How To Fade Dark Acne Scars

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% Aha Gel

Best for: fading hyperpigmentation and dark spots

This leave-on exfoliant works hard to slough away dead cells and regenerate the skin. The concentration of eight percent glycolic acid can even out the tone that is negatively affected by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and other issues related to discoloration. The plant extracts and antioxidants work together to firm up the skin and give off a brighter glow.

Soothe Skin And Reduce Spots With Almond Oil

Another skin-strengthening ingredient thats used both in the kitchen and on the complexion is sweet almond oil, which Engelman likes to use to treat discolorations in the skin. However, the almond oil commonly used to cook isnt quite the same as that used on the skin, which is often fortified with additional vitamins and minerals. The presence of Vitamin E and niacin help with hyperpigmentation and improving skin tone, she says. Because sweet almond oil is generally viewed as non-comedogenic you can add it to your nightly routine as a makeup remover or moisturizer meant to help protect the skin barrier.

Whats A Good Skin Care Routine For Fading Acne Scars

While you should defer to your dermatologist for a customized routine, Friedler recommended using a medicated antimicrobial cleanser in the morning, followed by oil-free sunscreen. In the evening, she recommended using a gentle cleanser followed by a topical retinoid.

Acne scar treatment products should generally be applied once per day. If they contain retinoids, they should only be applied at night because the sunlight can interfere with them, Fenton said. How frequently you use exfoliating agents such as retinols and glycolic acids depends on their strength and concentration. Some are designed to be used only weekly, so follow the products recommended use guide.

Its also important to remember that fading scars on the face is easier than fading them on the body, and it can take years for some people to fade discoloration from body acne, Fenton cautioned.

Want more guidance? Below, weve rounded up all of the dermatologists recommended acne scar products into one easy-to-browse list for you.

Take a look:

Read Also: How Do I Get Rid Of Acne On My Chest

What Is Mdacne Dark Spot Remover

Dark spot corrector by MDacne is the worlds first Kilgman’ formula alternative available for direct purchase without a prescription. Based on the Dermatologist gold standard, Kligmans formula contains the best available OTC skin lightening compound Arbutine, together with BHA and retinoids to enhance penetration and plant-based anti-inflammatory agents to minimalize irritation and side effects. Allowed for sensitive skin and all skin colors, dark spot removers should always be combined with morning sunscreen .

To find the right acne treatments for your unique skin, take the free skin assessment by .

Recomended Read

Effective Treatment Begins With Sunscreen

Whether youre treating the dark spots on your own or seeing a dermatologist, using sunscreen is essential when you’ll be outside. Applied daily, sunscreen can prevent new dark spots and patches. It can also help to clear existing ones.

Youll want to apply sunscreen to all skin that clothing wont cover.

To get the best result, dermatologists also recommend wearing a wide-brimmed hat when you’re outside.

Sunscreen is essential to effective treatment

To get the protection you need to prevent dark spots, use a sunscreen that offers all of the following:

• SPF 30 or higher
• One of the active ingredients titanium dioxide, zinc oxide
• Non-comedogenic formula if you have oily skin

Recommended Reading: How To Clear Up Nose Acne

How To Get Rid Of Old Acne Scars

The good news is that although some acne scars wont fade on their own, most can be removed with the right treatment.

Treatment for acne scars ranges from over-the-counter products to procedures such as surgery, chemical peeling and skin resurfacing.

Weve listed the most effective methods for treating acne scars below, along with more information on how each treatment option works.

Know When To Turn To Formulated Products

The DIY routine isnt for everyone, including some skin care professionals like Engelman, who says homemade remedies allow room for error as they arent formulated with the same ratios as formal products. If the natural masks and scrubs arent for you, there are a number of products designed with the same ingredients and packaged to last for more than a day or two.

And for the skin thats tackling all of the dark spot issues at once, Engelman points to Skinceuticals Discoloration Defense, which is clinically proven to improve dark patches, skin discoloration, and acne marks.

As with any skincare routine, the best way to eliminate dark spots is through prevention, which is easily done by protecting your skin from the sun. If you’re out and about during daylight hours, be sure to apply SPF , and consider adding a hat, sunglasses, and even gloves, especially if the sunlight will hit your skin for an extended period of time.

Don’t Miss: How To Get Rid Of Acne

How To Treat Dark Spots Caused By A Skin Care Product

When a skin or hair care product irritates your skin, the product can cause dark spots on your skin.

If you’re seeing dark spots, try using gentler products. They’re less likely to irritate your skin.

Products that are gentle on the skin are often labeled “for sensitive skin.” You may also see “fragrance-free” on the label.

When your skin in no longer irritated, new dark spots tend to stop appearing and existing spots often clear on their own over time.

Could a medication be causing your dark spots?

Dont stop taking it. That could make you very sick. Ask the doctor who prescribed the medication if discolored skin is a possible side effect. If it is, ask if you could switch to another medication.

Apply A Chinese Whitening Cream

After employing the lemon juice method mentioned above, you should immediately apply a Chinese whitening cream.

What is a Chinese whitening cream? You can find them at any Asian goods or grocery store. They work the best. I’ve been looking for an effective whitening cream on the market for a while and it wasn’t until after spending hundreds of dollars on expensive products that I decided to try the Chinese kind.

Where I live, using Chinese whitening creams is really popular. They work. They instantly lighten up your skin. I decided to try these products out on my scars as well.

• So, if you can find a Chinese drugstore near you, go ahead and check out the whitening creams Chin Chun Su or Top Gel. These are the best brands. They work like magic.
• Apply them right after washing the lemon juice off your skin. Make sure you rub the product gently on your dermis to allow it to penetrate deeper.

Also Check: Does Acne Go Away On Its Own

Lemon Juice Is Great To Remove Dark Spots

Image: 123rfBeing a citrus fruit, lemon has a high vitamin C content. It is also a famous ingredient in DIY home remedies for treating dull skin and extreme pigmentation. Applying a pack with lemon juice will benefit anyone with oily acne prone skin and it will fade away dark spots quickly.

Tip:Make a face mask of one tablespoon honey and one tablespoon lemon juice. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then rinse it off.

When To See A Dermatologist

Individuals with severe acne outbreaks may benefit from seeing a dermatologist. They can help a person find the most effective treatment and lower the chances of developing dark spots.

Although most people with dark spots see improvement without medical treatment, sometimes additional support is necessary. People may choose to see a dermatologist if dark spots interfere with their personal, social, or professional lives.

Don’t Miss: Can You Get Acne From Stress

Brighten/fade To Calm And Suppress Melanin Activity

When youre exfoliating the skin and removing dry, damaged surface cells, a skin brightening product can absorb deeper within the mark and help to settle down active melanin so the mark can go away faster. Many forms of vitamin C work very well to gently calm redness and fade acne scars. This can also help for PIE , which Ill discuss further in this post.

Best Products To Fade Acne Scars

Here are the reviews of top acne scar fading products available at top online retailers:

• Acne Scar Cream Hundreds of happy customers have given this product a 5 star rating. It promotes epidermal repair to encourage cell renewal. It is suitable for all skin types. The best part is that apart from fading old acne scars quickly it also prevents new acne breakouts.
• Vitamin C serum by Claire-ity This fantastic product contains vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. It is completely organic, so your skin is safe from harmful parabens, alcohol and other harsh ingredients. It can be safely used on all skin types and is also suited for mature skin.
• Rocco Acne scar fading cream This serum boosts collagen production to fade old acne red marks and scars. It contains Retinol as well as Vitamins C and B3. It is non oily, non sticky and paraben free.
• Evanesce old scar remover-This is an amazing product from NaturalScienceLabs®. It is an effective product for fading surgery scars, pimple scars, stretch marks and cosmetic surgery scars as well.

You May Like: Where Does Hormonal Acne Occur

Why Flat Acne Scars Form

Acne marks are known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and occur when the skin over-produces melanin. Studies show inflammation induces damage to cells in the epidermis, which causes them to release large amounts of melanin. A common cause of the inflammation that leads to this chain of events is none other than acne. This is especially common for people of color and those with darker skin tones.IV

How To Beat Acne Scarring On Black Skin

Breakouts are annoying but, for certain skin types, the aftermath can be even worse. You get a spot, you squeeze the spot and then youre left with an acne scar or hyperpigmentation that will last for months. This can happen to all skin types, but on black skin, in which melanin is more active, its probably going to be slightly more noticeable and take longer to fade. Thats why we caught up with aesthetician and founder of the Black Skin Directory, Dija Ayodele, to find out the best defence and offence tools to have in your arsenal to keep those pesky, persistent marks at bay.

With more than 12 years of experience in the beauty industry, Ayodele founded the Black Skin Directory after she noticed a pattern of black clients visiting her skincare clinic in London from as far as France, as they felt they didnt have anyone in their area who could deal with their particular skin issues.

Yet in 2020 its more difficult than ever before to access expert advice face-to-face, with Covid-19 restrictions and lockdowns providing yet another obstacle in the pursuit of flawless skin. Never fear, the below advice should help you on your way to achieving smooth, scar-free skin. Implement these tips now and leave 2020 glowing.

Don’t Miss: How To Prevent Acne Under Beard

What Is The Best Treatment For Acne Scars

Start with chemical exfoliation. Gross says using a product that offers gentle chemical exfoliation is the first step in healing scars. We like his Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel it has a blend of alpha and beta hydroxy acids that exfoliates dead, darkened scar skin cells while stimulating collagen production. He also says to look for anti-inflammatory and skin brightening ingredients in your serums and, such as vitamin C, a skin-brightening antioxidant, and vitamin E, which regenerates skin cells and improves the texture.

Farber agrees, recommending SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum, which has a high concentration of both antioxidants, as well as anti-aging ferulic acid. Chang says to look for topical treatments that contain retinoids, hydroquinone, and azelaic acid, which have all been proven to dramatically lighten dark marks and even melasma. Her favorite picks are the Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum and Skinbetter AlphaRet Overnight Cream. A word of caution: hydroquinone, a skin-bleaching agent, should only be used under the care and supervision of a dermatologist, since it can potentially lighten healthy skin, too.

For darker skin, Davis loves using retinoids such as ProActiveMD Adapalene Gel to help fade the dark spots. She also recommends using an ingredient like tranexamic acid as it helps pigment correction, brown spots, and PIH by evening out skin tone. Her favorite picks include SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 or SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense.

Types Of Acne Scarring

To help you identify which type of acne scar you might be dealing with, we also put together a quick at-a-glance view of common acne scars. While they all vary in appearance, Hartman highlighted these names are just descriptors for the different shapes of acne scars. Theyre all the same thing and just come about from different severities of acne breakouts and lesions, he said.

You May Like: Who To Go To For Acne

How To Fade Dark Scars On Legs

I spent a lot of time finding the best way to fade dark scars on my legs. I used to be the jeans/pants type of girl. That is mostly because I couldnt fathom the idea of wearing short pants or skirts and showing my scarred legs in the process.

My scars are mostly dark marks. They were caused by a severe case of skin allergies from when I was younger. Now, I really regret the days when I didnt go the extra mile to take care of my skin. Since showing a bit of skin is the trend, and I enjoy the look and feel as well, I had to look for various ways to fade those dark scars on my legs.

In this article, you’ll learn a couple of my secrets on how to fade dark scars on legs or scars on any part of your body for that matter. Good luck!

Exfoliate To Dissolve And Lift Away Discoloration From Damaged Cells

When cells are damaged and discoloration has formed, using a gentle acid exfoliant will work very well to loosen these cells from the skins surface. Also, a gentle facial scrub massaged very lightly over the area twice a week is very effective to ensure these loosened cells are getting lifted off the skin. This will reveal the healthy, even-toned skin underneath. The combination of a chemical and physical exfoliant will be very beneficial to fade acne scars.

Also Check: What Face Oils Are Good For Acne

How To Fade Acne Marks 9 Best Remedies That Work Quickly

Acne tends to leave behind ugly scarring which could take, weeks or even months to fade away completely. And even then, it does not go away completely you still have to deal with tiny spots and blemishes which seem to worsen with age. Today, we will discuss top home remedies for getting rid of acne scars quickly:

Acne Scarring Fading Over Time With Treatment

The first 3 years I had acne scarring, I didnt treat it at all except for trying a few different creams, which didnt have any long-term positive effects other than making my skin look really white and oily.

Finally I started researching what actually works and reading scientific journals to get to the heart of ingredients and procedures that actually help stimulate skin healing responses, skin repair and results.

After that I started using at-home micro-needling every few weeks, and applying copper peptide serum on my skin at night, and Vitamin C and an exfoliating serum on my skin each morning.

Ive seen huge improvements in my indented acne scarring and skin texture in over a year Ive been doing this and my scarring has faded to the point Im finally happy with my skin again.

Here is my skin and its results over time:

Additional before and after acne scarring pictures can be viewed here.

Read Also: How Does Salicylic Acid Work On Acne

Are Certain Skin Tones More Prone To Acne Scarring And Hyperpigmentation

Acne scarring and hyperpigmentation can occur in all skin types, but they occur more commonly in people with darker skin tones. This is because the darker the skin tone, the higher levels of melanin in the skin.

Whenever there is a trauma to the skin, in this case, a pimple, the melanin cells in the skin produce even more melanin to defend and protect against that trauma. When our skin produces more melanin than usual, it manifests as darker skin, discoloration, dark spots, or patches, which all fall under the umbrella of hyperpigmentation.

Differin Gel Adapalene Gel

Differin Gel is the No. 1 bestselling skin care product among Shopping readers in 2020 and it earned a recommendation from Garshick who noted it contains adapalene, an ingredient that prevents breakouts, treats acne and improves acne scarring. She advised you use it only a few times a week to start and increase the frequency to once daily as necessary. Differin Gel boasts a 4.5-star average rating from more than 31,580 reviews on Amazon.

Don’t Miss: Can Birth Control Cause Acne

Kick Things Off With The Right Cleanser

Morning and night, thoroughly cleanse your face with a mild cleanser to remove impurities from the skins surface. We recommend Clearly Corrective Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, which contains pearlstone, a natural exfoliant derived from volcanic ash. This gentle yet effective ingredient helps remove buildup from the skins surface for a brighter, smoother-looking complexion.