Here’s how to get rid of acne scars.
1. First things first, moisturize.
Scars tissue tends to be dry skin, which, in turn, causes inflammation around the scar and can even prevent healing. If you want to reduce the appearance of a scar, you need to get your skin to heal and stop being inflamed.
2. Stay out of the sun, please!
Sunlight really doesn’t help acne scarring. In fact, it worsens it and makes the scar appear darker. Being exposed to light is pretty inevitable, but that doesn’t mean you should just accept it as inevitable. Try to wear a hat outdoors and do what you can to avoid sunlight.
3. Even though it’s tempting, don’t pick at acne.
That causes irritation and inflammation. If you’re picking away at acne scarring, then you have an even worse issue. Too much scratching and picking can spread the bacteria that caused acne, make your scars larger, and also double the time it takes to heal up.
4. Use a scar fading cream.
It’s best to use them daily for at least a month or two so that they’re given a full chance to work. They aren’t miracle workers, though, so be reasonable when it comes to your scar’s appearance.
5. You also might want to go light on cosmetics for the time being.
If your acne scars are relatively new: That means that your skin is super-sensitive right now and could easily become infected if you put the wrong substances over your acne scar. Any form of cosmetics probably shouldn’t go near your breakout area until it’s fairly healed up.
I know it can be hard to go without makeup, so if you really can’t handle the temptation, then at least opt for non-comedogenic, fragrance-free makeup. This will reduce irritation and won’t clog pores.
6. Consider dabbing on some niacinamide.
Niacinamide is a vitamin that has been linked to a lot of good stuff for your skin, and one of the things it’s linked to is a reduction in skin darkening — also known as hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is permanent, and when your scar is fresh, it’s very likely that it could darken up if exposed to the elements.
Adding a drop or two of niacinamide to your acne scars can help prevent darkening.
7. Go for a microneedling session or two.
One of the newest treatments people are using to get rid of acne scars is microneedling, and it’s it’s done by using a roller with tons of little spikes to poke tiny holes in your skin. This helps promote the creation of collagen, which promotes skin healing and the reduction in scar appearance.
8. Do a monthly visit to a spa for a facial.
If there is one group of people who understand what’s good for skin, it’s people who work in skincare. The best way to figure out what you need and also get it at a professional quality level is to hit up a local spa for a facial that they suggest. They will be able to help you figure out what your skin needs and put together a customized treatment.
There are so many different spa treatments that have been linked to better scar appearance. Your ideal treatment can vary pretty greatly. Some might get microdermabrasion, others might get laser treatments, while even more might find that they are best matched with chemical peels.
9. Go to the dermatologist for a prescription treatment.
Are you really, really worried about how to get rid of acne scars? Is it a little more than the usual blotchiness? If your acne scarring is seriously bothersome, it may be time to haul out the big guns, so to speak.
A quick trip to the dermatologist’s office can help you get a prescription for specialized scar fading creams.
10. Consider getting dermal fillers if your acne scars are pitted.
Acne, when it’s really bad, can cause craters. That’s when getting rid of acne scars the traditional way will not be enough. Believe it or not, getting dermal fillers can help you get where you want to be in terms of looks.
Much like prescription solutions, you will probably need a dermatologist to work this magic. That being said, it’s so worth it.
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