Acne scars are one of the most frustrating aspects of acne. Severe acne can leave patients with deep marks and raised scars on the surface of the skin, and sometimes these marks can seem impossible to treat. There are various types of acne scars; they come in many shapes and colors and may be raised or depressed. Understanding the type of acne scar your skin exhibits is essential when learning ways to treat them and avoid permanent scarring.

Depressed Scars: Pitted acne scars are the most common type of scars left behind by severe acne, and these scars generally sit on top of collagen rich scar tissue. This tissue prevents the skin from repairing the deep indentation.

Boxcar Scars: Boxcar scars are characterized by an angular shape and exhibit sharp, vertical edges. Normally found on the temple or cheek, they can develop in a variety of depths. These scars may resemble those left behind after chicken pox.

Ice Pick Scars: Ice pick scars are a common consequence of inflammatory acne breakouts. These types of acne marks look deep, seeming to extend far into the skin.

Rolling Scars: Rolling scars are shallow depressions with broad bases and poorly defined borders. They occur when multiple bands of tissue develop in deeper structures of the skin’s surface and can become more noticeable with age.

Raised Acne Scars: Raised acne scars are less common than pitted scars and are often associated with inflammatory acne. They are often more obvious than depressed scars and may be more difficult to treat.

Keloid Scars: These scars form when excess collagen production causes scar tissue to form in excess, even after the wound is filled in. Collagen is produced to help heal the skin damage, but when this collagen spreads beyond the wound left behind by an acne blemish, larger scars can become raised. The severity of keloid scars varies with different skin types but are more common in patients with darker skin tones.

Hypertrophic Scars: Hypertrophic scars are noticeably raised and may have a lumpy appearance. They are very similar to keloids but tend to be smaller and fade over time and are much more common.

There are numerous treatments available to heal acne scars including laser and light therapies, subcision, dermal injections, chemical peels and more. To learn more about acne scars or if you’re interested in acne treatment in Phoenix, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology today by calling 602-867-7546 or visiting mddermsolutions.com.