Acne Scars

Acne doesn’t just happen in adolescence – it can show up at any age. Skin blemishes are an aesthetic problem that might leave you with another issue such as prominent acne scars or red and brown marks (so-called acne hyperpigmentation). Read on to find out how to get rid of acne scars and how to actively prevent them. After all, prevention is always the best approach.

Why do acne scars and marks occur?

Acne scars – Scars are the result of damage to the upper layer of your skin along with a disturbance of the deeper layers, often as a result of excessive squeezing or other irritation to the blemishes. This damaged skin doesn’t regenerate back to its condition before acne. Replacement tissue made of collagen fibres (granulation tissue) forms in the wound in order to fill it in and promote skin healing – however, after the healing process is done, the new tissue might look quite different than the surrounding skin.

In order to remove acne scars effectively, you first need to consider their type, properties, shape and size. Deep and extensive scarring should be consulted with a physician who will recommend the best method for reducing your acne scars. Mild scarring and acne marks can be treated at home. What are the basic acne scars types?

• Atrophic scars are deep, indented acne scars that form when the wound left by a blemish doesn’t heal correctly, or when there’s not enough connective tissue in that particular area. This type of scarring resembles a hollow left by a thick needle, which is why we refer to them as “ice pick scars”. They’re quite difficult to remove.
• Hypertrophic scars are defined by raised skin in the location of the scarring. This is caused by the formation of low-quality tissue – this tissue has a different structure and appears thicker than the surrounding skin.
• Keloid scars occur when the original hypertrophic scar grows and spreads to other areas of the skin. These raised scars are initially reddish-purple in colour, but their shade might later gradually fade. Keloid scars might also happen during the healing of burnt skin.

It is best to talk to your dermatologist so they can recommend a suitable method of treating your acne scars. Remember that some acne scars can’t be eliminated completely, but you can still improve their appearance with the right products. Mild scarring can become completely invisible over time, even with home treatment. In general, you should wait until your acne is healed to start treating your scars.

• Regular massage is a great way to eliminate scars on your face or body in the comfort of your home. This method can be especially effective when you’re dealing with mild facial scars or marks, because it improves blood circulation, increases skin elasticity in the location of the scar, and promotes general skin hydration. You can use various massage devices and tools – for instance a facial roller or a gua sha stone.
• Serum for acne scars – A nourishing serum that reduces acne scars or marks should contain active ingredients which even out your skin tone, lighten hyperpigmentation and regenerate your skin after inflammation. Some effective ingredients for acne scarring are vitamin C, niacinamide, salicylic acid and retinol.

If you’re dealing with really extensive acne scarring, we recommend consulting your dermatologist who can determine the right treatment for your skin. Certain methods such as LED therapy, ultrasonic spatula or dermaroller are also available for home use. Some of the most popular methods of acne scar removal at a dermatologist’s office include:

• A chemical peel for acne scars is a non-invasive method which effectively softens scars and enlarged pores while reducing red acne marks. The active ingredient used for this method is usually glycolic acid.
• Microdermabrasion helps smooth out scars and other areas of uneven skin, it softens the skin and removes tissue left after acne with a high-speed electric file.
• Cryotherapy is a treatment designed for keloid scars – it consists of “freezing” the skin before cortisone is injected.
• A LED mask or photon light therapy is a non-invasive, painless treatment that penetrates the skin cells where it uses varying wavelengths (light of different colours) to stimulate skin regeneration and reduce the visibility of dark spots on the skin.

Not sure how to lighten acne marks using natural substances? You can try various home remedies for acne, but always make sure to apply them only to areas that have already healed – never on open wounds. Honey softens scar tissue and moisturises it. Aloe vera gel moisturises and it can have a mild lightening effect. Tea tree soothes the skin and lightens hyperpigmentation. And coconut oil is great for facial massage as well as intense hydration.