Publication:

Microdermabrasion for treatment of acne scars in South Indian patients: a clinical study

Background Acne is a common disorder with a more prevalence among adolescents and seldom has it caused atrophic scars. Several treatment options are available for atrophic acne scars treatment. The objective of the study was to assess the efficiency and safety of microdermabrasion for acne scars in South Indian patients.

Methods Forty patients (24 males and 16 females) with acne scars were enrolled in the study. Microdermabrasion was done to all patients and repeated at every two weeks intervals for a total of four sittings. Patients were followed up on tenth week. The response to the treatment was assessed by objective and subjective methods.

Results All patients completed the study and follow up period.  There were 8 patients with mild, 28 patients with moderate and 4 patients with severe grade of acne scars. At the end of the study, 9 patients (22%) with mild to moderate acne scars showed good response. 30% of patients were satisfied with the treatment with varying degrees. Side effects were transient and mild.

Conclusions Microdermabrasion is a safe, easy to perform, well tolerated procedure for treatment of mild to moderate acne scars.