Acne can leave your skin with scars and an uneven skin tone, but there are several skin rejuvenation treatments available to help reduce the side effects of acne, leaving your skin smoother and healthier. If you’re on a budget, you can invest in
chemical peels, microdermabrasion or
laser skin resurfacing treatments that help to reduce blemishes and also promote the natural healing process. Here are some of the most affordable acne scar treatments available:
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are among the least aggressive of acne scar treatments and promise gradual results. These peels help to reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes, and can also help to even out your skin tone. Light chemical peels may work for skin that is still experiencing constant breakouts, while medium to deep chemical peels may be more effective for skin that has healed completely from acne. These peels can be performed several weeks apart to slowly clear up the skin and leave it more toned and healthy-looking.
Chemical peels are performed at most medical spas and can cost between $60 to $120+ depending on the type of peel performed. Common peels for acne and acne-prone skin include the Jessner peel, the Sensi peel and the Vi Peel. The downtime varies depending on the type of peel performed, and in most cases, you will experience some flaking and dryness of the skin a few days after the treatment.
Microdermabrasion
The average cost of
microdermabrasion in the United States ranges between $100 to $150+ depending on the location. The price may be higher if there is a chemical peel included with the treatment. Microdermabrasion can help to reduce the appearance of acne scars, improve your skin tone and increase collagen production so that your skin appears firmer and more resilient. Microdermabrasion treatments can also help reduce the risk of breakouts because the pores are kept clear.
There is no downtime involved with microdermabrasion but some people may experience redness and swelling of the skin shortly after the treatment. The skin typically recovers within 24 to 48 hours.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing is designed to eliminate fine lines, reduce the appearance of acne scars and eliminate the effects of sun damage. One of these treatments every six months can help your skin heal from acne and also reduce unsightly blemishes and scars permanently.
Laser skin resurfacing is among the more aggressive skin rejuvenation treatments available, and can cost between $400 to $600+ per treatment. Many medical spas and cosmetic dermatology centers offer patient financing programs to make this procedure more affordable for most patients, and some offer interest-free repayment programs for your convenience. The only drawback of this procedure is the downtime involved. Most people require at least a few days to recover after their treatment, and the entire healing process can take up to three weeks.
Managing acne scars doesn’t have to cost a fortune and you have several options to choose from. From chemical peels to laser skin resurfacing, you can start clearing up your skin painlessly. Learn more about
acne scar treatments in our information guide, or consult with a cosmetic dermatologist in your area for more information
Published: 09/25/2009, Last Updated: 09/25/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics obtained from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.