What causes acne scars?

Acne is an inflammatory skin disease that affects a large majority of the population, at various times in their lives. Though it is most typically associated with puberty, it can affect some individuals into adulthood, and the scars left behind from acne can stay with individuals for years, even after breakouts stop. Acne scars are formed when inflamed lesions such as papule, pustules, or cysts form in the skin during an acne flare-up. When these lesions occur, it is because a pore and/or follicle in the skin becomes inflamed due to an excess of oil, bacteria, or dead skin cells. This inflammation causes a break in the follicle wall, and even after the body works at repairing this damage, the skin will not be as smooth as it was before the acne breakout damage occurred.

How does Restylane work for acne scars?

Restylane is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler that effectively volumizes and hydrates the skin, successfully smoothing out the skin to diminish the appearance of a number of facial imperfections. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the human body, which helps hold moisture and can help contribute to the functionality of the skin cells, helping to promote the production of vital proteins and nutrients such as elastin and collagen. Restylane is injected underneath the skin of acne scars to increase the volume and smooth out the surface appearance of the skin. It is most effective on acne scars that have created skin depressions or indentations, such as atrophic scars including boxcar scars or rolling scars.

Is it permanent?

As hyaluronic acid is a substance that is native to the body, it’s is naturally broken down by the body over time. Restylane is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler, and is therefore easily metabolized by the body, making it only a temporary treatment for acne scars. However, patients can look forward to long lasting results, with most patients experiencing effective acne scar fading for around 6 to 15 months, depending on which Restylane product is used. Restylane Skinboosters Vital is a popular choice of Restylane product to treat acne scars. However, note that the longevity of results will vary by patient depending on a number of factors, including the area in which it is injected, the severity of the scarring, the injection technique, and the age and lifestyle of the patient.

Side effects

Restylane is a very safe and effective treatment for a number of dermal issues, including acne scars. However, there are some potential mild, temporary reactions that can occur upon injection. Patients who receive Restylane for acne scars should be aware that side effects can possibly include:

  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Tenderness
  • Acne-like formations at site of injection

These side effects are temporary and will likely resolve themselves within a few days.  Restylane offers effective treatment for acne scars, with minimal side effects and reasonably durable results.