What Are The Different Types Of Acne Scars
Hyperpigmentation: the term “acne scar” is often misused when referring to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation . These are post-acne marks that aren’t technically scars but rather dark spots left on the skin after a pimple heals. They can range in color from dark brown to reddish, to pink, depending on skin tone and severity but tend not to be textured .Atrophic Scars: These depressed or raised scars can be divided into different groups Icepick scars: Deep, narrow scars that appear like pinpoint pits .Rolling acne scars: Broad, inconsistent depressions that give the skin a wave-like appearance.Boxcar scars: Sharply defined, pitted scars that are depressed with steep borders. These are usually round or oval and tend to appear on the temples and the cheeks. Boxcar scars are more difficult to treat than another type of acne scar.Hypertrophic scars: Raised, tough scars caused by overproduction of collagen during the skin healing process. Keloid scars are similar but extend beyond the size of the original wound.
Moisturize With Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a tropical plant whose leaves produce a clear gel. The gel is often added to lotions, creams, ointments, and soaps.
Its commonly used to treat abrasions, rashes, burns, and other skin conditions. When applied to the skin, aloe vera gel can help heal wounds, treat burns, and fight inflammation .
Aloe vera contains salicylic acid and sulfur, which are both used extensively in the treatment of acne. Research has found that applying salicylic acid to the skin reduces acne (
While research shows promise, the anti-acne benefits of aloe vera itself require further scientific research.
What Are Acne Scars
Acne scars are a result of acne, a common skin condition that affects 20% of Canadians. Acne affects people of all ages and causes inflammation and blemishes on the skin, such as whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. Depending on the severity of acne symptoms, nodules, pustules, and cystic lesions often lead to scarring. The skins healing response is to repair the skin by forming new collagen fibres. These extra fibres can cause permanent raised marks or indentations in the skin tissue.
Scar tissue in the form of raised skin or indentations can result in:
- Uneven skin texture
- Itchy and uncomfortable skin conditions
- Pain to surrounding nerve endings
- Lowered self-esteem
Depending on your skin type and condition, our specialists may recommend microneedling or facial peel treatments or dermabrasion facials to help reduce the appearance of blemishes and acne scars on the skin. Dermabrasion and skin peels are a helpful form of treatment for milder acne scarring. For patients with more severe scars or deep lines and wrinkles, microneedling or laser resurfacing treatments are a safe and effective alternative. Facial Treatments for Skin Texture and Scarring:
- Microneedling
- Laser resurfacing treatments
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The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + Ha Spheres 2%
Best for: Hyperpigmentation
This water-free vitamin C serum works to brighten overall skin tone and combat the signs of aging. Because it is free of water, the 30% pure L-ascorbic acid remains stable. The addition of the dehydrated spheres of hyaluronic acid smooths the surface of the skin, working to reduce the appearance of acne scarring. The product works best when applied at night, although you may use it during the morning as well. Some users report a slight tingling sensation during the first few weeks of use. If the tingling is bothersome, you can dilute the serum with your favorite face cream to negate the sensation. In brief, this vitamin C treatment is a good choice for people with mild hyperpigmentation.
Makeup Artists Choice 25% Mandelic Acid Peel

Best Chemical Peel for Minor Acne Scarring
This peel from Makeup Artists Choice uses mandelic acid, another AHA that is even less irritating than lactic acid. Mandelic acid has a larger molecular structure, which means it takes longer to penetrate the skins surface, leading to less irritation. That said, this peel still exfoliates the skin to diminish scars and improve the appearance of the skin. Mandelic acid doesnt cause skin lightening, so this is one of the best chemical peels for acne scars for those with darker skin tones.
How to Use: Cleanse and dry the skin. Apply a thin layer of the peeling serum all over the skin. Leave on for 3 to 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Use once a week for the first 2 weeks, then every 4 days.
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The Ordinary Vitamin C
The Ordinary has quite a few Vitamin C options available at the moment.
The ordinary vitamin C we are taking in this article is The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%.
This vitamin C is great for treating hyperpigmentation and evening skin tone.
Vitamin C | The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% | brightens skin tone / anti aging / reduces acne scars |
Apart from that, this vitamin C will be great for any anti-aging routine.
This vitamin c serum has a concentrated blend of vitamin c and hyaluronic acid.
Which is very powerful for brightening and smoothing the skin.
NOTE: Be aware that vitamin C may cause conflicts when used in conjunction with some other products, as for example the butter serum. Also if you have very sensitive skin, certify that your skin wont get hyper sensitive and irritated.
What Results Can You Expect
The advanced treatments performed by dermatologists help in reducing the depth, size and visibility of scars. They help in improving the texture of the scarred tissue and giving you blemish-free skin.
However, the results may vary depending on the severity of the scars, skin type, the modality of treatment selected, the technology available and the expertise of the dermatologist performing the procedure.
Now you know all about treatments for deep-pitted scars. Go ahead and consult an experienced dermatologist at your nearest Oliva Skin & Hair Clinic to find out a suitable procedure for you and make an informed decision.
