Can I Have Dermabrasion for my Acne Scars?


Find Treatment for Acne in London & UK »

Whether or not you are a good candidate for dermabrasion relies on many factors. Firstly, and most importantly, you should have a good understanding of the procedure and realistic expectations of its outcome. You must also be of sound mind and in good health.

The kind of acne scarring you have may also affect whether or not you are suitable for dermabrasion. For instance, raised, hypertrophic (keloid) scars are not treatable with dermabrasion. The appearance of ice-pick, boxcar and rolling scars can all be improved with dermabrasion however particularly severe scarring may not respond as well to treatment and could require a very large number of sessions which could be extremely expensive, time consuming and bad for the health of your skin. Your consultant will be able to tell you how well your scars will respond to dermabrasion and whether or not you will be able to get the results you hope for.


At your consultation you will also be quizzed on your medical background. This will ensure that you are not allergic to the anaesthetic that will probably be used in your procedure. It will also let your practitioner know if you are on or have recently been taking any medication that could jeopardise the procedure. For instance, if you are taking the acne drug Accutane (Isotretinoin) or have taken in the last eighteen months you will be deemed unsuitable for treatment. Equally, if you are taking any blood-thinning medication such as Aspirin and Warfarin, or using any supplements such as Vitamin E and Omega 3 there may be complications. If you want dermabrasion you must avoid these medications and supplements for at least a week before and a week after your dermabrasion treatment. Please remember that you should never stop medication without first consulting your medical practitioner.

You will also be asked to discuss your lifestyle to ensure nothing you do will cause the dermabrasion to be less successful. If you are a smoker you will be asked to quit for two weeks before and a week after treatment. If you are a heavy drinker you will be unable to drink for a few days before and for a few days after your treatment.

Dermabrasion During Pregnancy

Little or no research has been done to assess the dangers of dermabrasion during pregnancy. It is unlikely that it would cause direct harm to an unborn child but dermabrasion during pregnancy is not recommended. This is due to the fact that during pregnancy your skin changes dramatically. This means it may scar, heal or pigment differently. There is a much higher chance of hypopigmentation while you are pregnant.

« Dermabrasion Appointments & Consultations for Acne Scar Removal How to Prepare for Dermabrasion for Acne Scars »


Guide to Dermabrasion for Acne Scars




Further Information Acne