Reduce Acne Scars

While tips mentioned in earlier posts will help those with light to moderate acne scars take steps towards improvement, those with severe acne scarring will find that these methods are simply not up to the task.  The underlying problem is that severe acne scars are simply of an entirely different nature than less serious acne scars.  Getting rid of severe acne scars can be difficult, but it is just as possible as even the most unlikely acne treatment.  Let’s take a quick look into how these scars differ:

Severe Acne Scars vs Other Acne Scars

True acne scars are caused by tissue damage and loss of tissue due to large, deep infections in the skin.  Light to moderate acne scars are usually in the form of ice pick scars.  These are depressed fibrotic scars, and several dermatological treatments exist to help target these types of scars.  Check earlier posts for tips and tricks on reducing the appearance of these acne scars.

There are other, more serious types of acne scars, however.  Atrophic Macules are one type of severe acne scars.  They are soft scars that have a dark blue color due to the underlying blood vessels.  Although these are the most common type of severe acne scars, other serious scar types exist as well.

Treating Severe Acne Scars

Those with light to moderate acne scarring have a wide range of dermatological treatments available to help them clear up their skin.  Those suffering from severe acne scarring, however, are not afforded the same luxury.  Severe acne scar sufferers will only see minimal improvement with over the counter, cosmetic strength products.  A few of the options available for treatment are listed below:

• Injectable Fillers – this solution aims to fill in the scar by injecting material underneath it that can help plump the skin up.  Botox is an example of an injectable filler, but many other brands exist that serve the same purpose.
• Dermabrasion – this treatment attempts to even out the skin by abrasion.  The skin is sanded down to try to lessen the appearance of acne scars and make the skin look even.
• Laser Treatments – similar to the other options, laser treatments are available to help lessen the appearance of acne scars and help create smoother, more attractive skin.

The above options may be available for those with severe acne scars.  Those looking to explore any of the above acne scarring treatment options are encouraged to consult with a well qualified dermatologist and/or a cosmetic surgeon.  As always, proper acne treatment can help you avoid the formation of serious acne scars in the first place.

Acne scars are terrible, but treatment is possible.  What makes these discolorations sometimes frustrating to deal with is the delicate nature of acne erupted skin.  Many products on the market recommended for lightening post-acne spots can be too irritating for newly erupted skin and many times both conditions are happening at the same time. The annoying post-acne discoloration left by both macules and hyperpigmentation can be lessened, without adversely affecting newly erupted skin, by using a few simple products and by following simple acne treatment tips:

• Using a sunscreen daily will prevent further darkening of these marks. This is perhaps the most important tip you can follow.  For extended time in the sun as well as for daily use, it is recommended to wear an SPF 30 lightweight daily moisturizer.  Reapply your sunscreen often for maximum protection especially after perspiring and swimming.  Using mineral foundations and make-up containing sunscreen also help protect the discolored skin acne scars from worsening while providing some concealing benefits at the same time.

• Regularly use creams, serums and masks containing skin brightening and melanin surpressing ingredients like Kojic Acid and Mulberry and antioxidant Vitamin C.  Areas of discoloration will become noticeably lighter and brighter and the skin more radiant.

• If you are prone to acne, use a daily skin care regimen containing ingredients that keep pores clean to reduce the frequency of breakouts. Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide and Sulfur are some ingredients to look for on your skin care product labels.

• Treat pimples quickly to avoid excessive inflammation and potential hyperpigmentation. Don’t pick at your pimples which can cause damage to surrounding skin¸ slow the healing process and spread the condition.

Acne scars are unsightly, frustrating, and worst of all, difficult to deal with.  They may be the hardest part of the entire acne treatment process.  Fortunately for those that suffer from significant acne scars, there are definitely ways to help reduce the scarring and make the acne scars less visible.  Acne scars are awful, but with patience, dedication, and a few of the handy tips you will find on this website, you can start making steps towards clearer, healthier looking skin.  Read on for a brief introduction into what acne scars are and how they are formed.

Many acne scars aren’t really “scars” in the true sense of the word since they do not result in permanent damage to the skin. These “scars” can be a difficult issue to deal with due to their prolonged healing time and prominent appearance, making an acne condition on its way to being healed, seem like it is still there.

Those flat red marks left behind are called macules, which are the final stages of a healing pimple that usually disappear within 6 months without a trace.  Post inflammatory hyperpigementation is the name for the red or brown marks left from healed pimples, also not scars and not permanent.  The skin pigment, melanin is stimulated by the inflammation in the skin leading to a brown discoloration around the acne lesion. These spots appear more intensely in individuals who tan easily or on those with darker skin. The discoloration often lasts longer than the acne lesion itself and discoloration will fade with time.