HOW TO LIGHTEN ACNE SCARS IN AN EFFECTIVE MANNER

Unexpected pimples are very annoying and frustrating, but when they leave a dark spot or scar behind, the situation is made even worse. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne scarring is a normal part of the healing process as the skin attempts to repair the damage caused by the breakout. Collagen is produced during the procedure, allowing the skin to regenerate.

Some of the individuals are fortunate enough to experience post-breakout spots that come and go without leaving a scar. However, for the majority of people, these scars grow quite stubborn, take a toll on their emotions, and ultimately become a source of shame and embarrassment.

Here is how to get started on lightening acne scars!

Sunscreen Is Essential

The first piece of advice is to purchase and use an effective sunscreen. Numerous dermatologists concur that the sun's UV rays and visible light both make acne lesions darker. Additionally, if you are taking an acne medication that primarily contains salicylic acid and retinoids, your skin is more susceptible to sunburns and UV rays. Therefore, you must wear sunscreen every day. However, the sunscreen you select for your acne-prone skin should be non-comedogenic, non-greasy, lightweight, and oil-free (do not clog pores). The incorrect product may even make things worse.

You can use some effective substances that have been shown to lighten acne scars:

Vitamin C

Antioxidant vitamin C reduces redness by scavenging free radicals. Due to its healing abilities, scars become lighter as collagen production and cell turnover are accelerated.

Retinol

Topical retinol, also known as a retinoid, is very effective at lightening acne scars because it reduces acne lesions, blocks inflammation, and speeds up cell renewal.

Acid azelaic

Natural grains like wheat and barley contain this acid. It is very effective in treating acne and the scars caused by it. It functions by reducing inflammation, unclogging pores, and boosting cell turnover so that your skin approaches rapid healing and leaves fewer acne scars.

PIE or PIH?

The kind and nature of the scars also affect how long it takes and how well the product works. Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE), produces red marks in people with light skin tone, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), typically causes brown or black marks in people with dark skin. It's crucial to recognize the appropriate scar and treat it accordingly. The effectiveness of the serum you are using, the state of your acne at the time, and your age all play a role in how long the process takes to remove acne scars.

Here are some bonus tips on preventing, reducing, and removing acne scars

How can acne scars be avoided?

Scarring or acne cannot always be avoided, but people with acne can take precautions to lessen the risks involved.

These include getting treatment as soon as acne appears and refraining from picking, popping, or otherwise interacting with the condition because doing so increases the risk of infection and scarring.

How are acne scars and discoloration treated?

There are several techniques to get rid of or minimize acne scars, based on the kind and degree of scarring. For instance, fillers can improve acne scars that are indented or atrophic. The use of laser therapy may lessen hyperpigmentation and smooth elevated scars.

Conclusion

Acne can be effectively and affordably treated with a good skincare regimen that includes sunscreen and a product with the ingredients listed above. It is important to note that physical exfoliation should be avoided in favor of chemical exfoliation because the latter can be very harsh on the skin and can even make the marks worse by darkening them.

In general, it takes at least 3 to 6 months for any good product to effectively treat your acne and lighten the scars. Thus, take your time and be consistent.