Acne Scarring St. Louis

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting millions of individuals. While active breakouts can be frustrating, the lasting effects of acne scars can be even more distressing. At Mid-County Dermatology, we specialize in personalized treatment plans designed to help patients achieve smoother, healthier skin. Our approach addresses both active acne and the scarring that can remain long after breakouts have subsided. Schedule your acne scarring consultation today.

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Understanding Acne Scarring

What Causes Acne Scars?

Acne scars develop when breakouts penetrate deep into the skin, leading to inflammation that damages the underlying tissue. The skin attempts to repair itself, but this process may result in either collagen overproduction, creating raised scars, or collagen loss, leading to depressions in the skin. Several factors influence scar formation, including the severity of acne, genetics, and whether blemishes were picked or squeezed.

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What Are The Types of Acne Scars?

There are several types of acne scars, each requiring a unique approach to treatment. Ice pick scars are deep and narrow, while boxcar scars appear as broad depressions with sharp edges. Rolling scars create an uneven skin texture due to tethering beneath the surface. Some individuals develop hypertrophic or keloid scars, which are raised and more common on the chest, shoulders, and back.

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How Can I Prevent Acne Scars?

While not all acne scars can be avoided, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce their severity. Seeking early treatment for acne can help prevent long-term skin damage. Avoiding picking or squeezing pimples is crucial, as this increases inflammation and worsens scarring. Using a high-SPF sunscreen daily is also essential since sun exposure can darken scars and slow the healing process.

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Acne Scarring Treatments in St. Louis

At Mid-County Dermatology, we offer a variety of effective treatments tailored to your skin type and scar severity. Our solutions help improve skin texture, even out pigmentation, and stimulate collagen production to promote long-term healing.

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Non-Invasive Treatments

For mild to moderate scarring, non-invasive options can be highly effective. Topical retinoids, such as tretinoin, encourage skin renewal and collagen production over time. Microneedling is another excellent choice, using tiny needles to create micro-injuries that trigger the body’s natural healing response. Chemical peels help exfoliate damaged layers of skin, improving discoloration and enhancing overall skin tone and texture.

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Procedural Treatments

For more noticeable scars, procedural treatments offer more dramatic results. TCA CROSS, a technique that applies high-strength trichloroacetic acid to deep scars, is particularly effective for ice pick scars. Dermal fillers instantly restore volume to depressed scars, providing a smoother surface. Occassionally we will refer our patients to our cosmetic colleagues for radiofrequency microneedling which combines traditional microneedling with heat energy to remodel collagen at a deeper level or laser therapy which helps reduce pigmentation and resurface the skin, effectively minimizing the appearance of scars.

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Surgical Treatments

For deeper scars, surgical interventions can provide permanent improvement. One of Dr. Feigenbaum's favorite techniques is subcision which involves using a special needle to break up the fibrous bands that tether rolling scars to deeper skin layers, allowing the surface to smooth out. Punch excision and punch elevation techniques remove or lift deep scars, replacing damaged tissue with healthier skin. Although we do not perform this technique in our practice, dermabrasion can also help refine skin texture by gently removing the top layers of skin, revealing a fresher, more even complexion.

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Why Choose Mid-County Dermatology for Acne & Acne Scarring Treatment?

Mid-County Dermatology is committed to helping patients achieve clear, healthy skin with a customized approach to acne and scar treatment. Our team of dermatologists stays up-to-date on the latest advancements in dermatologic care, ensuring you receive the most effective, evidence-based treatments available. Whether you’re dealing with active acne or long-standing scars, we will create a treatment plan tailored to your skin’s needs.

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Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re looking for acne treatment in St. Louis or an expert approach to acne scarring treatment in St. Louis, Mid-County Dermatology is here to help. Call us today at 314-994-0220 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward smoother, healthier skin. You can also schedule online.

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Citations:

Jennings, Tara et al. Acne Scarring—Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Education: Part I. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 90, Issue 6, 1123 - 1134.