Active outbreaks are aggravating enough, but acne scarring can also be aggravating. The good news is that acne marks are treatable. Natural, over-the-counter, and prescription treatments are available to treat acne and minimize scars’ visibility.
Depending on the kind and degree of scarring, there are several acne marks treatment options, including
- Salicylic acid and other chemical peels,
- Retinoids and other lotions,
- Laser therapy,
- Light therapy,
- Micro-needling and several other techniques,
- Surgery
The Types Of Acne Marks
Depending on the kind of scarring acne has left behind, suitable treatment choices may differ slightly. There are three types of acne scars.
1. Atrophic Scars
These scars resemble tiny skin indentations, which include:
- Small scars that resemble pinpricks are called icepick scars.
- Larger indentations with distinct edges are called boxcar scars.
- Rolling scars look to be rolling or undulating and have fuzzy borders.
They develop when the skin does not produce enough fibroblasts throughout the healing process. Cells called fibroblasts are essential for the creation of collagen and the healing of wounds.
2. Hypertrophic scars
These arise when the skin overproduces fibroblasts during the healing process of the acne spot, resulting in a raised scar.
3. Keloid scars
Although they resemble hypertrophic scars, these are typically thicker than the initial acne spot. They frequently have hyperpigmentation, which makes them darker than the nearby skin. They could be brown or red. There could also be soreness or scratching.
Treatments For Acne Scars
Because acne scars are so difficult to remove, no treatment is ideal for everyone. Depending on the type of scar, your skin type, and the degree of scarring, one or a combination of the following methods may help you have clearer skin.
Here are some acne scars treatment options you can try.
Salicylic Acid
A naturally occurring substance called salicylic acid is frequently found in acne skin care treatments. Salicylic acid peels remove dirt, dead skin cells, and other materials from the skin’s pores that cause acne.
All scar types can be treated with salicylic acid. Before applying it on their entire face, those with sensitive skin should conduct a patch test on a tiny area of skin because it could cause dryness or irritation.
Retinoids
Acne scar removal may be possible with some topical retinoids. Topical retinoids speed cell regeneration, lessen acne lesions and inhibit inflammation. Remembering that retinoids might make skin more susceptible to the sun is crucial. Anyone using retinoids to treat acne or scars should apply sunscreen when going outside.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Alpha Hydroxy Acids(AHAs) can accelerate the rate at which skin cells renew. Some medical professionals advise using AHAs to treat acne and lessen the visibility of acne scars.
AHAs are a gentle type of acid that removes the top layer of skin to reveal brand-new, younger-looking skin beneath. This procedure might lessen hyperpigmentation brought on by scarring. However, swelling, burning, and itching could happen in high quantities. Before using AHAs, it is advisable to speak with a doctor. They can aid in determining which strength to employ.
Lactic Acid
Another kind of AHA is lactic acid. It can remove dead skin cells gently by acting as a peel. It might aid in skin smoothing and scar appearance reduction.
Although it can also result in hyperpigmentation, lactic acid may also help lighten black scar tissue. Before utilizing lactic acid-containing treatments to cure acne scars, testing them on a tiny patch of skin is best. Lactic acid is an ingredient in several acne treatments.
Additionally, it can be found in diluted apple cider vinegar, which offers a more natural and affordable alternative.
Laser Therapy
Skin resurfacing using a laser procedure is done without chemicals or washes. It exposes the younger skin cells beneath the top layer, which might lessen the visibility of scarring. Raised scars’ look and texture can be improved with its aid. You can also lighten the hue of hyperpigmented scars with pulsed dye laser therapy.
Only some people can go for laser therapy. The type of acne scars and the person’s skin type will determine this. Some patients, especially those with sensitive skin, may potentially experience an adverse reaction to the treatment.
Light Therapy
Light therapy is a better option for some people than laser treatment. Red and near-infrared light therapy can significantly help with acne.
Micro-needling
Micro-needling involves inserting tiny needles into the skin around the scar to encourage the body to produce more collagen. This collagen may lessen the visibility of atrophic acne scars through skin smoothing.
It was discovered that using collagen gel and micro-needling produced much better outcomes than using micro-needling alone.
Microneedling, though, can have negative repercussions. After the therapy, many people report redness, discomfort, and inflammation. These benefits, though, eventually fade.
Surgery
Raised acne scars can be removed surgically if other treatments are unsuccessful. A surgeon might advise additional therapy if surgery isn’t adequate to resolve the issue.
FAQ
How can I remove acne scars?
When used topically, salicylic acid clears pores, lessens swelling and redness, and exfoliates the skin. It is regarded as an excellent treatment method for acne scars. Salicylic acid-containing products can be incorporated into your everyday regimen, or your skin care professional may utilize them for less frequent chemical peels.
Can scars be permanently removed with treatment?
Scars can frequently be removed with treatment, but they get lighter over time. The type and degree of scarring, as well as the patient’s skin type, will both have an impact on how well the treatment works.
It is essential to consider your options carefully and discuss your expectations with a dermatologist because treatment can be expensive and time-consuming.
Bottom Line
Acne scars can be an unwelcome reminder of acne and lower some people’s self-esteem. Many people who use one or more home treatments find success. Medical care from a dermatologist can also aid in the removal of acne scars in cases of persistent scarring.
Always consult a licensed dermatologist when considering acne scar treatment because some medications might have adverse side effects if misused.
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