Dermabrasion and dermaplaning for acne scars

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Dermabrasion and dermaplaning for acne scars

In dermabrasion, the doctor scrapes away the outermost layer of skin with a swirling wire brush. In dermaplaning, the surgeon uses a handheld instrument called a dermatome, a motorized blade that skims off the outer layer of skin around the acne scars.

Dermabrasion and dermaplaning are usually done with local anesthesia combined with a sedative, although general anesthesia can be used. Sometimes doctors use a numbing spray, such as Freon, along with or instead of local anesthesia. Often these procedures are done in stages, treating only one part of the face at a time.

Dermabrasion is done by a specially trained health professional, usually a dermatologic or plastic surgeon.

After dermabrasion or dermaplaning, you need to put cold compresses on the treated area a few times a day for about a week. You may want to put bandages on your face at night for comfort.

Right after dermabrasion your skin will be raw and will ooze a clear fluid. In the next few days, the oozing liquid will stop and a crust will form on the skin. About a week after the dermabrasion, the treated skin looks shiny, red, and smooth. This shiny redness may last for a few weeks.

These procedures can discolor your skin. For this reason, people often choose other treatments for their acne scars. You may avoid discoloring your skin by staying out of the sun. Use hats and sunscreen whenever you are outside.

For more information on this surgery, see the topic Dermabrasion.

Credits

Last updated:	March 01, 2007
Author:	Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC