Acne scars are indentations in the skin that sometimes form from broken pimples; they are a disfiguring and permanent sign. After an acne breakout, the affected area of skin discolours (hyperpigmentation) and takes on a hue based on your skin type. If you have fair skin, the markings are usually pink, red, or purple. If you have dark skin, they can be brown or black where there was acne before. If there is damage in the deep layers of the skin, pigment spots (called macules) appear during the healing phase, which can last up to months. Try these methods to minimize or get rid of red acne marks.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Home Treatments
Step 1. Use vitamin A in gel or cream
It can prevent scarring and cleans pores, reducing further breakouts. Apply it twice a day, after washing your face.
Step 2. Use an antioxidant cream (containing vitamin C)
This can help protect the skin from UV (ultraviolet) rays. Consult your pharmacist or doctor before starting this treatment.
Step 3. Apply beta-hydroxy acid (HMB) to the skin every day
Contains salicylic acid which, penetrating inside the pores, dissolves dirt and exfoliates the skin. The acne marks will fade faster and fewer breakouts should form.
Step 4. Protect your skin with sunscreen
The skin heals faster if it is not damaged by the sun.
Method 2 of 2: Medical Treatments
Step 1. Research has made great strides in treating acne scars
Some of these methods are more invasive than others.
- Chemical peeling. A professional applies an acid that removes the upper layers of the skin and helps prevent color changes.
- Laser treatments. Ablative lasers burn scar tissue; they are usually performed by a plastic surgeon. After the treatment, the skin turns red for some time, perhaps even for a year. It is essential to take care of the skin after treatment to prevent infections.
- Dermabrasion. After local anesthesia, a rotating wire brush removes the upper layers of the skin. This has the effect of a smoothing. Where the skin has been removed, new skin forms. This is done by a plastic surgeon or dermatologist.
- Injectable filler. Collagen is injected under the skin. This treatment helps make acne scars less noticeable, but the effect only lasts a few months; it can be performed by a beautician.
- High intensity pulsed light. This treatment is usually done by a dermatologist; allows the formation of a new skin and does not damage the outer layer. In this way, the signs of acne decrease.
- Surgery. In extreme cases, it can be used to remove acne scars.
Advice
- Don't put off acne treatments. If you start to suffer early, the sooner you intervene, the less chance there is for the red marks to become scars.
- Be patient, the red marks will eventually go away.
