More than 12 million Americans suffer from varying degrees of acne scars. Even a mild case of adolescent acne can leave permanent scars throughout adulthood. In addition to physical trauma, for many, acne scars can also have adverse psychological effects.

Physicians say that the scarring itself represents only a small part of the actual damage. To gauge the psychological effect of acne scarring, makers of injectable collagen, gathered a focus group of men and women to discuss their feelings before and after acne scar treatments.

This study found that people with acne scars tend to be very introverted, often holding their heads down, covering their faces with their hair, and generally avoiding eye contact. Many of them carry a great deal of guilt - as if the scarring were their fault. Many sufferers "blame their skin" for things that go wrong in their lives.

After treatment of their acne scars, members of the focus group regained their self-confidence and felt more at ease in social situations. Fortunately, severe and mild acne scars can be successfully treated with a range of non-surgical procedures.

Injections with Collagen, Restylane®, and Radiance are good treatments for shallow and deep acne scars. These fillers can be injected into the area of the scar, smoothing depressions. Results are immediately apparent. Patients usually require touch-up treatments every six months to two years.

Use a chemical solution to peel away the fine outer layers of the skin. The solutions are available in several strengths, depending on the degree of peeling desired. Healing can take from three days to a few weeks. A new, smoother layer of skin is then formed.