Ice Pick Scars Treatment: Cost, Before & After Results

Ice-pick scars are one of the more severe types of acne scars because they are deep inside the skin. In spite of their unique shape and depth, advanced treatment options available today prove that ice pick scars are treatable. Advanced ice-pick acne scar treatments can reduce their appearance dramatically and give your skin a complete makeover. Want to know more about ice pick scar removal treatments? Keep reading.

What Are Ice-Pick Scars?

Ice-pick scars refer to the category of acne scars that appear as small pits or craters in the skin. This type of scar may look as if the skin got injured or punctured by a sharp object like a tiny ice pick. Ice-pick scars are a common occurrence among teenagers; however, they can affect both men and women of all ages.

What Do Ice pick Scars Look Like?

Visually, ice pick scars are not difficult to identify. They are narrow and deep V-shaped scars which are generally less than 2 mm wide and commonly appear on cheeks.[1] They look like small craters or pin holes in the skin.

What Causes Ice pick Scars?

Abnormal collagen production during skin healing period after active acne subsides, causes atrophic scars like ice pick acne scars. The collagen deficit in the acne-affected areas leads to scarred tissue. This happens as moderate to severe inflammatory acne affects the deeper layers and lack of medical treatment may cause permanent damage in the form of acne scars.

How To Get Rid Of Ice Pick Scars?

Unfortunately, ice pick scars don’t go away on their own. Home remedies and self-care methods also do not help to get rid of them. Ice-pick acne scars are challenging to remove because of their depth, and a combination of advanced treatments works best to reduce them. A dermatologist will help you select the right treatment option and customise it accordingly to deliver the best results. Here are the most popular treatment options available:

1. Laser Treatments For Ice Pick Scars:

Laser skin resurfacing treatment harnesses the power of concentrated laser beams to vapourise the damaged layers of the skin, minimising the deep-pitted ice pick scars. The laser skin resurfacing treatment also boosts collagen production in the skin, which helps in the regrowth of new skin cells to even out the pits, giving a smooth texture to the skin.[2] In this treatment, a dermatologist uses high-frequency laser light in combination with other treatment modalities to target the affected ice pick scar tissues and penetrate deep into the skin. Pixel, a fractionated erbium YAG laser, creates controlled micro-injuries, leaving a rim of healthy skin. This helps to stimulate the production of new collagen and reduce the depth of scars. Depending on the depth of the scars, your dermatologist may use it in combination with other modalities of treatment to help you enjoy visible scar revision results. With Pixel laser resurfacing, clients see reduction in scars over 6-8 sessions within a span of a few months.

2. Microneedling Radiofrequency:

Micro-needling radiofrequency is another popular method to treat ice pick acne scars. It involves microneedling, which means creating micro-injuries in the epidermis of skin affected by ice pick scars.[3] A handheld device with ultra-fine needles helps create these micro-injuries. The treatment then uses radiofrequency energy to transfer heat to the targeted dermis. The treatment aims to stimulate collagen and elastin production in the affected region. The RF Microneedling treatment delivers visible results after 6-8 sessions that take place at monthly intervals.

3. Chemical Peels For Ice Pick Scars:

It is a non-invasive skin resurfacing treatment for improving the appearance of scarred tissue. It includes topical application of effective chemical solutions of varying concentrations depending on the severity, depth and age of ice pick scars. The chemical peels aim to exfoliate the top layers of the damaged skin and unclog any blocked skin pores. Chemical peels also boost collagen production, causing the new skin cells to grow and thereby achieving smoother skin. Many dermatologists prefer to use trichloroacetic acid focally to specifically minimise ice pick scars. The treatment procedure is quick, and you can see progressive results as your treatment advances. Your doctor may advise multiple sessions to help you achieve optimal improvement in your skin texture and appearance.

4. Punch Excision:

Punch excision is a surgical method for removing scars. Doctors use a punch tool to remove each acne scar surgically. The punch tool creates small excisions on the site of each ice pick scar. Following the punch excision, the doctor will treat the wounds using sterile strips or sutures. The doctor will properly close the treated skin from all sides after the procedure, and over time, the ice pick scar will diminish. Sometimes, the procedure may leave a thin scar or a softer mark in place of the original one.

5. Punch Grafting:

It is another surgical treatment to remove ice pick scars that involves closing or filling the ice pick scar crater with a skin graft taken from one’s skin. A dermatologist will usually take a skin graft from behind the ears and stack it on the scarred tissue with sutures or skin glue. It generally takes about a week for the skin to heal. The punch grafting method is more effective on less mobile areas of the face, like the forehead. The results of this treatment depend upon the suitable donor site that matches the colour and texture of the scarred area.

6. Microdermabrasion:

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive treatment method that dermatologists use to reduce ice pick scars. This treatment involves exfoliation of upper and uneven layers of skin with the use of micro-crystals. The treatment aims at scrubbing off the uneven layers of skin around each ice pick scar until the surrounding tissue looks even in texture and tone. A specialist may rub micro-crystal spray from a tipped handpiece on the target area to remove damaged skin cells, revealing smoother skin and thereby reducing the appearance of ice pick scars.

7. Dermabrasion:

Dermabrasion, another non-invasive treatment, also aims to reduce the appearance of ice pick scars by levelling out the pits or craters caused by ice pick scars. Instead of using crystals, the dermatologist uses an abrasive tool such as a wire brush or a metal wheel to work on the upper layers of the skin during this procedure. He will quickly move the tool over the skin to erode the epidermis and facilitate the regeneration of healthier skin. Your skin specialist may recommend multiple sessions to attain the desired results. This treatment option may cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and scarring. Due to the availability of safer and more effective treatments, dermatologists do not consider dermabrasion a preferred option.

8. Ice pick Scar Removal Home Remedies:

Internet is full of natural remedies for ice pick scars treatment at home. But the truth is that these home remedies are not effective enough to fade away these deep-pitted scars. Some of the general home remedies, such as use of cinnamon, honey and witch hazel can still help to reduce discolouration of skin but reversing collagen damage requires advanced procedures.

9. OTC creams:

Ice-pick scars are one of the most challenging scars to treat. OTC creams or topical remedies aren’t of much help when it comes to treating or fading ice pick scars. It is best to consult a dermatologist for customised skincare products that suit your skin type to prevent further breakouts and scarring.

Must Read: Advanced Acne Scar Removal Treatment

Ice Pick Scars Treatment Cost In India

The cost of ice pick scar removal treatment in India ranges between Rs 7,000 and Rs 20,000 per session. It varies based on the procedure selected, the severity of scars, the number of sessions recommended, the experience of the doctor, and the clinic’s location and reputation.

The above prices are indicative only. Please visit a reputed clinic to know the exact cost.

Must Read: How Much Does Laser Acne Scar Removal Cost In India?

Ice Pick Scars Before And After Results

Here are the images post-laser treatment for ice pick scars:

How To Prevent Ice Pick Scars?

The following preventive tips can help manage and prevent ice pick scars from darkening or scarring further:

• Seek the help of a dermatologist to get rid of acne as soon as they appear, as they are the ones causing ice pick scars.
• Make sure to wear a sunscreen every day and protect your skin from darkening and sun damage that worsens the appearance of scars.
• Moisturise your skin well and stay hydrated. This will enhance the healing process of your skin and improve its texture and make the skin more receptive to any planned treatments.
• Follow a good skin care regimen by using appropriate skin cleansers and moisturisers suitable for your skin type.
• Avoid picking on a scar as it may worsen it.
• Visit a dermatologist and discuss your treatment options before resorting to any home remedies.

Conclusion

Ice-pick scars develop due to acne breakouts. These acne scars are stubborn and often stay unaffected by using home remedies or OTC products. To prevent ice pick scars, you must treat acne breakouts promptly with the help of a qualified dermatologist. If you have ice pick scars on your face, visit a dermatologist to find the best treatment available for you to attain an even skin tone and smooth texture.

Frequently Asked Questions On Ice Pick Scars

• Do Ice pick Scars Go Away?

Ice-pick scars are one of the most stubborn forms of scars due to their depth and shape. This type of scars generally requires cosmetic procedure as they can leave permanent sunken marks on the skin.

• What Is The Difference Between Rolling And Ice-Pick Scars?

Ice-pick scars are about 2 mm deep scars in the skin and have a narrow v shape. Rolling scars are wide and depressed scars with sloping edges.

• Can Salicylic Acid Remove Ice pick Scars?

Ice-pick scars are difficult to remove using OTC products, including salicylic acid. However, your dermatologist may recommend skincare products with salicylic acid to enhance the results of advanced clinical treatments.

• Does Aloe Vera Remove Ice pick Scars?

Depressed acne scars, such as ice pick scars, do not go away with home remedies. Undoubtedly, aloe vera is one of the best home remedies for improving skin health and hydration. No studies prove that the use of aloe vera for removing or fading ice pick scars shows any significant results.

• How Common Are Ice pick Scars?

Ice-pick scars are common and especially affect teenagers undergoing hormonal changes due to puberty.

• Does Retinol Help Remove Ice pick Scars?

Retinol cannot remove ice pick scars, but your dermatologist may recommend it to help you maintain the treatment results of advanced in-clinic procedures.