Acne scars can be a frustrating reminder of past struggles with stubborn acne. Even though they do not pose a serious threat to your general health, these scars can be damaging to your self-esteem and confidence.
This is why so many people seek treatments to lighten acne scars. The scars themselves can range from shallow marks to deep, indented pits which can be challenging to treat.
If you’ve struggled with acne scars for a considerable period, you may at least even once come across exercises as a potential remedy. But do they really help? Stay on this page to find out.
How do Acne Scars Look Like
First things first, acne scars are the result of inflammation within the skin that leads to the breakdown of collagen. When the skin’s healing process is disrupted, it can result in various types of scarring.
Unlike active acne, which consists of pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads, acne scars are the aftermath—permanent marks left behind after the acne heals. Below is a summary of different types of acne scars and how they look like;
- Ice Pick Acne Scars: These are narrow, deep scars that extend into the dermis. They look like tiny puncture marks.
- Boxcar Acne Scars: These are broad, depressed scars with well-defined edges. Your skin may develop a pitted appearance if you have boxcar acne scars.
- Rolling Acne Scars: These scars create an undulating appearance on the skin’s surface. Often, they’re caused by damage beneath the skin.
- Hypertrophic Acne Scars: These raised scars form when the skin produces too much collagen during the healing process.
- Keloid Acne Scars: Similar to hypertrophic scars, keloid scars are raised but extend beyond the original injury site. They often become larger over time.
- Dark Spots or Staining: Known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, these are not true scars. Instead, they’re a discoloration that occurs after the acne has healed.
- Perifollicular Elastolysis: This is a less common type of acne scarring. It occurs around hair follicles and is associated with loss of skin elasticity.
You get an acne scar when your skin’s healing process is disrupted. Severe acne, delayed treatment, or improper care can cause the skin to lose its structural integrity.
During the healing process, the body tries to repair the damage by producing collagen. If the body produces too little collagen, it may develop depressed scars. On the other hand, if too much collagen is produced, you may end up with raised acne scars.
Removing acne scars is not only about aesthetics. These scars can significantly affect a person’s self-confidence and mental health. Also, improving skin texture through scar removal can enhance the skin’s overall appearance and function so it looks smoother and healthier.
What is the Fastest Way to Remove Acne Scars?
When it comes to acne scar removal in Singapore, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Each person’s skin is unique, and the effectiveness of treatments can vary depending on factors like skin type, the severity of the scars, and overall skin health.
In general, laser treatments tend to deliver the fastest results for removing acne scars, particularly Fractional CO2 Laser and Pico Laser treatments. If you’re looking to remove acne scars fast, here are some treatments that your skin doctor may suggest, and what to expect.
- Laser Treatments: Lasers work by resurfacing the skin, stimulating collagen production, and reducing the appearance of scars. It may take between 6 and12 months after the final treatment to see the full extent of the improvement. Just so you know, you may need between 3 and 6 treatments to see full results.
- Fillers: Dermal fillers can be used to fill in deep scars. It can take anywhere from six months to one year to see results, depending on the type of filler used and how much your body absorb
- Skin Tightening: Techniques such as radio frequency and ultrasound can help tighten the skin. They do not necessarily treat the scars but significantly diminish their appearance. The time it takes to see results from skin tightening treatments for acne scars depends on the treatment method and the type of scar
- Dermabrasion: This method involves exfoliating the top layer of skin to remove surface scars. It may take several months to see the full extent of the treatment.
- Chemical Peel: Here, a chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove damaged layers. The purpose of this treatment is to encourage the growth of new skin. It can take multiple sessions spaced weeks apart to see optimal results, which usually appear within five to seven months.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help flatten raised scars. They’re particularly effective against keloids and hypertrophic scars. You may start to see improvements within 4 to 6 weeks after the first injection, and may need monthly injections for up to six months before the scar flattens.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): PRP therapy uses your own blood to stimulate healing and rejuvenate the skin. Platelet-rich plasma therapy can take 3–4 weeks to show results after each session to treat acne scars.
Can Exercise Remove Acne Scars?
Exercise is known to have a myriad of benefits for overall health, including skin health. Regular exercise boosts circulation, which can help nourish skin cells and keep them vital.
Increased blood flow helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin, which can aid in the healing process and improve skin tone and texture. What’s more, exercise reduces stress, which is a known factor in acne breakouts and scarring.
While exercise can promote overall skin health, it does not directly remove acne scars. However, it can complement other treatments by improving the skin’s ability to heal and regenerate.
For example, better circulation can enhance the effects of topical treatments and promote faster recovery after procedures like laser therapy or microdermabrasion. Exercise also helps in managing stress levels, which can prevent new breakouts and reduce the risk of future scarring.
When Should You Visit an Aesthetic Clinic for Acne Scar Removal?
If over-the-counter treatments and home remedies aren’t providing the desired results, it may be time to consult a dermatologist or visit an aesthetic clinic for acne scar removal in Singapore. Persistent or severe scars that affect your confidence or social interactions are strong indicators that professional intervention is needed.
Also, if your scars are worsening despite a consistent skincare routine and healthy lifestyle, it may help to seek expert care. A qualified skincare professional can provide thorough assessment and access to advanced treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
In Closing
While exercise is beneficial for overall skin health, it doesn’t directly remove acne scars. However, it plays a supportive role in enhancing the effects of other treatments and maintaining healthy skin.
If you’re struggling with acne scars, we strongly recommend seeking professional advice and explore personalized treatment options. With the right combination of treatments and healthy habits, you should be able to improve your skin’s appearance and boost your confidence.
We understand just how troublesome acne scars can get. So, we custom tailor all our treatments to suit varying needs. Drop us a line below to learn more about our treatment approach and how we can help you tame those pesky scars.
Edwin Lim Medical Aesthetic Clinic – Dr Edwin Lim
#02-12/13, Changi City Point
5 Changi Business Park Central 1,
Singapore 486038
By appointment only:
#05-51, Lucky Plaza
304 Orchard Road
Singapore 238863
+65 690042218
+65 96372218 (Whatsapp)
