Overview

Acne is a common skin condition that causes blemishes on the face. It is caused by a variety of factors, such as hormonal changes and clogged hair follicles. However, even after blemishes have healed, many people are left with embarrassing acne scars. These acne marks are stressful and frustrating. A dermatologist offers several treatment options that will minimize the appearance of acne marks on the face.

Step 1

Clear up acne before treating acne scars. A dermatologist can't effectively treat acne marks until the skin is clear. Partner with your physician to use topical treatments, such as tretinoin or adapalene, to get acne under control. For more severe acne, he might prescribe an oral acne medication, such as antibiotics or isotretinoin.

Step 2

Resurface the skin. This treatment is available through your dermatologist's office. She will use lasers to wound the skin. As a result, new skin grows, minimizing the appearance of acne marks. You will continue to see improvements over an 18-month time period, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Step 3

Use fillers to minimize the appearance of scarring. Fillers quickly minimize the appearance of acne scarring. A dermatologist uses a substance, typically your own fat or collagen, to fill the acne scar. Repeat the treatment every three to six months to maintain the results.

Step 4

Set up a chemical peel with your dermatologist. This treatment peels away the top layers of skin. Two weeks after the treatment, new skin will grow. Follow your doctor's post-treatment instructions and avoid the sun until skin has healed.

Step 5

Request acne surgery from your dermatologist. Surgery is one of the most effective treatments for acne scars, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Depending on the scar type, the physician will fill or raise the scar. A local anesthesia is provided and the patient stays awake during surgery.