What are Rolling Scars?
Rolling scars are a type of atrophic acne scar. This means they appear as depressions in the skin, resulting in a loss of skin volume. Unlike other acne scar types, rolling scars have a distinctive, uneven, and undulating texture; the skin appears to roll or wave across the affected area. They are caused by bands of scar tissue forming beneath the skin's surface, resulting in dermal tethering to the subcutis tissue. These scars are typically 4 to 5 millimeters wide.
Rolling scars develop due to aberrant collagen production and degradation during the healing process of acne blemishes. When acne inflammation occurs, the acne pore swells, and the pore wall breaks down. The subsequent healing process can lead to the formation of these characteristic depressions. The uneven surface is a direct result of the underlying bands of scar tissue pulling down on the skin.
Characteristics of Rolling Scars
- Appearance: Uneven, rolling, or wavy texture.
- Size: Typically 4-5 millimeters wide.
- Depth: Depressed areas in the skin, indicating a loss of volume.
- Cause: Bands of scar tissue beneath the skin's surface.
- Association: Often a result of moderate to severe acne.
Treatment Options
Several treatments are available to improve the appearance of rolling scars. These include:
- Microdermabrasion: A professional procedure using powerful chemicals to exfoliate the skin.
- Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy): A procedure using a tool to create tiny injuries in the scar tissue, stimulating collagen production.
- Other treatments may include laser resurfacing, subcision, and fillers. The best course of treatment depends on the severity of the scars and individual factors.
