Pockmark

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Pockmarks)


Information about pockmarks on the skin


Pockmark
Synonyms Acne scars, ice pick scars
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Depressed scars on the skin
Complications Psychological distress
Onset Post-inflammatory
Duration Long-term
Types N/A
Causes Acne vulgaris, Chickenpox, Smallpox
Risks Severe acne, improper treatment
Diagnosis N/A
Differential diagnosis N/A
Prevention N/A
Treatment Laser therapy, Dermabrasion, Chemical peel
Medication N/A
Prognosis N/A
Frequency Common
Deaths N/A


Pockmarks are a type of scar that appear as depressions in the skin. They are often the result of acne vulgaris, chickenpox, or smallpox. These scars can vary in depth and size, and they are typically more noticeable on the face.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Pockmarks are primarily caused by the loss of underlying skin tissue. This can occur due to:

  • Acne vulgaris: Severe acne can damage the skin and underlying tissue, leading to pockmarks.
  • Chickenpox: This viral infection can leave scars after the blisters heal.
  • Smallpox: Although eradicated, smallpox was known to cause significant scarring.

Risk Factors[edit | edit source]

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing pockmarks:

  • Severe or cystic acne
  • Delayed or improper treatment of acne
  • Picking or squeezing acne lesions

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Several treatments are available to reduce the appearance of pockmarks:

  • Laser therapy: This treatment uses focused light to remove layers of skin, promoting new skin growth.
  • Dermabrasion: A procedure that sands down the skin to improve its texture.
  • Chemical peel: A chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove the top layers, encouraging new skin to form.
  • Microneedling: Involves using fine needles to puncture the skin, stimulating collagen production.

Psychological Impact[edit | edit source]

Pockmarks can lead to psychological distress due to their impact on appearance. Individuals with noticeable scars may experience reduced self-esteem and social anxiety.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External Links[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD