Acne scars are marks that remain on the skin long after an outbreak has disappeared. These marks will not heal by themselves. Often, special treatment is required to remove the scars. Scarring is very common with severe acne sufferers, especially teenagers. There are many treatments available to reduce the severity of scars both new and old.

General tips
First of all, it is very important not to pick, squeeze or disturb acne in any way. This includes white heads and black heads. By picking or squeezing, bacteria will be spread to other parts of the body causing further spread of the infection. By disturbing acne, you will increase the chances of permanent scarring to the area.

If acne is mild, simple precautions can be taken to reduce the chance of scarring. Keeping the skin clean and self-administering medication when required can do this.

Severe acne, on the other hand, cannot be treated effectively by merely self-administering medication. The services of a professional dermatologist will provide a solution. In many cases, treatment may be in the form of prescribed oral medications, topical ointments or, in the severest cases, physical methods such as draining the infected nodules. A dermatologist can also assist in the removal of black heads and white heads.

It is important to keep in mind that your dermatologist is a highly trained professional who uses sterile instruments in a controlled area when treating acne. It is not advisable to try treating yourself as it is likely you will do more harm than good.

Treatment For Existing Scars
There are very effective methods of treating scars that are a result of severe acne. The two main treatments used are:
Chemical peels. This treatment will remove the top layer of skin and assist in the rejuvenation of the cells underneath.
Laser Dermabrasion treatments remove the surface of the scar in order for a new layer of unscarred skin to replace it. Laser dermabrasion is used for very severe scarring. Numbing of the area will make the procedure less uncomfortable.

If you suffer from acne it is best to keep the area clean at all times. If the condition becomes severe or becomes painful it is advisable to seek the help of a dermatologist to assist in the treatment of acne. The best cure for unsightly acne scars is prevention.