Acne scars: What are the best treatments?

It is essential to treat acne first to avoid future scarring.

When blemishes have disappeared, you are often left with red or brown marks which develop when the inflammation from breakouts damages the collagen in your skin. 

This hyperpigmentation (post-inflammatory pigmentation) occurs as the skin heals, so although they are called scars, as long as they are red or brown, they will fade – and can fade faster with the help of the right skincare routine.  

Ingredients Most Effective at Treating Acne Scars?

Vitamin C 

Vitamin C prevents free radical damage while also helping to reduce pigment changes and brightening the skin.

It also increases collagen production,  vital for rebuilding healthy skin. 

 

Salicylic Acid

Chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid (a BHA) are a must when combating acne scars.

 

AHA's like Glycolic acid & lactic acid help to remove dead skin cells on the top layer of the skin, leaving a fresher appearance and improving skin tone and blemishing.

With each layer that is removed, the scars will become lighter and less obvious. Although to experience the full benefit it needs to be done daily. 

AHA's can be found in many skin care products like cleansers, toners, serums & moisturisers.

 

For more intense exfoliation, try at-home peels, that contain AHA's and may be used once a week.

 

 

Retinols 

Retinol essentially helps to boost collagen production, speed up cell turnover, tighten pores, smooth skin texture, brighten the complexion, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and scarring.

If you suffer from sensitive skin and rosacea, Bakuchiol can be used as a gentle alternative to retinol.

 

DEVICES

Microdermabrasion 

Microdermabrasion removes and renews the surface level of the skin revealing a fresher, smoother complexion.

 

LED Light 

Red light therapy helps promote healing and may work to decrease the visibility of acne scarring. Red lights stimulate collagen and elastin, to reveal glowing, healthy skin.

 

 

Microneedling 

Microneedling can help the appearance of acne scars by promoting new collagen by stimulating the skin to repair itself, for smoother, younger-looking skin.

 

PROTECT