I have multiple acne scars on my chest and back. What can I do?

Dr. Irwin
May 25, 2011
Hi, I have body acne and over the years the number of breakouts has diminished but has left a lot of scars which of them are mostly skin discoloration. I am dark skinned. I have tried varies things like micro crystal dermabrasion, topical cremes and glycol peels. I was not sure about the peel first but then I have tried most of the stuff out there and risked it and it left a couple of very dark spots which hasn't faded even a little bit after 2 months. I am starting to feel that the only option would be expensive laser treatments. I would really appreciate if you could offer me some advice. Thanks.

I really agree with your conclusion on this.  With most acne scarring, it is deep enough that superficial treatments like microdermabrasion, creams and glycolic peels won’t help much.   A fractionated CO2 laser (like the DEKA DOT or Lumenis Active/Deep Rx) or the even Fraxel Restore (erbium laser  – better for more shallow scars) would be the best for you.  In the long run, even though they are more expensive, you will waste less time and money and get better results.  Please see my article on Fractional CO2 lasers and Acne Scars and Other Scars in Depth.  Hope this helps.  Dr. I

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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