Just when you think you’ve gotten over an acne breakout, what comes next often poses an equally stressful problem – the horrific case of acne scars. Like a soldier coming from battle, these leftover marks can haunt you long after your fight against acne is over! Thankfully, with modern-day cosmetics and technology, there are many beauty treatments that can help get rid of them significantly and, sometimes, permanently. One such solution: Microdermabrasion.
While it is primarily known as a treatment for removing dead skin cells and brightening skin complexion, many of our customers at Lovoir Skin Body & Beauty see it as a targeted solution for evening out acne scars and other skin texture issues – that is, among the many other amazing things it can for your skin! From reducing fine lines to lightening age spots, you can find a full rundown of its benefits in our ultimate guide on microdermabrasion. But if you’re dealing with acne scars in particular, then today’s article is the perfect read! We talk about how our microdermabrasion treatment works as a holistic solution – correcting those stubborn scars, as well as preventing new ones from forming. Ready to win this battle? Here’s everything you need to know!
How Acne Leads To Scarring
Before we get to the fun stuff, let’s understand how acne scars form in the first place. Ponder this: Did you know that scarring is actually your body’s way of showing you some tender love and care? Well, sort of!
Scars occur in the process of your body trying to repair any damage done to your skin tissues. Let’s say you fall off a bike or scratch a fresh rash on your skin – our body’s default reaction is to produce collagen, a protein that gives your skin structure and support. In a perfect world, collagen is meant to help heal these wounds. But unfortunately for many of us, this natural body function does not always go as planned, and we end up producing less collagen than we need. Thus, the appearance of scars left behind!
In the case of acne scars, the damage starts when your pores swell from inflammation due to the bacteria in acne. As the walls of your pores break down, inflammation inevitably affects the surrounding skin tissues, and without enough collagen, this eventually leads to long-lasting scars. Now, how it ultimately manifests on the skin varies per person and their acne condition. Some blemishes are small and tend to heal quickly with minimal marks, while some can be larger, especially if you experience several acne breakouts on the same area of your skin.
Long story short: When scars form as a result of acne, that’s actually a good sign that your skin is trying to heal itself! The problem starts when these marks and pits overstay their welcome and leave you feeling discouraged and insecure. While an instant solution would be to cover up these blemishes with makeup, the oil in these products may lead to more breakouts and bigger skin issues. And for those who frequently get acne, it could seem like a never-ending cycle! If left untreated, these scars will continue to pile up before they even get a chance to heal. I know we all loved Al Pacino in Scarface, but that term takes on a whole different meaning off-screen! Luckily for you, our microdermabrasion treatment is one of the many ways we can help you out.
What is Microdermabrasion?
If you haven’t already heard about microdermabrasion (although this is highly doubtful since it’s been around for decades!), then consider this your official introduction:
Microdermabrasion is known as one of the most effective cosmetic procedures to treat acne scars, skin discolouration, and other issues related to your skin tone and texture. The treatment involves an exfoliating device that gently buffs and suctions dead skin cells that sit atop the epidermis, your skin’s top layer.
Now, we know what you’re thinking, what’s the connection between superficial skin cells and acne scarring? Seemingly, not much, but actually, much more than you think! Here’s how microdermabrasion targets both.
How Can Microdermabrasion Help Acne Scars?
Our skin therapists at Lovoir Beauty use a diamond-tipped wand that they apply throughout your face, focusing on target areas with visible signs of scarring.
Apart from removing dead skin cells and excess oil buildup in your pores, this exfoliation process triggers the body’s wound healing response, which is basically this: It stimulates collagen production and encourages fresh cells to replace old, damaged ones.
The newly produced collagen then fills in any superficial acne scars while rejuvenating your skin in the process, and voila! The look and feel of less visible acne scars and more even skin texture!
How Many Microdermabrasion Treatments For Acne Scars?
Now, before you jump on the bandwagon, keep in mind that microdermabrasion is not an instant fix. Because it is technically abrasive in nature, many assume that its results are just as automatic and dramatic, which is actually quite the opposite. It is a mild and non-invasive treatment that carefully improves your skin over time. This gradual process ideally requires six sessions for best results, with zero to minimal downtime and side effects in between. In that regard, it proves to be a good option for nearly all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. The only limitation there is that it may not be the most effective option for people facing more severe acne scars or skin conditions – which brings us to one of our most commonly asked questions.
Is Microdermabrasion Good For All Types Of Acne Scars?
To be clear, microdermabrasion treatments may not work on all types of acne scars. Because they are, first and foremost, a form of exfoliation, they are most suitable for surface-level skin problems, more specifically depressed acne scars or atrophic scars that lie flat against the epidermis. If you have more deep-rooted issues like boxcar scars or ice pick scars, then this procedure alone will barely scratch the surface (literally) as they affect deeper skin layers. You may want to consider combining microdermabrasion with our other beauty treatments like IPL skin rejuvenation, chemical peels, or microneedling, which are more tailor-fit for deep scars.
Similarly, we do not recommend microdermabrasion for raised scars, also called hypertrophic scars. Compared to depressed scars, this type is caused by an excessive production of collagen, which may worsen with microdermabrasion. The same can be said about cystic acne or an active acne breakout. They often lead to more inflammation and skin damage if exposed to anything abrasive. In that case, we recommend treatments which remodel the lower layers of the skin such as dermapen microneedling!
All that said, if you think that microdermabrasion is the right choice for you, here’s a quick list of things to consider before you proceed with your treatment.
What To Consider Before Getting Microdermabrasion
Make sure it’s suitable for your skin type and condition.
Given the limitations of microdermabrasion on other acne scars, a crucial first step would be to analyse your specific skin condition. Apart from what we’ve listed above, those with visible capillaries, thin skin, or very mature skin may need to proceed with caution. While microdermabrasion treatments are gentle and generally safe, it is always best to be on the safe side and get a proper skin assessment – which is the purpose of our next point.
Choose the right professional service.
Seeking advice from a professional is, hands down, the best tip we can give! That includes staying away from at-home microdermabrasion kits and DIY attempts. Your skin may appear one way on the outside, but an expert’s take on your skin condition may uncover issues you never knew you had.
Take it easy for the next 24 hours.
Once we’ve given you the go signal to proceed with our microdermabrasion treatment, the only thing you need to focus on is caring for your skin after the procedure. Apart from slight tenderness and sensitivity post-treatment, there is no pain, stinging or any discomforts to worry about. They’ll quickly disappear within the next 24 hours, which means there’s no need to skip work or avoid daily activities. Just keep these 3 tips in mind, and recovery will be a breeze!
- Avoid sun exposure and public pools for the next 2 days.
- Wear sunscreen.
- Skip exfoliating for the next week.
The Bottom Line About Microdermabrasion For Acne Scars
It’s safe to say that microdermabrasion is an effective yet gentle solution for treating acne scars, so long as it is done by the right people. While it may not promise instant improvements, staying the course will eventually lead to promising results and overall healthier, fresher skin!
If you’ve decided that you want to try it out for yourself, book a microdermabrasion facial here. Soon, we’ll be offering an even better version: Hydradermabrasion, which combines both exfoliation and hydration into one effective procedure!
If you’re unsure about the right treatment to get, you can book a consultation with our skin therapists and we’ll recommend the best plan for your skin concerns. See you at the salon!
Book microdermabrasion today!
Visit our Beauty Salon & Day Spa at Lovoir The Crossing:
