In a series of previous articles, we have discussed different ways to get rid of acne naturally through a good skin care routine, herbal products, a good diet, and medical care.
However, the journey doesn’t stop there. Acne can sometimes leave blemishes and scars after they heal which can last for several months or even years for more extreme cases. The followings are the different types of acne scars and how to remove them.
Hyperpigmentations
Hyperpigmentations are the blemishes or dark spots left by acne resulting from an overproduction of melanin. They are usually more commonly found on the face. These spots will fade away in time, but you can also help speed up the process.
Face creams and gels
You may want to use lightening creams that can be purchased over the counter at your local pharmacy or drugstore. Avoid ones that contain hydroquinone, as it has been regarded as a possible cancer-causing substance. Instead, go for those that contain ingredients like Vitamin C, mulberry extract, licorice extract, arbutin, and kojic acid.
In addition, you may try products, such as creams and gels, that contain retinoid. These are usually more expensive than skin lightening creams, but they tend to work faster.
Not only are they used for treating acne scars, but they are also helpful for acne itself as well as wrinkles and fine lines.
They work by speeding up the turnover of cells and increasing the production of collagen. It is important to note that retinoid products should only be used at night because they are sensitive to UV rays and protection against the sun is important during the use of the treatment.
However, if your natural skin tone is darker, especially if you are of African descent, do not use skin lightening creams as they may potentially remove melanin permanently, resulting in an even worse blemish.
Exfoliants
Another option is to use products that contain salicylic acid or glycolic acid as the main ingredient. They come in many forms, such as ointments, scrubs, and creams.
These two acids are amazing exfoliants that help your skin get rid of dead cells to reveal a new layer of skin. This way, eventually, the hyperpigmented layer will be revealed and get rid of.
Chemical peels and microdermabrasion
If you do not wish to wait long, you can visit a dermatologist and ask for a glycolic chemical peel. It works similarly with the topical products, but it will go through deeper layers of skin.
Other types of chemical peels would also help. Note that chemical peels are harsher than the other treatments available but should be considered if you are not seeing any improvements after using topical products.
During a chemical peel, the dermatologist will apply a very potent acidic solution to the affected areas of your skin. This solution will burn your skin’s outer layers to reveal new and fresh skin.
The last option to consider is microdermabrasion. It works similarly with chemical peels, but the dead skin cells are removed through the use of a rotating wire brush.
Atrophic scar
These scars are pitted and depressed resulting from collagen damage.
It can be classified into three kinds:
- Rolling scars which are small, sloped indentations that give off a wavy appearance.
- Boxcar scars are well-defined and look like craters.
- Icepick scars look like narrow, tiny holes.
Like hyperpigmentations, atrophic scars are usually found on the face. However, they are more difficult and more expensive to get rid of.
More often than not, they will require the services of a dermatologist. The most effective way to get rid of atrophic scars is through different medical care treatment options like laser treatments.
This, however, is also the most expensive method. Filler injections are also helpful and not as expensive as laser treatments, but you need to get it done two to three times a year until the scars are completely gone.
Hypertrophic scar
These scars appear in the form of raised, thick bumps. They are usually found on your back and chest. The most affordable treatment method is through the use of silicone gel or sheets.
Apply it every night and rinse it off or remove it when you wake up. After a couple of weeks, the raised skin should start to even out. If you are looking a faster way to heal hypertrophic scars you can try cortisone injections. However, it is more expensive.
It is also important to remember that if acne is the cause of these scars, you should act accordingly and make sure to avoid it again by maintaining a healthy diet and skincare routine even after successful treatment.
Do you have acne scars? If the answer is yes, the first step is to determine what kind of acne scar you have so you can get the corresponding treatment for it.
If you need information to understand more about acne and how to prevent it, read the articles listed below.
The different classification of acne
What are the different types of acne scars and can they be removed?
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