Acne, a skin condition familiar to many, often leaves behind its hallmark — scars that serve as reminders of past breakouts. For individuals looking to address these scars, there are a variety of treatments available, especially non-surgical acne scar procedures in Singapore. This article delves into the intricacies of acne scars, detailing how they form, their different types, and highlighting some of the popular non-surgical treatments.
What are Acne Scars and How Do They Form?
Acne scars result from the body’s natural healing process following a breakout. When a pimple or cyst becomes inflamed, it can cause damage to the skin and underlying tissue. In response, the body initiates a repair mechanism. If the body produces too little collagen, a depression or “pit” can form, resulting in a scar. Conversely, if the body produces an excess amount of collagen, it can lead to a raised scar.
Types of Acne Scars
Atrophic Scars: These scars are flat, shallow depressions that heal below the top layer of skin. They form when the skin does not make enough fibrous tissue (collagen) during the healing process.
Boxcar Scars: Characterized by sharp, well-defined edges, boxcar scars can be shallow or deep. They are wider than ice pick scars and are similar in appearance to chickenpox scars.
Ice Pick Scars: As the name suggests, these scars are deep and narrow, resembling the mark left behind after being punctured with a sharp instrument. They develop when an inflamed cyst creates a void in the skin’s collagen, leaving behind a column-like scar.
Rolling Scars: These scars give the skin a wave-like appearance. They are caused by bands of scar tissue that form under the skin, creating the appearance of rolling or undulating.
Hypertrophic Scars: These are raised scars that remain within the boundary of the acne lesion. They result from the skin producing too much collagen during the healing process.
Keloid Scars: These are also raised scars but grow beyond the original acne lesion’s boundary. They form when the skin overreacts and produces an excess amount of collagen.
Non-Surgical Acne Scar Procedures in Singapore
For those looking for a non-invasive approach to address acne scars, Singapore offers an array of non-surgical acne scar procedures. Here are some of the most sought-after treatments:
Rejuran S: Originating from South Korea and gaining popularity in Singapore, Rejuran S is an injectable treatment derived from salmon DNA. This polynucleotide filler not only improves skin texture but also promotes tissue repair and collagen production, making it effective in treating shallow scars.
Dermal Fillers: Dermal fillers, made from substances like hyaluronic acid, can be injected beneath the skin to raise depressed scars, giving the skin a smoother appearance. The results are immediate, though periodic touch-ups are necessary as the body naturally metabolizes the filler over time.
Pico Laser: This is a non-invasive laser treatment that utilizes ultra-short pulses to shatter unwanted pigmentation and stimulate collagen production. The Pico Laser can reduce the appearance of scars by promoting skin regeneration and improving skin texture.
Subcision: Subcision is a minor surgical procedure where a needle is used to break apart fibrous scar tissue beneath the skin, allowing the scar to rise to the skin’s surface. By releasing the tethers pulling the scar downward and promoting collagen formation, subcision can be particularly effective for rolling scars.
In conclusion, acne scars can be a distressing reminder of past skin challenges. However, advancements in dermatological procedures, especially non-surgical acne scar procedures in Singapore, offer hope to those looking to regain smooth and clear skin. It’s always essential to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best treatment option tailored to individual needs.
