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In the past decade a technique known as skin resurfacing has quickly become a popular way of treating the signs of aging and sun damage. It has even proven helpful by helping some people rid acne scars from their face. There are several different options that you can choose from. To make the right choice, you'll need to know what they entail.

Some of the most common resurfacing techniques include: laser therapy, chemical peels and microdermabrasion. Each one of these procedures has its own benefits and contraindications. Here is a general overview of each of them.

Laser Therapy for Acne Scarring

Recently, laser therapy has become a popular form of treatment for acne scars. This procedure "burns off" certain layers of the skin by using a carbon dioxide laser. The amount of visible damage depends on which type of therapy is used: ablative or non ablative.

Ablative laser therapy removes the epidermis and, therefore, leaves visible signs of treatment which will require down time. Non-ablative treatment requires a shorter recovery period because this type of treatment deals with the underlying layers of skin.

Acne Scarring & Chemical Peels

A popular way of resurfacing acne scars has been with the use of chemicals peels. This procedure uses different chemicals to help remove or peel off dead skin, therefore, promoting the growth of new, healthier layers of skin.

Retinoic acid peels are the best type of treatment for treating acne scars. This type of peel can also help improve the signs of aging such as wrinkles and age spots. Stronger acids are necessary if your acne scars are deep.

Downtime will depend on the depth of the peel. Light peels usually do not require anesthesia or a recovery period. Medium and deep peels will require anesthesia, pain medication and a few weeks of recovery.

Microdermabrasion for Acne Scars and Acne Scarring

If you want a gentler scar treatment option then microdermabrasion is a good option. If you suffer from minor scars, then you can also undergo microdermabrasion in order to treat them. Keep in mind, however, that this type of treatment will also take more time to produce any noticeable effects.

This procedure does not require medical assistance. But, it should be performed in sterile conditions to minimize the risk of infection. In fact, if you'd like you can have this procedure done in a spa, salon or a doctor's office.

Lately, microdermabrasion systems have become so popular that they are now available for at home treatment. This type of treatment includes a portable machine with sponge or brush attachment. These treatments are usually used in connection with a microdermabrasion cream.

At home treatments can be done more frequently than traditional microdermabrasion. It can also be used all over your body to help remove dry skin patches and age spots as well as body scars.