A Quick Guide to Treating Dermal Fillers and Acne Scarring in Adelaide

Dermal fillers for acne scarring is a popular treatment at our Adelaide Cosmos Clinic. Scarring of the skin can be distressing and dampen one’s self-esteem, especially when it presents on the face. You may have tried dermatologically approved skincare products, laser treatments, microdermabrasion or even anti-wrinkle injections but are still searching for a good solution.

Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers can be an effective acne scar treatment that works quickly to minimise the severity of the skin depressions. Results are immediate, but for the best improvement long-term, Cosmos Clinic’s Australia-wide opts for a multi-modal approach.

What causes acne scarring?

Acne scarring results when pustules develop into nodules or cysts. The scars form from skin damage and abnormal collagen production during healing of active acne. Depending on the collagen loss or gain, these scars are classified as atrophic, keloid or hypertrophic scars.

• Hypertrophic scars – raised and thick scars sometimes due to the overproduction of collagen during healing.
• Keloid scars – a type of hypertrophic scar that spreads from the original site of the wound. Typically found on the chest, shoulders or back.
• Atrophic scars – indentations, pits or craters on the skin generally due to poor production of collagen or loss of dermal tissue.

Most acne scarring is generally atrophic.

Regardless of the classification, most acne scarring results from similar issues during the transition from damage to healing. Inflammation of blocked sebaceous glands typically starts the damage. The immune system is then activated before matrix remodelling begins. Enzymes flood the wound area determining the final structure of the extracellular matrix which causes the regrowth and healing of tissue. If there is an imbalance in the breakdown of enzymes or the rebuilding of tissue, scarring and damaged skin occurs.

Are dermal filler injectables an effective acne treatment?

Injecting dermal fillers into the affected area of the skin can help to lift the atrophic scar depression and smooth the skin’s surface. The injectables are designed to add volume and plump up the treatment area as well as hydrate the skin and contour facial features. Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers also work to stimulate collagen production which helps to improve the elasticity and flexibility of the damaged skin. This is particularly beneficial when the skin is thin.

The appeal of dermal fillers is that it can achieve instant results with minimal discomfort and no downtime. However, we find a multi-modal approach a more effective acne scar treatment. This is particularly the case if you have moderate to severe acne scarring.

Taking a multi-modal approach in the treatment of acne scarring

For optimal results long term, Cosmos Clinic Adelaide takes a multi-modal approach using various techniques to minimise the appearance of acne scarring. This will largely depend on the level of skin rejuvenation required and the types of treatments you have tried in the past.

An effective acne scar treatment may include:

• Dermal fillers
• Fractional laser or skin needling with Platelet Rich Plasma
• Skin needling and Platelet Rich Plasma and/or dermal fillers (good for mild-moderate acne scarring)
• Fractional laser and Platelet Rich Plasma and dermal fillers (good for severe acne scarring)

Not sure which acne treatment is right for you to minimise your facial scars?

An initial consultation with the team at Cosmos Clinic is recommended. During this consult, you can discuss your problem areas, treatments you have previously tried and your expectations of a cosmetic treatment. Your scar treatment options will be discussed and the results you can expect to achieve.