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Atrophic Scar Treatments
Atrophic scars are a type of scarring caused by a loss of collagen. These scars may form due to acne or other causes, such as chickenpox or injuries. Although they may be a persistent issue affecting self-confidence, there are various atrophic scar treatments that can help reduce the visibility of these scars. Learn more about the causes of atrophic acne scars, how to prevent them, and the available acne treatment options at CuraMed Medical and Aesthetic Clinic.
What is an Atrophic Scar?
Atrophic scars are depressed, indented scars on the skin. They form when the body cannot regenerate sufficient collagen during the wound-healing process. The incomplete collagen production, which is supposed to aid in restoring the skin’s framework, results in a structural deficit, leaving atrophic scars that appear sunken compared to the surrounding skin.
Characteristics of Atrophic Acne Scars
The appearance of atrophic scars may range from small, narrow depressions to wider, more pronounced indentations. Their depth may range from shallow to deep, extending into the dermis. The affected skin is generally thinner and more fragile than the surrounding skin due to lost tissue volume. Newer atrophic acne scars may appear red or pink due to inflammation and increased blood flow, while older scars may be lighter.
More specifically, there are three common types of atrophic acne scars, each with distinct characteristics. Identifying the type of atrophic scar you have helps recommend an appropriate treatment.
Ice Pick Scars
Ice pick scars are deep and narrow indentations that resemble small puncture marks. They often result from severe or cystic acne.
Boxcar Scars
Boxcar scars have sharp, defined edges and U-shaped indentations. They are typically caused by inflammatory or prolonged acne and may be common on the cheeks and forehead.
Rolling Scars
Rolling scars appear as wavy, uneven skin texture due to bands of fibrotic tissue that pull the skin down. They develop from long-term, severe inflammatory acne.
Causes of Atrophic Scars
Atrophic scars can be formed because of several common causes:
Severe Inflammatory Acne
Severe cystic and nodular acne is the most common cause of atrophic scarring. Due to the intense inflammatory response, the collagen and elastin fibres in the skin’s deeper layers are damaged more quickly than the body can replace them. When the acne heals, the lack of collagen to heal the skin results in atrophic scarring.
Viral Infections
Viral infections caused by the varicella-zoster virus, such as chickenpox and shingles, are known to cause blisters on the skin. While some lesions heal without noticeable scarring, some may leave more severe indentations.
Surgical Procedures
Certain surgical procedures, such as those involving significant tissue removal, may result in visible atrophic scars or indentations. The risk of developing these scars may be minimised with appropriate closure techniques by the surgeon.
Injuries
Deep cuts, puncture wounds, or severe burns are traumatic skin injuries that may destroy the skin’s underlying tissue. As the wound heals, the skin on the surface may sink, creating a depression. Timely and appropriate wound care after an injury can minimise the risk of this scarring.
Treatments For Atrophic Scars
Depending on the type of atrophic scars that you have, our dermatologist may recommend several options for acne scar removal in Singapore:
Subcision
Subcision is one of the most common treatments for atrophic scars. This treatment uses a needle to break up scar tissue beneath the skin. Subcision for acne scars may address depressed scars and help them rise, making them less noticeable. It may also stimulate collagen production, which may improve skin texture.
Chemical Peel
During a chemical peel, our doctor uses specific solutions to remove damaged outer skin, which may help promote the growth of new skin cells by accelerating cell turnover. This treatment may also help stimulate localised collagen production. For ice pick scars, our doctor may recommend a TCA peel that uses trichloroacetic acid to trigger a healing response, supporting the formation of collagen and potentially reducing the appearance and depth of the scars.
Dermal Filler Injections
Dermal filler injections contain hyaluronic acid, which may help improve the appearance of atrophic scars. This treatment targets deep, depressed scars by giving them a lift. It may be recommended for rolling scars and wider boxcar scars with relatively uniform depression.
Carbon Laser Peel
For mild to moderate atrophic scarring, a carbon laser peel may be recommended. This treatment combines the application of a specialised carbon lotion with laser technology to help exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin.
Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing is a treatment that uses heat or high-energy light to remove the outermost skin layer, along with the scarred collagen beneath it. It can also help stimulate the production of new collagen in the inner layers of the skin, supporting the growth of new skin.
BB Thulium
BB Thulium is a type of laser treatment that may help improve skin texture and manage atrophic acne scars. This treatment delivers laser energy into the upper dermis without peeling the top layer of skin. This may help resurface the skin while removing general uneven pigmentation.
Microneedling
Microneedling or collagen induction therapy uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This may trigger the body to produce new collagen and elastin fibers, which may gradually improve the appearance of atrophic scars from within the dermis.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a treatment that can be recommended for mild atrophic scars. This treatment uses a machine to exfoliate the skin’s outermost layer, helping achieve a more even skin surface.
Atrophic Scars Prevention
The key to preventing atrophic acne scars is to minimise deep inflammation and support the skin’s natural healing process. Here are the steps you can take to prevent them:
Manage Acne Early
Since inflammatory acne is a common cause of atrophic scars, it is essential to prevent scarring through early acne intervention. If you have acne, avoid picking or squeezing it, and look for skincare products with ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to help manage it. Additionally, consider professional acne treatment if your acne persists.
Implement a Healthier Lifestyle
Small lifestyle changes can also help prevent acne and its resulting scars. Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins to support your skin health, and reduce your intake of foods high in sugar to prevent acne breakouts. Get enough sleep and exercise regularly. Staying hydrated can also support skin repair and improve its elasticity.
Use SPF Consistently
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect your skin from prolonged UV exposure, as it can worsen scarring. Reapply throughout the day, and consider wearing hats or protective clothing for additional coverage if needed.
Proper Wound Care for Injuries
Atrophic scars may also result from injuries such as cuts, scrapes, or abrasions. Practice proper wound care to support optimal healing and reduce the risk of developing scars. Gently cleanse the area around the wounded skin with soap and water, then apply a topical ointment to maintain moisture and prevent infection. Keep the wound covered with a sterile dressing as it heals. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you notice signs of an infection.
Treat Atrophic Scars at CuraMed Medical and Aesthetic Clinic
Atrophic scars can be challenging to manage, but with the right treatment approach, their appearance may be significantly improved. At CuraMed Medical and Aesthetic Clinic, our doctors will assess your skin condition and recommend a personalised treatment plan based on your scar type and severity. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the available atrophic scar treatment options in Singapore.
FAQs About Atrophic Scar Treatments in Singapore
Do atrophic scars go away naturally?
The appearance of atrophic scars may slightly fade over time as the skin regenerates. However, most of them do not completely go away on their own. For a more noticeable improvement, it is recommended to get targeted treatments.
Which atrophic scar treatment is best?
There is no single best treatment for atrophic scars, as each person’s skin needs require proper treatment planning by a dermatologist. An initial consultation is recommended to identify the scarring type and depth, skin type, downtime tolerance, and any medical history.
Can I treat atrophic scars at home?
Certain skincare products, such as topical retinoids and chemical exfoliants, may help support very shallow scars. However, they may not give noticeable improvement. For moderate-to-deep scars, professional intervention is recommended. Most individuals may benefit from combining professional treatments with supportive at-home care prescribed by a dermatologist rather than using at-home treatment products alone.
How much does an atrophic scar treatment cost in Singapore?
The price varies depending on the treatment recommended by your dermatologist and the degree of scarring. Contact us for more information regarding pricing.
How long will it take to notice results?
The amount of time varies by individual, depending on the severity of the scarring and the type of treatment received. For example, laser, microneedling, and chemical peels may show improvement after 4 to 8 treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, while subcision may require 1 to 3 sessions.
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Dr. Kan Hun Yee
Headed by our director and sole founder, Dr Kan, who is not just a certified family physician by the College of Family Physician, as she is also a certified Aesthetic Physician with the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine.
She possess a number of qualifications which speaks to her knowledge:
- Medical Degree (University of Southampton, UK)
- Diploma in Family Medicine (National University of Singapore)
- Diploma in Dermatology (Cardiff, UK)
- Diploma in aesthetic medicine (American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine)
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