Common Questions
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Azelaic Acid: Helps Pih
Also an antioxidant, azelaic acid boosts the rate in which cells replace themselves. This naturally-occurring acid is primarily used to treat conditions such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation because of its ability to reduce inflammation of the skin. Depending on the concentration of the active ingredient, azelaic acid is available either over the counter or through prescription. The acid is a good choice as part of a comprehensive treatment protocol that includes the use of glycolic acid or topical retinoids.
How To Fade Pesky Dark Spots
Whether you call them acne scars, dark spots, or hyperpigmentation, the discolored marks left behind by acne are no fun to deal with. Once you’ve solved the battle of getting rid of those pesky pimples, working on fading the signs they left behind can feel like yet another puzzle. While acne pit scars the ones that leave divots in your skin can only be treated with medical procedures like fillers or microneedling, hyperpigmentation, aka “dark spots,” have plenty of over-the-counter solutions. Scroll through for the best acne scar treatments and skin-care products to help you wipe away your dark spots in no time with picks from SkinCeuticals, Pond’s, CeraVe, and more.
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What Is Acne Scarring
The term “scarring” refers to a fibrous process in which new collagen is laid down to heal a full-thickness injury. It affects 30% of those with moderate or severe acne vulgaris. It is particularly common in nodulocystic acne, acne conglobata and acne fulminans. It may also be a long-term consequence of infantile acne.
To reduce the chance of scarring, seek treatment for your acne early. Severe acne can often be cured.
Acne scarring
How Do You Get Rid Of Acne Scars Overnight
Acne breakouts are common and quite frustrating. They may leave scars on the face and can trigger anxiety in teens and adults. Professional treatment of acne scars has shown excellent results but needs six to eight weeks to work.
There is no magic potion to get radiant, scar-free skin overnight, but there are excellent makeup products that can hide your acne scars.
If you want radiant skin, a regular skincare routine is key. This must be coupled with a healthy diet, a good exercise regimen, and stress relief techniques to avoid acne in the first place and eventually achieve clear and healthy skin.
Below are a few common ways to get rid of acne scars. These will take time to work, so you must be regular and diligent in their application. Always do a patch test behind your earlobe to check if you are allergic to any of these ingredients.
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How Do I Prepare For Dermabrasion
Before your treatment, your doctor will give you a physical examination, review your medical history, and discuss your risks and expectations. Tell your doctor about any medications youre taking, including over-the-counter medicine and nutritional supplements.
You may need to stop taking them because they could increase your bleeding risk or adversely darken your skin. Tell your doctor if you have taken isotretinoin in the past year.
Your doctor will also recommend that you not smoke for a few weeks before and after your treatment. Smoking not only causes premature aging of the skin, but it also decreases blood flow to the skin and slows the healing process.
Your doctor will also advise you about sun exposure. Too much sun exposure without proper protection two months before dermabrasion can cause skin discoloration. You will also be advised to avoid sun exposure while your skin is healing and to use sunscreen daily once healed.
Your doctor may also recommend that you use the following before dermabrasion:
- antiviral medication: use before and after dermabrasion treatment to prevent viral infections
- oral antibiotic: this will prevent a bacterial infection, which is especially important if you have acne
- retinoid cream: derived from vitamin A, this cream helps promote healing
Youll also want to arrange for a ride home after the procedure. The after-effects of anesthesia may make it unsafe to drive.
What Are Pitted Acne Scars

Pitted acne scars are also called atrophic acne scars. They are the hollow, indented marks formed on the skin after a severe acne breakout. They look sunken compared to the other areas of the skin. They affect the skins texture and may become permanent if not treated soon. They are caused by a sudden loss of collagen that occurs during the skin healing process.
But what causes pitted acne scars? Keep reading to know.
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What Are The Best Treatment Creams For People With Scars
Retinoids, derivatives of vitamin A, are known to exfoliate and remove the dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin and increase the cell turnover in the epidermis. Using retinoids can also help slow the loss of collagen fiber and promote new collagen production in the dermis, increasing the skin’s strength and elasticity. Bonus, retinoids can also make your epidermis thicker, which improves skin texture.
What To Do First
Acne scars are created when skin tissue is damaged. Doing things like picking at and popping pimples can definitely damage your skin and cause scarring. But even if you’re really careful with your skin, scars can still develop.
Severe blemishes, those that are very inflamed, are more likely to scar. Some people are just very prone to scarring with even minor blemishes leaving scars.
If you have noticed some scarring, there are a few things you can do. First things firstacne needs to be brought under control. If you haven’t seen a dermatologist yet, do it.
If you’re already being treated by a dermatologist, follow their directions exactly and let them know if you have any concerns. Once your skin is fairly clear, then you can decide on what steps need to be taken next.
Don’t waste time using over-the-counter products. If acne is scarring your skin, getting on a prescription acne treatment ASAP will help minimize scarring.
