Acne scars

This acne scars part of Acne.org is the pooling of information from the local medical library and public library regarding acne scar treatments. As it turns out, scar treatments can basically be broken down into six categories which I list in the table below. For information on other treatments and frequently asked questions, see this post from OursFan, a moderator on the Acne Scars message board.

ACNE SCAR TREATMENTS
Name (click for info)	Best for this type of scarring	Approximate Cost (check with your insurance carrier to see if it is covered)
Dermabrasion	Shallow imperfections rather than "ice pick" scarring	$1500.00 per treatment (repeated treatments sometimes necessary)
Laser Resurfacing	Shallow imperfections rather than "ice pick" scarring	$3000.00 per treatment (repeated treatments sometimes necessary)
Chemical Peels	Very mild acne scarring	$750.00 per treatment (must often be repeated several times)
Punch techniques	"ice pick" scars - similar to deep chickenpox scars	Depends on number needed, about $50 per punch.
Subcision	Most kinds of scars	Ask your doc for pricing. (may require multiple treatments)
Augmentation	Deeper scars	$300-$700 per cubic centimeter (cc) for collagen. This will cover different size areas depending on the patient. Ask your doc for more accurate pricing. Results are temporary, so it must be repeated.

As you read about the treatments, keep these things in mind:

People experience different types of scarring from acne, and every person is left with very different facial topography. Therefore, acne scar treatment must be addressed on a case by case basis. No single treatment is right for everyone. You and your dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon will have to decide what is right for your type of scarring.
Very often, several of the treatments listed above will have to be combined to produce the best results. For example, punch techniques followed by dermabrasion is common. In another example, subcision may precede augmentation. It is not uncommon to see more than two procedures combined as well.
Basic research into how acne scars are formed and how they respond to treatment is very limited. It has not been a well treated condition in the past. However, new treatments are helping.

Make sure you see before and after pictures of your doctor's previous patients, and be realistic about results.

Acne Scars Message Board		Other Frequently Asked Questions
Share your thoughts and experiences regarding scar treatments.		FAQ and info on other scar treatments. Thanks to OursFan, a moderator on the Acne Scars board for making this post.