrasion four to six weeks later. The results have been impressive in three patients, although each patient required more than 100 grafts. The punch excision procedure is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires multiple sessions.
Laser resurfacing is another option for treating atrophic scars. While laser resurfacing works to remove the scar tissue, it is more precise. Laser resurfacing is effective for shallower scars. Laser resurfacing is only effective in light-skinned people, and darker pigmentation patients may have more scarring as a result. Recovery time for laser resurfacing can take up to two weeks.
Diamond-tipped microdermabrasion
If you want to get rid of atrophic scars, you should look into diamond-tipped microdermabrasion. This treatment is a minimally invasive skin exfoliation method, using a wand with a natural diamond tip. It shaves off dead skin cells and vacuums up the particles, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and renewed. Diamond-tipped microdermabrasion for atrophic scars can be used to correct minor acne scarring, sun damage, and uneven skin tone.
This treatment aims to remove dead skin cells by exfoliating the epidermis, as well as debris that clogs pores. It is gentle and safe for the face, and it does not require special preparation. During treatment, a skilled skincare expert uses a diamond-tipped microdermabrasion handpiece to mechanically slough off dead skin cells and stimulate the production of collagen.
Microdermabrasion has few side effects when performed by a trained professional. It takes about 30 minutes for a treatment, and there is little downtime afterward. Some redness, swelling, and dry flaking may last a few days. After the procedure, you should avoid harsh products, and limit your sun exposure for several days. Diamond-tipped microdermabrasion for atrophic scars may have some side effects, but they are not severe enough to prevent you from having it done.
The treatment is an excellent choice for atrophic scars. A high-speed diamond-tipped handpiece removes dead skin, dark pigmentation, and atrophic scars. Microdermabrasion stimulates collagen production, reducing the appearance of atrophic scars. It is also highly affordable, costing just a few hundred dollars. During your treatment, you may also opt to use retinoids to lighten acne scars. They are more effective than the generic brands and may fade away on their own with time.
Aluminum oxide crystals
Aluminum oxide crystals are used in microdermabrasion, an intense exfoliation process, to remove atrophic scars. These crystals are delivered through a closed vacuum system, which creates a suction that draws the particles out of the accelerator. When they hit the skin, the particles flow back through the hand piece. When the seal is broken, the particles are no longer able to flow. Over time, microdermabrasion will stimulate new collagen and elastin production and lead to firmer skin.
While microdermabrasion can produce some noticeable results, you should remember that it’s still not a miracle treatment. You need to repeat treatments at two to four weeks, and you’ll want to visit a dermatologist if you’re experiencing discomfort. The procedure is safe and will leave your skin clearer and smoother. Generally, microdermabrasion treatments can be used daily or every other day, resulting in healthier skin.
The treatment takes less than 30 minutes. During the procedure, the doctor will cleanse your skin and apply a special moisturizer and sunscreen. This shouldn’t cause any discomfort. There’s a chance that you’ll experience some redness or itchiness during the procedure, but it’s usually only temporary. The procedure should not cause any scarring. You’ll need to continue with your normal activities for at least two weeks following the treatment.
There have been two studies examining the effects of microdermabrasion on the dermis. One looked at a 52-year-old woman who was treated with microdermabrasion. She had a history of latex allergy and reported an episode of pruritus after the procedure. The episode was controlled by systemic corticosteroids. She was prick-tested with saline, latex, and medical grade aluminum oxide crystals.
Chemical peels
If you have atrophic scars, chemical peels may be the answer. Chemical peels are a form of skin resurfacing that can help remove the surface layers of the scar. The peels are more effective on lighter skin, but the effectiveness of this type of treatment will depend on the kind of scarring and the method used. A doctor will recommend a chemical peel based on your skin type and your desired results.
Researchers recently published a review on the use of chemical peels for acne vulgaris. They surveyed medical literature and searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to find published RCTs on the topic. Using these databases, the authors identified 12 RCTs involving 387 participants. However, the quality of the included studies was low or moderate, which prevented meta-analysis.
A physician will recommend a chemical peel based on your skin type, skin tone, and skin condition. A superficial peel can be used for light to moderate skin discoloration, while medium or deeper peels can remove deeper layers of skin and improve deeper wrinkles and lines. Your doctor can choose the best chemical peel for you based on your needs and desired results. A doctor will be able to determine whether you can handle the recovery time and the risk of scarring.
Dr. Green is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with extensive experience treating patients of all skin types. She will determine the strength and type of acid peel that is right for your skin. Chemical peels for atrophic scars may involve a series of treatments to achieve optimal results. To ensure safety, Dr. Green will discuss the risks and benefits of each treatment. If you’d like to learn more about chemical peels, please contact us.
Laser treatments
There are various types of lasers that can effectively treat atrophic scars after microdermabration. These include CO2, Nd:YAG, Pulse Dye, and Er:YAG lasers. Each laser is different and the type used is based on the severity of the scar. They use a selective photothermolysis theory that targets the chromophores of the skin. By targeting these chromophores, laser treatments can reduce the appearance and discomfort associated with scars.
Researchers conducted systematic reviews of the evidence for laser treatments for atrophic scars after dermabrasion. These reviews included DPHE Report No. 11 and CD001866 from the Cochrane Database Syst Rev. The authors concluded that combination therapy may be beneficial for atrophic scarring after microdermabrasion. Although this method may be more expensive than other modalities, it is generally effective in reducing atrophic scars.
In addition to microdermabrasion, laser treatment is available for patients with atrophic scarring that has been caused by the lack of collagen. Nonablative fractional laser resurfacing (NFR) uses a 2940 nm Er:YAG laser to induce collagen growth. It also uses a carbon dioxide laser to create a thermal injury, which induces new skin cell production. Although a new treatment method for atrophic scars is emerging, a downtime of three to four weeks is required for results.
Laser treatments for atrophic scars following microdermabrasion include CO2 and Er:YAG lasers. CO2 laser produces more significant results and has less downtime. Er:YAG laser treatment is better tolerated and produces less downtime. The results from laser resurfacing are most dramatic in boxcar and shallow raised scars. Ice pick scars, on the other hand, are more difficult to treat and may require a secondary procedure.