One of the most bothersome types of scars are acne scars. They are a constant reminder of self esteem issue stemming from adolescence, and they cannot be hidden underneath clothing.

There are many treatment options out there like laser therapy that can help minimize the appearance of scar tissue. But, today I’ll talk to you about two very popular procedures: dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. Both techniques are based on the same principle, but they are quite different.

Dermabrasion – A Traditional Acne Scar Treatment

Dermabrasion removes the upper layers of the skin to reveal healthier skin underneath. It has been around since the early 1900s when rotating rasps or burrs were used to remove skin. Throughout the mid and late 1900s this mechanism was refined until it became the apparatus we know today.

The procedure itself consists in the “sanding off” of the outer layers of the skin using a rapidly spinning disk. It requires anesthesia (local, conscious sedation of general depending on the person and procedure) and can last a few minutes or a few hours. The initial healing period is between 7 to 10 days.

During this period, the remaining skin tissue will form a scab. This scab will fall off after about a week. Afterwards (for approximately 3 months) the skin will look extremely red, so you must take precautions to protect it from UV rays and other irritating factors.

Dermabrasion is most often used as an acne scar removal treatment. However, it has also been used to remove dark spots, wrinkles and fine lines and other types of scar tissue. If you wish to use this procedure for your skin, consult with your doctor about possible side effects and precautions you should take.

Microdermabrasion – A Gentler Acne Scar Treatment Option

Microdermabrasion is not a substitute for dermabrasion. In fact, it is much more similar to deep skin exfoliation.

Microdermabrasion requires no anesthesia and can be done in a spa, salon or in a doctor’s office. In fact, you can do it yourself using a home microdermabrasion cream or a special scar treatmen cream.

Though some sources recommend against using microdermabrasion as an acne treatment, there are many people who have claimed that it works wonders.

Just like with all skin treatments, you need to be patient to see long lasting results, however, maintaining a regular routine will help speed up the process.