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What Is The Best Moisturizer For People With Acne Scars And Post
Cleansing the skin should’ve always followed by a moisturizer, preferably an active one. One of the best active ingredients for people with acne-prone skin and post-acne scars is niacinamide. Niacinamide is regarded as one of the top skincare treatment ingredients. It minimizes and tightens enlarged skin pores, strengthens the skin’s natural protective layer, and helps balance oil production. Also, it improves uneven skin tone, reduces skin redness, and diminishes skin dullness.
Applying Niacinamide around the eyes reduces the appearance of under the eye dark circles and wrinkles on the eyes’ sides . Niacinamide based moisturizers are great for all skin types, including sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.
Niacinamide hed has been shown to increase the production of ceramides. Ceramides, found in our skin’s outermost layer, help the skin form a healthy barrier that keeps water in and toxic environmental elements out. Clinical studies have also shown applicating over several months can reduce skin sallowness and lead to fresher, younger-looking skin. In one study, researchers found that skin treated with a moisturizer containing 5% Niacinamide showed a significant reduction in hyperpigmentation with lightening of dark marks and age spots.
Drunk Elephant Tlc Sukari Babyfacial Mask
Best Chemical Peel for Hyperpigmentation
This mask has a strong 25% concentration of an AHA blend that includes glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric acid. It also has a 2% concentration of salicylic acid. These acids work together to resurface the skin, revealing a smooth surface and an even skin tone. Drunk Elephants mask also contains a variety of plant extracts that calm the skin. The formula is free of essential oils, silicones, and fragrances, and is vegan and cruelty-free.
How to Use: Cleanse and dry the skin. Apply an even layer all over the skin, and then leave it on for up to 20 minutes. Rinse the product thoroughly when done. Use once weekly.
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Powerful Home Remedies For Acne
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting an estimated 85% of young adults .
Conventional acne treatments like salicylic acid, niacinamide, or benzoyl peroxide are proven to be the most effective acne solutions, but they can be expensive and have undesirable side effects, such as dryness, redness, and irritation.
This has prompted many people to look into remedies to cure acne naturally at home. In fact, one study found that 77% of acne patients had tried alternative acne treatments .
Many home remedies lack scientific backing, and further research on their effectiveness is needed. If youre looking for alternative treatments, though, there are still options you can try.
This article explores 13 popular home remedies for acne.
What Are The Features Of Persistent Scarring
Unfortunately, true acne scars never completely disappear, although their appearance usually improves with time. They can be disguised with make-up .
The following types of scar occur in acne:
- Ice-pick scars these are deep, narrow, pitted scars
- Rolling scars broad depressions with a sloping edge
- Boxcar scars broad depressions with sharply defined edges
- Atrophic scars flat, thin scars or depressed scars
- Hypertrophic or keloid scars thick lumpy scars.
Acne scarring
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Treatments for acne scars are typically intensive, the best results coming from lasers, injections and fillers best handled by medical professionals, experts told us. There are, however, some solid home treatments you can consider if you want to improve the appearance of acne scars. To understand how some of these at-home treatments work and what their limitations are we consulted dermatologists and found some highly rated options to consider based on their guidance.
Before you choose an at-home treatment, it’s important to understand what acne scars are, what they aren’t and when to differentiate them from hyperpigmentation, dark spots caused by inflammatory skin issues like acne and eczema, according to board-certified dermatologist Corey Hartman, MD. While hyperpigmentation can fade away on its own within 12 months, acne scars are permanent textural changes like bumps and roughness, according to Hartman. Since people with darker skin tones naturally have more melanin in their skin, they are more likely to experience hyperpigmentation due to those aforementioned inflammatory skin issues, explained Arisa Ortiz, MD, the director of laser and cosmetic dermatology at UC San Diego.
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.
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Whats The Difference Between An Aha And A Bha
Another commonly used acid on the skincare market is called beta-hydroxy acid . Unlike AHAs, BHAs are primarily derived from one source: salicylic acid. You may recognize salicylic acid as an acne-fighting ingredient, but this isnt all it does.
Like AHAs, salicylic acid helps to exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells. This can help clear blackheads and whiteheads by unclogging pores made from trapped dead skin cells and oil in the hair follicles.
BHAs may be just as effective as AHAs for acne, texture improvements, and sun-related discoloration. Salicylic acid is also less irritating, which may be preferable if you have sensitive skin.
If you have more than one skin concern, you might experiment with both AHAs and BHAs, but you should approach with caution. AHAs may be more appropriate for age-related skin concerns, while BHAs might be best if you have sensitive, acne-prone skin. For the latter, you might consider using BHAs every day, such as a salicylic acid toner, and then use a weekly AHA-containing skin peel for deeper exfoliation.
When using multiple products for your skin, its important to incorporate them into your regimen gradually. Using too many AHAs, BHAs, and chemicals at once can cause irritation. In turn, this can make wrinkles, acne, and other skin concerns more noticeable.