Ask a Derm

Q. How can I get rid of chicken pox or acne scars? 

A. “Scars can be improved-by up to 95 percent-but not removed,” says dermatologist Dr. Lisa Kellett of DLK on Avenue (www.dlkonavenue.com). “Treatments remodel the collagen in the skin, making it smoother. For raised scars, ND-YAG lasers and steroid injections work best, whereas for depressed scars, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Erbium lasers are ideal. Levulan, a new topical photosensitizer, makes any laser more effective. Prescription vitamin A cream also helps diminish scars. Over-the-counter scar treatments are available, but they are less effective and can take up to 12 weeks to show results. Lasers offer the quickest results.”