In the past years, skin resurfacing techniques have become a popular way to treat the signs of aging, sun damage and to rid acne scars. There are several different options to choose from, but if you want to make the right choice you'll need to know what they are all about.

Some of the most common resurfacing techniques include: laser therapy, chemical peels and microdermabrasion. Each one of these procedures has its own benefits and contraindications. Here is a general overview of each of them.

Laser Therapy & Acne Scarring

Recently, laser therapy has become a popular form of treatment for acne scars. This procedure uses a carbon dioxide laser to "burn off" certain layers of the skin. There may be some visible damage, but that will depend on which type of therapy is used: ablative or non ablative.

Ablative laser therapy removes the epidermis. Therefore, it does leave visible signs of treatment and requires more down time. Non-ablative treatment deals with the underlying layers, so damage is less visible and recovery time is quite a bit less.

Chemical Peels for Acne Scarring

Chemicals peels has for ages been the most popular way of resurfacing acne scars. This procedure helps remove or peel off dead skin by using different chemicals. The removal of these skin cells will help promote the growth of new, healthier layers of skin.

Retinoic acid peels are ideal for treating acne scars. This type of peel can also help improve the signs of aging such as wrinkles and age spots. If your acne scars are deep, then you will require the use of stronger acids.

Downtime will depend on the depth of the peel. Light peels usually do not require anesthesia or a recovery period. However, if you undergo medium and deep chemical peels you will require anesthesia, pain medication, and even a few weeks to recover.

Microdermabrasion for Acne Scars and Acne Scarring

If you want a gentler scar treatment option then microdermabrasion is a good option. This type of treatment is also recommended to treat minor scars. However, keep in mind that this type of treatment will take longer to produce any noticeable results.

This procedure does not require medical assistance. But, it should be performed in sterile conditions to minimize the risk of infection. In fact, if you'd like you can have this procedure done in a spa, salon or a doctor's office.

Recently, microdermabrasion systems have become available for at home treatment. This type of treatment includes a portable machine with sponge or brush attachment. These treatments are usually used in connection with a microdermabrasion cream.

One of the benefits of having at-home treatments is that they can be done more frequently than traditional microdermabrasion.