Page 52 - IDF Journal 2023

IDF – Webinar Series IDF News – Spring 2023
Surgical and Laser Treatment
of Acne Scars
Techniques, Results, Downtime, and Pitfalls
Dr Hiba Injibar
A brief overview of acne and its psychological impact
Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. Millions of people suffer from acne. In fact,
85% of 12 to 24 year-olds and 5% of adults between the ages of 20 to 50 are affected.
Multiple factors, mainly hormones, can cause the opening of the hair follicle to become plugged. When this happens, it causes the oil secreted by the sebaceous glands to accumulate under the skin. This creates the precursor lesion of acne which is the closed comedone or the whitehead. Afterwards, bacteria rapidly multiply and mild inflammation occurs, resulting in inflamed pimples. Rupture of the follicles can cause larger pimples and cysts. Acne scarring can develop later down the road, which is characterised
by an uneven skin texture with pits or depressions visible in the skin.
The psychological impact of acne shouldn’t be underestimated. Patients with acne are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Clinicians should consider prompt treatment of acne as well as referring patients for psychiatric evaluation if they notice signs of depression or suicidal ideation.
Types of acne scars
Acne scars come in all shapes and sizes. However, in general, there are two classifications of acne scarring: atrophic and hypertrophic. Atrophic acne scars (icepick scars, rolling scars and box scars) are depressions in the skin, while hypertrophic acne scars (and keloids) are raised above the skin surface. It is not uncommon for patients to have both types.
• Icepick scars – large pores that look deep and narrow.
• Rolling scars – bands of scar tissue pulling the skin down, so the surface appears rolling or uneven.
• Box scars – wider than icepicks, but not as deep.
• Hypertrophic scars – keloids and hypertrophic scars sit above the surface of the skin.
Clinicians should consider prompt treatment of acne as well as referring patients for psychiatric evaluation
if they notice signs of depression or suicidal ideation.
The urgency to treat acne before it scars
Any degree of acne, even very mild comedonal acne, can leave scars. The best way to combat scarring is prevention through treatment. Mild acne, such as whiteheads, blackheads or oily skin are treated topically. Moderate acne is treated via oral antibiotics, whereas severe, nodulous acne is treated with Isotretinoin. As dermatologists, we resort to this medication when addressing scarring acne because of its potential to cure acne and prevent further scarring.
Acne scar treatments available at Dermasurge Clinic
Prior to beginning any treatment, I always consult with the patient first. This gives me an opportunity to evaluate
their unique case and consider factors such as age, skin type, scarring, lifestyle and ability to avoid sun exposure, expectations and whether there could be any underlying psychological issues. This allows me to provide them with the best possible tailored care.
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