EFFECTIVE WAYS TO HELP YOUR ACNE SCARS HEAL
You've moved past the active flare-up stage and now you're left with acne scars that are a reminder of your progress, but also a source of frustration. On your journey to finding clearer and healthier skin, the next step is diminishing your acne scars—but how?
It may seem like an almost impossible task, but with the right acne skincare products and practices, you can help your acne scars heal and get even closer to feeling confident in your skin.
UNDERSTANDING ACNE SCARS
Before you jump right into healing your acne scars, first understand the difference between acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Picture this: PIH is those dark spots that pop up right after a pimple or wound has healed, while acne scars are the lingering marks that stick around long after the healing process is done.
It's also important to note that not all acne scars are created equal. There are five types of acne scars, and knowing their distinctions gives you the power to treat them:
- Atrophic: Depressed, small holes in the skin from collagen loss. Treatment ranges from retinoic acid to chemical peels.
- Hypertrophic: Raised, keloid scars that are thicker than the surrounding skin. Treated with corticosteroid injections.
- Ice pick: Deep pits in the skin caused by large blemishes and cysts. Try out a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid to help the skin heal.
- Boxcar: Broad, angular depressions with sharp edges. This can be treated with retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).
- Rolling: Wavy shallow depressions in the skin that are caused by fibrosis. A combination of salicylic acid and microdermabrasion helps reduce the appearance of these scars.
Now, let’s get to the treatments.
TOPICAL TREATMENT FOR ACNE SCARS
As you embark on your skincare journey, you may be curious about the most effective treatments for acne scars. There are several topical options, including retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and salicylic acid. These ingredients work by stimulating collagen production, promoting skin renewal and resulting in reduced pore visibility and improved skin texture.
- Retinoids, derived from Vitamin A, are excellent for minimizing wrinkles, clearing breakouts and enhancing overall skin tone. Products like our Retinol Rejuvenation Serum are especially beneficial for individuals with mild acne scars who desire prompt results.
- AHAs, water-soluble acids, not only refine pores but also enhance skin texture and reduce inflammation. Look for a weightless serum like our Accelerator Gel with 20% Alpha Hydroxy Acids to moisturize and protect the skin.
- Salicylic acid is a wonderful choice for treating acne scars without causing skin irritation. Our Purifying Cleanser contains natural properties that help unclog pores, remove the top layer of dead skin cells and reveal healthier, fresher cells beneath.
As you begin to incorporate these products into your daily routine, it's important to note that results may take some time. With patience and consistency, you’ll discover a glowing difference in your skin.
OTHER EFFECTIVE ACNE SCAR TREATMENTS
If topical treatments aren't quite enough, don't give up hope. There are a variety of other effective treatments to try.
MICRONEEDLING
Microneedling is frequently used to reduce the appearance of acne scars; the process involves creating tiny punctures in the skin by using tiny, specialized needles. The micro-injuries stimulate collagen production, which promotes a smoother, more even skin tone.
CHEMICAL PEELS
Chemical peels are a great way to reduce the appearance of acne scars and uneven skin tone. They work by removing the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing smoother and brighter-looking skin underneath.
MICRODERMABRASION
Microdermabrasion works by sloughing away the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing a smoother and brighter complexion. The process also helps stimulate collagen production and cell turnover, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DERMATOLOGIST?
While there are more invasive procedures that dermatologists can perform in extreme cases, such as laser resurfacing, corticosteroid injections and even surgeries like punch excision, they are often a last resort.
In most instances, a consistent and well-curated skincare routine using the right acne skincare products can yield significant results. So, before you consider stepping into a clinic, explore what our array of carefully selected products can do for your skin.
POST-TREATMENT CARE AND SUN PROTECTION
After investing in these treatments, it's crucial to ensure that your skin receives the aftercare it needs to heal properly and maintain the treatment results. The key is to keep your skin hydrated to restore its barrier; use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser and a moisturizer suitable for your skin type, preferably containing hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
When it comes to adult acne, another vital aspect of post-treatment and overall skin health is sun protection. UV rays can darken acne scars, making them more noticeable. Our ultra-light Hydrating Protection Gel with SPF 30 can keep your skin both hydrated and protected as it heals.
PREVENTING ACNE SCARS WITH ACNE SKINCARE PRODUCTS
On top of treating your existing acne scars, the best way to keep them from appearing in the first place is to focus on preventing breakouts. This means diligently cleansing and moisturizing your skin every day with acne skincare products that contain active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or retinoids.
In addition, our Resurfacing Night Cream is a powerful addition to your healing journey; containing 15% glycolic acid, it actively exfoliates your skin overnight, promoting the removal of dead skin cells and encouraging new, fresh cells to come to the surface.
At the end of the day, acne scars should no longer be things that hold you back from loving your skin. It may take time to see results, but with consistent care and protection, the journey to clearer, healthier skin is well within your reach.
GlyMed Advanced Aesthetic Institute