Acne scars

Ice pick scars, which leave crater-like impressions in the skin, are more common in lighter-skinned individuals. They usually result from more severe pustule-like acne, which can cause an indented scar if not treated quickly.

Ice pick scars are best treated with dermabrasion or lasers. Dermabrasion involves manually smoothing out the scar and surrounding skin with a diamond stone or small wire brush. This kind of treatment is commonly used on ice pick scars that don't respond to topical retinoids. Results are usually seen after one treatment, but to maintain them you will need to use daily a broad-based sunscreen along with a retinoid cream. In more severe cases, a scar may have to be surgically removed before being smoothed out with dermabrasion.

As alternatives to dermabrasion, laser treatments are well-suited for treating ice pick scars. During this kind of treatment, the laser burns away the scar tissue, leaving the treated area red and tender for a few days. While it has also shown good results in the removal of pigment scars, laser treatment is not recommended for darker-skinned women because they have a strong chance of developing hyperpigmented, or dark-coloured spots. Instead, women with dark skin tones should stick to chemical peels and retinoids for the most effective results.

If you are interested in speaking with others who are having trouble with acne, log on to The Acne Support Group on www.m2w3.com or www.stopspots.org.