Rolling Scars Treatment

Acne, which is one of the common skin condition, can leave behind various types of scars, which can be quiet challenging to treat. One among of the scar is rolling scars, which are seen in around 20% of individuals. These scars can significantly affect one’s appearance and self-esteem, but with latest prevention and treatment options, the acne scars can be resurfaced to the skin with minimum downtime. 

Here at FMS Skin & Hair Clinics, after the thorough examination by the dermatologist, we offer a customized treatment depending on the extent and the severity of the scars. 

ROLLING SCAR TREATMENT AT FMS— We do a combination of procedures. We start usually with subscision where the band of tissue is broken with help of needle. Few sessions may be required. This is followed by MNRF and Fractional lasers for a better result.

Get In touch

Address:
Door No. 8-2-293/82/A/725/A, Beside FMS
INTERNATIONAL DENTAL CENTER Road No. 37,
Hitech City Rd, near Daspalla Hotel, CBI Colony,
Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500033

Rolling Acne Scars Treatment

What Are Rolling Scars?

Rolling scars are one of type of atrophic acne scar characterized by their wave-like or undulating appearance. These scars create a texture of uneven surface on the skin, often becoming more noticeable with age as the skin loses its elasticity and become saggy. Unlike other types of acne scars, such as ice pick scars or boxcar scars, rolling scars have smooth, rounded edges and they tend to be more shallow. Rolling scars are attached to lower dermis, with a fibrous band of scar. Because of this, they have a tethering appearance on the skin. They are usually present on larger surface of skin, particularly on the cheeks and temples.

Characteristics of Rolling Scars

Appearance: Rolling scars are broad depressions with rounded, sloping edges. They create a wave-like effect on the skin’s surface, which becomes more pronounced as the skin ages and loses elasticity.

Location: These scars are often found on the lower cheeks and temples, areas where the skin is thicker and more prone to deep, cystic acne.

Texture: The undulating surface caused by rolling scars gives the skin an uneven texture, which becomes more apparent under certain lighting conditions.

Causes of Rolling Scars

Rolling scars occur when the skin’s healing process is disrupted after severe acne. Several factors contribute to their development:

  1. Severe Inflammation: Deep, inflamed acne lesions, such as cysts and nodules, damage the skin’s deeper layers. This damage disrupts the normal healing process, leading to the formation of fibrous bands beneath the skin.
  2. Fibrous Bands: As the skin heals, fibrous bands of tissue form between the skin and underlying structures, pulling the epidermis down and creating the characteristic rolling appearance.
  3. Delayed Treatment: Not treating severe or cystic acne promptly can increase the likelihood of scarring. Early and effective treatment can help prevent the formation of rolling scars.
  4. Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals are more prone to scarring due to their genetic makeup, which affects their skin’s healing response.
  5. Skin Picking and Squeezing: Manipulating acne lesions can cause additional trauma to the skin, exacerbating inflammation and increasing the risk of scarring.

Treatments for Rolling Scars— At FMS Skin & Hair Clinics

Treating rolling scars often requires a combination of approaches tailored to the specific needs of the individual. Both at-home treatments and professional procedures can help improve the appearance of these scars.

At-Home Treatments

  1. Topical Retinoids: Retinoids are derivatives of Vitamin A that promote cell turnover and collagen production, helping to improve skin texture and reduce scarring. 
  2. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Chemical exfoliants usually help in removing dead skin cells and stimulate new cell growth. Incorporating AHA products into your skincare routine 2-3 times a week to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of scars. Examples: Glycolic acid (AHA)
  3. Vitamin C Serums: An antioxidant which to brighten the skin, reduce hyperpigmentation, and boost collagen production. Applying a Vitamin C serum in the morning helps to improve overall skin tone.

Professional Treatments

  1. Subcision: A minor surgical procedure in which a needle is inserted under the skin to break up the fibrous bands which cause the scar. It releases the fibrous bands that pull the skin down, allowing the skin to return to a smoother surface. It is particularly effective for rolling scars. It is often combined with other treatments like laser resurfacing procedures or fillers for enhanced results. Recovery time is few days of bruising and swelling.
  2. Radiofrequency (RF) Treatments: Uses radiofrequency energy along with tiny fine needles which create micro-injuries in skin, which heat the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and skin tightening. Microneedling RF, fractional RF etc are effective for both texture improvement and reducing pigmentation. Recovery time typically ranges from 1-3 days of redness and mild swelling.
  3. Laser Therapy: It uses focused energy beam of light to produce controlled damaged on the acne scars which helps them to resurface and also helps in stimulating collagen production. Fractional lasers like CO2 laser, and erbium laser are effective for atrophic scars. Multiple sessions are required for best results. Recovery time varies from 5-10days depending on the type of laser used.
  4. Chemical Peels: Chemical solution is applied to the skin to exfoliate the top layers and promote the growth of new, smoother skin. It can be done as last session to help to resurface those remaining scars and improving overall skin texture. Multiple sessions are required. Recovery time depends on depth of the peel.
  5. Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances like  Hyaluronic acid fillers, collagen stimulators etc., which fill in depressed scars and provide immediate improvement. Dermal fillers offer immediate but temporary results, lasting from several months to year, depending on the filler used. Minimal downtime, with possible mild swelling or bruising.

Choosing the Right Treatment

Selecting the appropriate treatment for rolling scars depends on several factors, including the severity of the scars, skin type, and individual preferences.  Rolling scars, with their wave-like texture, can be a persistent reminder of past breakouts. However, with a variety of effective treatments available, significant improvement is possible. From at-home treatments like retinoids and chemical exfoliants to professional procedures such as microneedling, subcision, and laser therapy, there are numerous options to help smooth and rejuvenate the skin. Consulting with an Expert dermatologist ensures that the chosen treatment plan is both safe and suited to your specific skin needs. With patience and consistent care, achieving a smoother, more even complexion is within reach.