I have both dark scars and tiny 'holes', due to acne scarring. Is microdermabrasion the best option?

Depending upon your skin colour there are a few options. Firstly the "tiny hole" acne scars are called "ice pick" scars. These are the most difficult type of scars to treat by ANY method - no guarantee should be given by anyone!
For white skin types you have the option of aggressive medical microdermabrasion, deep chemical peels, laser resurfacing such as Fraxel and Dermaroller skin needling.
If you have a dark skin colour the more aggressive options would not be suitable as they can make the pigmentation worse ( post inflammatory pigmentation).
Several treatments of either method will be needed as Ice Pick scars are deeply seated. There is the downtime / recovery time of each method to consider too.
For the pigmented / dark marks again there's a few options.
First comment is that hydroquinone skin lightening serums have now been withdrawn from sale / use in the UK as it kills the melanocytes that make the pigmentation. We need melanin to protect the skin and deeper organs from UV light damaging our cells and causing cancers.
To lighten the marks - you can use products such as Skinceuticals Pigment Regulator - safe on all skin colours with medical results.
There are skin peels to consider too such as Skinceuticals Pigment Regulator peel , Image's
Kojic and Lactic peel and Circadia's MandeliClear peels - again all these are safe for all skin colours when used appropriately by a skincare expert used to dealing with skin of colour (if you have skin of darker colour)
Most importantly you MUST use a clinical grade broad spectrum UVA / UVB sunscreen EVERY DAY to prevent the UV light activating and darkening the melanocyte pigment making cells.
Hope the info helps?
Diane Nivern
Skin Therapist & Facialist
Diane Nivern Clinic Ltd
Medical Aesthetics & Skin Rejuvenation
Manchester
http://www.dianenivern.com
0161 796 1169
twitter @dianenivern
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The particular size and shape of the scars that you have will determine the treatment. Micro-dermabrasion is one of the options which does not necessarily need to be administered by a doctor as many skin clinics and salons have the equipment. It is aimed at improving skin texture and glow. Consider laser treatments, dermabrasion (not micro-dermabrasion) and acne creams, both medicated and non-medicated.

Microdermabrasion and peels are great options. I had acne for years and i did both of these plus N-Lite and all helped loads. Good Luck.

Regenlite/N Lite laser is a great solution to reduce acne scarring/pitting. Normally microdermabrasion would be done first to prep the skin for best results.

My salon does not offer microdermabrasion facials. We offer a more gently 'multidermabrasion' facial. This offers a very deep cleanse, exfoliate after the pores are opened, then the skin is replenished with moisture products, then the pores are closed once more. This cannot be used for oily skin as it is too stimulating and can encourage further oil production. I would highly recommend going to a specialist 'dermatologist' or 'skin specialist' as they are more knowledgable in skin specifically, rather than just a beauty therapist. They will offer you the kind of results you need and want.

Microdermabrasion is a great treatment but also consider peels, skincare or a resurfacing laser such as pixel depending on the severity of your scarring. Best option is to visit a clinic to give you a thorough skin anaysis and recommend the best treatment for you.

Hello! We here at MBNS feel that the best option for you would be an eMatrix radio frequency treatment. It is by far the most effective way to diminish acne scarring and promote collagen growth. Here is our video diary on the treatment:

Another consideration added to the answers already given is Transdermal Therapy/ Micro-needling. This treatment has fantastic results on acne scarring and pigmentation.

I agree with the comments given in the top answer. Microdermabrasion is an excellent non invasive treatment to mechanically exfoliate the surface of the skin and encourage cell renewal. In addition any good facial treatments that desquamate and stimulate the circulation will also gradually improve the condition of the skin and enhance it's general appearance over time.
There are several cosmetic procedures that offer a more instant and intensive effect and for these options you should seek medical advice.

Microdermabrasion is just one option. You might also consider chemical peels, laser treatments, deep chemical peels such as a phenol or TCA peel (administered by a physician or nurse). There is also home care products containing hydroquinone that can help with lightening the dark spots (hyperpigmentation). This may take some time, depending upon the strength of the hydroquinone. Strengths can range from 2% to 10% or higher. Higher strengths would need to be prescribed by a physician.
I would advise seeing a Dermatologist, Plastic Surgeon or Vascular Physician for the laser treatment option.