Atrophic scars: an imperfection that can be treated
One of the most common problems patients bring to a cosmetologist is how to get rid of atrophic scars. This skin imperfection is quite difficult to correct and can significantly affect facial aesthetics. However, modern cosmetology offers methods that can restore skin beauty and smoothness, making scars almost invisible.
Indications
scars after acne;
scars after infectious diseases (e.g. chickenpox);
burns;
stretch marks.
Contraindications
pregnancy and breastfeeding period;
blood clotting disorders;
oncological diseases;
local or systemic infection at the time of the procedure.
What are atrophic scars
Atrophic scars are mini scars, but instead of being raised as usual, they are indented like “pits”. These sunken areas of skin often have a pinkish tint because blood vessels show through the thinned skin.
There are 3 severity stages of atrophic scars:
Mild.
Atrophic scars are not visible from a distance of more than 1.5 meters. Treatment is most effective at this stage.
Moderate.
Visible from more than 1.5 meters. Such scars are difficult to conceal with makeup and require longer treatment.
Severe.
Clearly visible from more than 1.5 meters. They cannot be completely removed, but treatment can significantly improve skin quality and reduce scars to a milder stage.
Causes of atrophic scars
Atrophic scars appear at the site of deep skin damage.
The appearance of such scars may result from:
acne;
infectious diseases. Almost everyone has had chickenpox. In severe cases, scars may remain. There are other diseases that can also leave scars;
burns. Scars may form due to chemical, thermal, or radiation damage to the skin;
rapid significant weight gain may cause atrophic scars on the body. They appear as light lines, commonly called "stretch marks".
Atrophic scars: treatment and prevention
There are several ways to treat atrophic scars.
The most effective of them:
Injections with stabilized hyaluronic acid gel
The gel is injected under each indentation, lifting it. The scar becomes less noticeable. Filling atrophic scars with filler gives visible results after the first procedure, but at least 2–3 sessions are needed for the best outcome.
Laser resurfacing
The laser removes the top layer of skin. After exposure, collagen and elastin production increases, allowing the skin to renew faster and gain a healthier appearance.
Chemical peel
The principle of this treatment is similar to laser resurfacing. However, peeling affects only the superficial layers of the skin. Peels are most often used in combination with other treatments or for mild stages of atrophic scars.
Scar subcision
The method is based on mechanical release of fibrous bands that pull the skin inward. The procedure is performed using a needle or atraumatic cannula - depending on the depth and location of the scar.
Before undergoing any treatment, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist or cosmetologist. The specialist will determine the most effective method for your case and check for contraindications.
And of course, it is better to prevent atrophic scars than to treat them later. How can you prevent atrophic scars?
If you have problematic skin, timely consultation with a dermatologist and proper skincare will help prevent scarring after breakouts. Never squeeze inflammation or comedones at home! Such actions almost guarantee pigmentation spots and even scars.
In infectious diseases such as chickenpox, lesions should not be damaged and must be treated carefully, which significantly reduces the risk of atrophic scarring.
Scar atrophy and improper healing may occur due to incorrect treatment of wounds and burns. Consult qualified specialists and follow all medical recommendations.
Only consult trusted and competent specialists for procedures such as mechanical facial cleansing, dermabrasion, and medium-depth peels. Improper intervention in the middle layers of the skin can also lead to scar formation.
Now you have learned more about atrophic scars: how to remove them, how to prevent them, and what causes them.
If you still have questions about scar treatment at our clinic, including service costs and products used. Or if you would like to read reviews from other clients or book a procedure, contact us via WhatsApp or the online chat on our website medstyle.kz.
You can also book a consultation with a cosmetologist at a convenient time for you. The consultation will help determine whether you have indications for scar treatment, choose the removal method, and define the course duration depending on the complexity of the issue. The cosmetologist will also recommend proper post-treatment care and guide you on skincare product pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Nyu Irina Veniaminovna
Dermatocosmetologist
Filling atrophic scars with filler gives visible results after the first procedure, but at least 2–3 sessions are needed for optimal results.
Nemtina Anastasia Sergeyevna
Dermatocosmetologist
The laser removes the upper layer of the skin. After exposure, collagen and elastin production increases, allowing the skin to renew faster and look healthier.
Lukashova Nelya Nikolayevna
Lead Doctor, Dermatocosmetologist, Nutritionist
Peels are most often used in combination with other treatments or for mild stages of atrophic scars. The principle of this treatment is similar to laser resurfacing. However, peels affect only the superficial layers of the skin.