PCOS: What’s the best treatment for acne scars?

by | Dec 9, 2013

Acne and Polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS)

Because polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is due to abnormal shifts in a woman’s hormonal balance, one of the most common symptoms of the disorder is acne.

Treatment for women with acne is largely the same, regardless of whether PCOS is the cause. Over-the-counter products can help reduce the appearance of acne — in some cases, these products can work in just a few days.

Polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS) and acne scars

While controlling PCOS-related acne can be easy, dealing with acne scars isn’t always as simple.

Acne scars are stubborn, and no single treatment is best for everyone. However, various procedures can improve your complexion.

I’ve included a few suggestions below that can help reduce the appearance of acne scars.

Some of the best treatments for Polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS)-related acne scars

  • Laser treatments. In laser resurfacing, a laser beam destroys the outer layer of skin. As the wound heals, new skin forms. Less intense lasers cause less damage, but are also less effective.
  • Energy-based procedures. Pulsed light sources and radiofrequency devices help create new skin without damaging the outer layer of skin. After several treatments, acne scars may appear less noticeable.
  • Dermabrasion. This procedure involves removing the top layer of skin with a rapidly rotating wire brush. Surface scars may be completely removed, and deeper acne scars may appear less noticeable.
  • Surgery. In some cases, surgery to remove deeply indented acne scars is an option. A minor procedure, called punch excision, cuts out individual acne scars. Stitches or a skin graft repairs the hole left at the scar site.
  • Tissue fillers. Injecting collagen or fat under the skin and into the acne scars can fill out or stretch the skin, making acne scars less noticeable. Results are temporary, so you’d need to repeat the injections periodically.

I have PCOS. What’s the best treatment for my acne scars?

If you have PCOS and are looking for the right solution for acne scarring, you should feel encouraged by the various treatments available. But you might feel overwhelmed by the choices, too.

When it comes to erasing acne scars, just remember that it’s best to have a professional help you choose which treatment is most appropriate for you and your needs.

Always discuss the pros and cons of each procedure with your doctor or dermatologist before pursuing any treatment.