Having acne breakouts can already be frustrating enough, and the scars that follow? They are worse. But regardless of how unpretty they look for you, did you know that scars are actually part of the healing process of your skin after getting damaged by an injury or wound? Acne scars, in particular, are generally caused by the skin’s inflammation. The great the inflammation, the higher the possibility that scars will appear.
There are different acne scars that one could have, including hypertrophic or keloid, atrophic scars, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. However, it’s vital to note that you won’t automatically get scars when you have acne. Plus, not all of these scars are permanent too! Continue reading to find out what you can do when you have acne scars.
1. Laser treatments
Among the best acne scar solutions today are laser procedures, which are used to resurface your skin without the use of scrubs or chemicals. Treatments that use ablative lasers basically remove your skin’s uppermost layer to surface the younger skin cells, thus reducing the appearance of scars. The healing process can take about two weeks with some redness.
The other type of treatment utilizes non-ablative lasers, which help stimulate collagen formation and tighten your skin. The best thing about this treatment is that it can be done quickly with minimal to no downtime. However, if you’re still having breakouts, it might be best to first consult the laser specialist if it’s a safe option for you to take.
2. Salicylic acid
Another common acne treatment is salicylic acid. Used to reduce the appearance of dark spots left behind by acne blemishes, it is widely present in almost every skincare product, such as face cleansers, lotions, and spot treatments. Did you know that it’s also considered one of the most effective solutions for acne scars? It cannot only exfoliate your skin and clear your pores but can also reduce any redness or swelling.
Take note that results may take several weeks and may cause irritation or dryness too. If you have sensitive skin, check with your skin specialist to know how often you can use this product or if it’s even a great idea to add this to your daily skin routine.
3. Topical retinoids
Often used to get rid of the actual acne, topical retinoids are typically used to lessen the appearance of the dark marks left behind after the breakout. Such marks, typically purple, red, or brown, are common to almost everyone with acne. Keep in mind, though, that this treatment may only be beneficial for reducing discoloration or lightening the appearance of the dark spots.
You will need more than just topical retinoids to totally remove depressed or pitted scars. This treatment can usually be found as an active ingredient in most serums and creams. It’s still advisable to check with your dermatologist in case you need higher concentrations. Lastly, as this ingredient may make your skin sensitive to the sun, it’s best to wear sunscreen with it when going out.
4. Dermal fillers
If you’re someone with depressed acne scars, dermal fillers are another option you can consider. This basically works by injecting the filler substances into the scar to even out the skin’s surface. Dermal fillers generally use hyaluronic acid, as well as bovine and human collagen. There are also some treatments that other commercial fillers such as poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).
Furthermore, there are collagen-based fillers that may require you to do an allergy test. Be sure to check with your dermatologist to find out the best filler for your skin problem. However, bear in mind that this treatment is only temporary, with most lasting for about six to 18 months, so you will probably need to repeat it after a few months.
5. Chemical peels
Like dermal fillers, different peels are suitable for every type of scarring, acne severity, and skin type. This treatment uses a strong acid to eliminate the skin’s top layer, helping to reduce the appearance of deeper scars. You can also find mild chemical peels that can be applied at home. But again, it’s always best to confirm with your skin specialist if this treatment is right and safe for your skin.
Kindly remember to consult a qualified and experienced dermatologist before trying out any of these tips for removing your acne scars. Such experts can help you determine the severity of the scarring and provide advice on the best management techniques and treatment options for your case. Work together with your specialist for clearer and more youthful skin.
