One of the most common ways of treating acne scars is by utilizing the technique of microdermabrasion. In contrast to regular dermabrasion procedures, this method is not as serious a procedure and simply is used to treat the outermost parts of the skin, rather than to promote healing deep underneath the top layers. For that reason, many with acne scars that are more superficial in nature turn to this method to reduce the appearance of these scars or get rid of them altogether.
The pros and cons of microdermabrasion treatments for acne scars
The pros of microdermabrasion are many, and include the fact that there is little pain involved and no anaesthetic is required, unlike with many other skin treatments. Also, you can get this procedure done at many locations, including doctor's offices or even spas. You can even do it at home, though many experts recommend forgoing that option. Still, many people do buy at home kits and report varying levels of success, which means it could possibly work for a lot of folks.
One of the limitations of microdermabrasion is actually related to the convenience and comfort of the technique. Because it is a simple procedure that does not intend to work deep within your skin, you will not see a great difference with severe scars, such as ice pick scars. Instead, your greatest improvements will be with scars that are raised above the skin, at the skin's level, or just below by a tiny bit. For more severe types of scars, other acne scarring treatments are preferred and recommended.
The process involved with a microdermabrasion procedure varies, as most of them used to be carried out by blasting the skin with tiny, microscopic crystals to exfoliate the outer layers of skin. Now, there are also different methods that are sometimes used, such as the diamond technique, which may not have as dramatic an effect as other types. The cost for treatment is not much per session, but since several sessions are conducted in total, the complete cost can be over $500 or even towards the $1,000 mark.
Microdermabrasion has long been one of the most popular ways of treating acne scars, and that does not look like it will change anytime soon. With so many acne sufferers ending up with minor (but noticeable) scarring that they would like to get rid of or minimize, it is no wonder that many still opt for this form of acne scarring treatment.
