Have Acne Scars? How Fillers Can Help
Acne scars can be unsightly reminders of past breakouts. Plus, they can make your confidence and self-esteem take a hit.
Did you know dermal fillers, most commonly used to smooth wrinkles and add facial volume, can also be an effective treatment for acne scars?
If you’ve been searching for a solution to improve the appearance of your skin, fillers might be the answer.
At Manhattan Dermatology, with offices in New York City’s Murray Hill and Midtown East neighborhoods, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in both cosmetic and medical dermatology services.
We offer advanced treatments, including dermal fillers, to help you achieve smoother, more even skin.
Take a moment to learn how fillers can help with acne scars, what to expect from the treatment, and why consulting with a dermatologist is key to getting the best results.
Understanding acne scars and how they form
You get acne scars when breakouts penetrate your skin deeply, damaging the tissue beneath. Your body tries to repair this damage by producing collagen.
If your body doesn’t make enough collagen, the result is a depressed scar, called an atrophic scar. And if your body makes too much collagen, you end up with a raised scar, like a keloid or hypertrophic scar.
The severity of acne scars varies, but no matter the degree of damage they cause, they leave your skin looking uneven.
How fillers help acne scars
Dermal fillers are injectable treatments that add volume to your skin, making them an effective solution for certain types of acne scars, especially atrophic scars.
Fillers work by plumping up your skin from within, stimulating collagen production, and providing immediate results.
Over time, the filler helps to improve the overall appearance of your skin, making scars less noticeable.
In other words, by injecting fillers into the depressed areas, we can lift your skin, smoothing out the scar and creating a more even texture.
At Manhattan Dermatology, we’ve selected two of the most popular families of fillers available to treat acne scars: Juvéderm® and Restylane®.
Both brands offer a range of products that are effective in filling and smoothing out acne scars.
Juvéderm
Juvéderm fillers are made from hyaluronic acid. This naturally occurring substance is something your body makes to keep your skin hydrated and add volume.
They’re known for their smooth consistency and ability to provide natural-looking results. Some Juvéderm products are especially effective at treating deeper scars, offering substantial lift and support to the skin.
Restylane
Also made from hyaluronic acid, FDA-approved Restylane fillers have a slightly firmer consistency, making them ideal for precise applications, such as filling in smaller, more defined scars.
We often use Restylane Lyft and Restylane Defyne because of their ability to provide structure and lift, effectively smoothing out acne scars and improving your skin’s texture.
What to expect when getting fillers for acne scars
During your consultation, we assess your skin, discuss your goals, and determine the best type of filler for your needs. The injections are pretty quick and minimally invasive.
We use a fine needle to inject the filler into the targeted areas. While you may feel a slight pinch or pressure, discomfort is generally minimal, and a topical anesthetic numbs the area if needed.
One of the best things about getting fillers for acne scars is that your results are immediate, with your skin appearing smoother and more even right after the treatment.
Some swelling or bruising may occur, but these minimal side effects usually go away within a few days. You can expect long-lasting results with dermal fillers for acne scars, but they aren’t permanent.
Depending on the type of filler we use and the severity of your scars, results can last anywhere from six months to two years, and regular maintenance treatments help sustain the effects longer.
Determining if fillers are the right option
While fillers are a good option for many people, they aren’t the best solution for everyone. In fact, determining the right treatment for your acne scars requires a personalized approach.
For example, some patients have scars that are too deep or may need additional treatments for the best results.
At Manhattan Dermatology, we’re committed to helping you achieve the best possible results and the healthiest skin.
If fillers aren’t the right solution for your acne scars, we may recommend other treatments, such as laser resurfacing therapy.
Whether you’re considering fillers or exploring other treatment options, our team is here to help. Schedule a consultation with one of our experts online or over the phone at our office in the Murray Hill or Midtown East sections of Manhattan, New York City.