The effectiveness of combination therapy in acne scar reduction – case reports

Introduction. Acne vulgaris affects about 80% of young people, in whom 25% of cases require dermatological treatment. The disease commonly involves the face (99% of cases) and back (90%) in both women and men. Acne treatment involves elimination or relief of symptoms, and prevention of their consequences, especially scarring. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and atrophic scars are the most frequent complication. Monotherapies and combined therapies give satisfactory results in reducing their visibility.

Objective. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of combined (mechanical and chemical) therapy – diamond microdermabrasion treatment and 25% and 35% AHA and BHA exfoliation – on reduction of the acne scars’ visibility.

Case reports. The problem of atrophic scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was investigated in a 26-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man. A course of four diamond microdermabrasion treatments and four AHA and BHA exfoliations were performed on the skin of the back. After combined mechanical and chemical therapy a visual reduction of the visibility of acne scars and lightening of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentations on the skin of the back were observed. The skin hydration did not change.

Conclusions. Diamond microdermabrasion and AHA and BHA exfoliations are effective treatments used to reduce the visibility of acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The methods do not cause a significant and sustained improvement of skin moisture, so it is necessary to use additionally moisturizing preparations. Acne scars usually develop on the skin of the face or back, which causes severe psychological problems and reduces quality of the patient’s life. Monotherapy or combined therapy should be adjusted to the individual needs of the patient, to improve their skin's appearance and quality of life.