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The Art of Preventive Skincare by Aestra / September 18, 2023 / 4 minutes of reading

Can I Treat Acne Scars with Microneedling?

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Let’s talk about acne scars. These pesky reminders are like the clingy guests at the end of a party who won’t leave, sticking around long after the acne has left. 

But why do acne scars happen? When acne invades, it’s not just a surface-level issue. It goes deep, disrupting the harmony of your skin layers.  In the aftermath of acne, your skin can be left with either too much tissue or too little. 

Acne scars do not go away entirely on their own. Reducing them requires specialized treatments like microneedling. Read on as we delve into this specific treatment.

 

What Causes Acne Scars?

Acne scars often occur as a result of the skin’s response to acne inflammation. When acne penetrates the skin deeply, it damages the skin and the tissue beneath it. As the acne clears, the body tries to repair this damage. During the healing process, the body produces collagen. If the body produces too little or too much collagen, scars can form.

Here are a few factors that can increase the risk of scarring:

  • Severity of the acne
  • Improper picking or squeezing pimples
  • Delayed acne treatment
  • Genetics which are more prone to acne scars than others

 

Types of Acne Scars 

Understanding the types of acne scars is crucial in determining the effectiveness of treatments. Generally, acne scars fall into the following categories:

  • Atrophic (Depressed) Scars
    These scars appear as small indentations in the skin. They are the result of a loss of skin tissue. Atrophic scars are further classified into:
    • Ice Pick Scars: Deep and narrow scars that extend into the dermis. They resemble small, yet sharp indentations in the skin. You’ll find them on the thinner parts of your skin, i.e. forehead and upper cheeks.
    • Boxcar Scars: Broad, box-like depressions with sharp edges that are wider than ice pick scars but can be equally deep. These scars are typically found on the lower cheeks and jaw, where your skin is thicker.
    • Rolling Scars: Caused by fibrous bands of tissue that develop between the skin and the subcutaneous tissue below, these scars give the skin a rolling and uneven appearance. Like boxcar scars, rolling scars are commonly found on the lower cheeks and jaw.
  • Hypertrophic (Raised) Scars
    These are raised scars that stand above the surface of the surrounding skin. They are formed due to the overproduction of collagen during the healing process.
  • Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
    Although not a true scar, PIH is a common aftermath of acne. The inflammatory process of acne can result in hyperpigmentation, or deeper coloration where acne has healed. It appears as flat areas of discoloration on the skin and is more pronounced in darker skin tones.

 

Microneedling: The Solution for Acne Scars?

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, has emerged as a promising solution for various types of acne scars. This minimally invasive procedure involves using fine needles to create tiny micro-injuries in the top layer of the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural wound healing processes, resulting in cell turnover and increased collagen and elastin production. 

Microneedling, a minimally invasive dermatological procedure, is increasingly recognized for its ability to improve the appearance of acne scars. This technique works by promoting the skin’s natural healing processes.

Here is some information about the science behind microneedling:

  1. Collagen Induction: Microneedling involves the use of fine, short needles to create micro-injuries on the skin. These controlled injuries trigger the body’s wound healing response, leading to increased production of collagen and elastin. The new collagen helps to fill in and smooth out the scars, making them less noticeable over time.
  2. Skin Remodelling: Through the healing process initiated by microneedling, there is a remodeling of the skin’s surface. This can help in smoothing out scars and improving skin texture.
  3. Enhanced Product Absorption: Microneedling enhances the absorption of topical treatments, such as vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, which can further aid in scar healing and skin rejuvenation.

 

What to Expect from a Microneedling Treatment

  • Consultation: A consultation with a skincare professional is essential. They will assess your skin and discuss your skin concerns and treatment goals with you to determine if microneedling is suitable for you.
  • Procedure: The skin is first cleansed and then a topical numbing cream is applied to minimize discomfort. The microneedling device, which contains many fine needles, is then gently moved across the skin. 
  • Duration: The actual microneedling process usually takes about 30 minutes.
  • Recovery: Your skin may be more sensitive post-treatment as it is in a state of repair. However, most people can still return to their normal activities right after the treatment. It is important to protect the skin and follow the aftercare instructions diligently. 
  • Frequency: For optimal results, it is recommended to undergo this treatment once a month. 

 

RF (Radiofrequency) Microneedling: The Superior Alternative?

RF Microneedling, a cutting-edge technology in skincare, offers distinct advantages over traditional microneedling. The addition of RF energy deep into the dermis amplifies the production of skin improving proteins and enzymes like collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. It addresses acne scars more effectively as the added RF energy breaks up scar matter better than just needle punctures alone.  

Other reasons why RF Microneedling should be your preferred choice include:

  1. Effective Blood Coagulation: RF Microneedling significantly reduces bleeding during the procedure, ensuring a more comfortable experience and a smoother process for you.
  2. Enhanced Safety: The thermal energy in RF Microneedling acts as a safeguard, sterilizing the area to lower the risk of infection and complications, prioritizing your safety and well-being.
  3. Fewer Sessions Required: RF Microneedling is exceptionally effective in rejuvenating and revitalizing the skin. The uniform delivery of thermal energy to all layers of the skin means you’ll see results in a shorter amount of time.
  4. Customizable: RF Microneedling can address a wide array of skin concerns, offering personalized treatment for better outcomes.


The innovative
Sylfirm RF Microneedling treatment offered by Aestra is a great example of taking the traditional approach up a notch with radiofrequency technology. Specifically designed for acne scars and melasma, this advanced treatment addresses even deep-level scars and pigmentation, providing a comfortable, minimally invasive experience with no downtime.

Ideal for not only acne scar removal but also pores reduction, lightening post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and overall skin rejuvenation, this treatment is effective in enhancing your overall skin’s radiance.

 

Conclusion 

Microneedling presents a versatile and promising option for those seeking to diminish the appearance of acne scars and enhance overall skin texture and tone. For those looking for an advanced treatment, Aestra’s Sylfirm RF Microneedling offers a specialized approach, targeting deeper scars and pigmentation with minimal discomfort and downtime. Ultimately, the choice of treatment should be tailored to individual needs and skin types, with professional consultation ensuring the best outcome.

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