Facial Acne Scar Treatment

Acne is troublesome when it crops up on your complexion, but it becomes a big hassle when it leaves a scar in its wake. Acne scars typically appear as red marks and tend to last weeks or even months after the original pimple has disappeared. Acne scars and associated skin discolorations are easily treatable with over-the-counter products. Does this Spark an idea?

Exfoliation

The natural way to lighten and fade acne scars is by exfoliating. Exfoliating the skin sloughs off the top layer of skin cells and unearths the layer of skin directly underneath, which has the potential to be fresh and unmarred. Using a scrub that contains fine grains or gently rubbing the area with a dry skin brush are two methods of swiping away surface-level skin cells. Repeated exfoliation is typically necessary to completely rid acne scars. Exfoliate at least once a week until the scar fades.

Peels

Several over-the-counter peels are now available to help make acne scars disappear. Fading peels reduce the appearance of acne scars and decrease redness in scars. Fading peels usually contain a 2% salicylic acid or glycolic acid solution that fades scars and prevents future breakouts.

Salicylic acid is an effective acne and scar treatment because it weakens the bonds between skin cells and encourages exfoliation with very little risk of irritation. If you choose a peel with glycolic acid, it will help to stimulate collagen production in the underlying layers of skin, which will eventually emerge (with regular exfoliation) scar-free. Use the peel two to three times weekly for optimal results.

Spot Treatments

Acne spot treatments are formulated to fight pimples when they first appear, and also to help diminish post-acne scarring. These gels contain a 2% salicylic acid solution. To fade a pimple and prevent scarring, dab a bit of gel directly onto the pimple with a cotton swab before going to sleep. Avoid using your fingers, as this can transfer bacteria from your hands to the pimple, further irritating it. In the morning, wash your face. This will help to prevent scarring.

If scarring does occur, continue to apply the gel nightly to the affected area. In time, the gel works to fade the scar.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a procedure performed by dermatologists and in medical spas that sweeps away the top layer of skin. Aluminum oxide or magnesium oxide crystals are blasted on the face with a machine. The microdermabrasion machine employs positive pressure to disperse the crystals and creates a vacuum-like suction effect to suck up the crystals. The machine also increases circulation throughout the procedure. Patients may feel a slight warming sensation during the procedure but should not feel pain. Only a dermatologist or a certified medical professional who give an expert opinion can determine if microdermabrasion is right for you.

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that swipes off the outer layer of skin cells where skin is scarred, and unveils a fresh layer of clear skin. It is typically performed in a dermatologists' office, a medical spa, or an outpatient surgical facility. During this procedure, a concentrated laser is directed at acne scars on the face. In the areas where the laser is pointed, surface layer skin cells are eliminated and, with it, the acne scar. A fresh, scar-free layer of skin emerges in the laser's wake. See your dermatologist for a professional medical opinion before considering laser resurfacing.