Acne is a skin condition resulting from the formation and filling of oils, bacteria, and dead skin
into the tinny skin pores. Acne scars condition results in inflammations of the filled-up tiny skin
pores. Typically, acne heals by itself, but acne scars form when the acne fails to heal by itself.
The acne scar may be in the form of red bumps, cysts, pus-filled lesions, or solid lesions. When
touched, acne scars hurt a lot.
Acne scars are prevalent in people between 11-30 years. Teenagers commonly get acne scars
due to hormonal changes in their bodies. Although hormones still lead to acne in adults, they
primarily develop acne scars due to the consumption of birth control pills or oil-based products.
However, environmental and stress may lead to the development of acne scars.
Acne scars are treatable by either inducing the skin to heal itself by producing enough collagen
or applying treatments that nearly clear all the scars. However, if you have acne scars, don’t
worry. The following are ways you may reduce the appearance of the acne scars:
1. Use of Acne Creams and Facial Washes
Although the method is effective, you should see a dermatologist to administer the best and
appropriate acne cream. Acne creams are manufactured using acne-fighting ingredients such
as benzoyl peroxide. Regular application of topical retinoid cream prevents the formation of
scars and reduces acne scars’ appearance. Sunscreen may also be applied to reduce dark
spots and skin hyperpigmentation. However, abrasive skincare products should be avoided.
2. Book for Dermatological Procedures
Certified dermatologists may perform dermatological procedures that involve dermabrasion,
microdermabrasion, chemical peel application, among others, as explained below.
● Chemical Peel
The chemical peel procedure involves applying chemical solutions on the affected part of the
skin to remove the surface part of the skin. Chemical peels make the skin smoother, hence
improving the appearance of the skin. For instance, you may use a 15 TCA chemical peel.
Applying the chemical peel on the skin makes the skin turn red and peel for 3-7 days.
● Fillers
The filling procedure involves filling the scarred skin with collagen, fat, or hyaluronic acid. The
process requires a dermatologist to re-administer filler injections after a few months since the
skin absorbs the injected fillers.
● Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion procedure involves a dermatologist using instruments like the high-speed brush
to re-surface the skin, removing the scars or reducing the scars by reducing the scar depth.
● Micro-needling.
The micro-needling procedure is a collagen induction therapy. The dermatologist repeatedly
pricks the skin to stimulate collagen production. The production of collagen will help to reduce
the acne scar.
● Microdermabrasion
A microdermabrasion procedure involves a dermatologist removing the surface skin with
handheld devices. The process may be done more than once until the acne scar disappears.
● Laser Resurfacing Treatment
The procedure involves the dermatologist using a laser to eliminate the outer part of the skin
with an acne scar. The procedure also lightens the redness of the acne lesions. After the
procedure, patients take 3- 10 days to heal.
● Punch Excision
The surgical procedure, punch excision, helps to remove individual skin scars by cutting them
out using specialized devices. The space left after the cut is filled through a skin graft or
stitches. Therefore, the procedure will require you to book for minor surgery.
3. Over-the-Counter Remedies
Over-the-counter remedies are non-prescribed products that reduce the appearance of acne
scars. For instance, you may use hydroquinone to fade the scars. Other products like hydroxyl
acid promote the growth of new skins, hence reducing the appearance of acne scars.
4. Natural Remedies
Natural remedies involve using natural products such as coconut oil, shea butter, aloe vera,
lemon juice, honey, or apple cider vinegar. All these natural products have healing properties.
For instance, lemon juice reduces skin discoloration.
5. Diet Rich with Vitamins
Vitamins are essential in skincare. For instance, Vitamin A increases skin cell turn-over, hence
reducing the appearance of acne scars. Vitamin C is effective in fading and preventing the
development of black skin spots.
A Final Word on Acne Scars
Preventing acne scars is better than treatment. Therefore, you should avoid acne scars by
eating a balanced diet and a good skincare routine. However, always seek treatment and never
ignore acne scars since they reduce an individual’s self-esteem.
