Acne Scarring Treatments

With the widespread use of highly effective oral medications for severe acne, there are fewer patients who will end up with severe acne scarring.  However, for those who do have residual scarring from their severe acne, various surgical and laser techniques are available.

The aim of treatment in this setting is to reduce the visual impact of the scars. It is not possible to completely smooth out the skin. Bound down, depressed scars can be released and lifted, keloids can be injected with prescription medications, pits can be punch- excised and ‘uneven terrain’ can be smoothed out with laser-based techniques. Typically, multiple techniques are utilized in a treatment plan, tailored to the needs of the patient. Multiple treatments are often needed over several months.

Many treatments are available at Second Skin Dermatology. However, the Therapeutics Goods Administration in Australia have significant restrictions on how these treatments are promoted and advertised, and severe penalties are imposed with such breaches.  Please discuss your needs with your dermatologist.

Acne is a common skin problem and can affect a wide age range of patients – but particularly teenagers. Acne and Acne Scarring can have a very significant effect on a patient’s self-esteem and generally should be treated.

Some acne, if left untreated, can result in scarring. Acne scarring is hard to treat. It is much better to try and prevent it occurring in the first place.

There is a long “menu’ of treatments.  Only dermatologists can access the full range of treatments including but not limited to isotretinoin (Roaccutane). The cause of acne is multifactorial – with components from sex hormones, diet, genetics, and sometimes other factors -even “stress”.

Dr Shannon has a special interest in the connection of insulin resistance, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and acne. “Supplements” from the gym are a significant cause of acne ( at least in Dr Shannon’s experience) as are diets that contain significant amounts of free sugars, including milk, soft drinks, white bread etc. Testosterone supplements – will generally make acne much worse.First line therapy for acne would include lifestyle changes – ie less processed food, regular exercise, a gentle cleanser such as Cetaphil cleanser. The next step would include an oral antibiotic such as doxycycline. For women – the right oral contraceptive can help the hormonal balance to reduce acne. Topical retinoids such as Differin will also help.

First line therapy for acne would include lifestyle changes – ie less processed food, regular exercise, a gentle cleanser such as Cetaphil cleanser. The next step would include an oral antibiotic such as doxycycline. For women – the right oral contraceptive can help the hormonal balance to reduce acne. Topical retinoids such as Differin will also help.Regular chemical peels can also help. If these measures are unsuccessful, and there are no contraindications – then isotretinoin can be considered.

Regular chemical peels can also help. If these measures are unsuccessful, and there are no contraindications – then isotretinoin can be considered.

Isotretinoin (roaccutane)

• Is a powerful treatment for acne.
• Is a treatment of last resort.
• Can only be prescribed by a dermatologist
• Requires pretreatment blood tests, a discussion about the risks, benefits,