The Truth About Acne Scars

It's hard enough to fight acne.  But what is a person to do if these breakouts leave long lasting marks and scars on the skin? Acne scars result from constant damage to the skin due to acne pustules and papules, pimples/zits, cysts etc. Each pimple is associated with an inflammatory reaction, which causes local tissue damage when combating bacteria trapped in the clogged pores of the skin. On top of this, if you squeeze or pop pimples, this damage may be even more substantial.

When you get a cut on your skin, a scab starts to form, which actually helps it to heal. Acne pimples that become inflamed are like little cuts that need to heal; with chronic acne, repeat pimples and inflammation don't give enough time for the skin to heal properly. Therefore, the FIRST thing that must been done to break the cycle of creating new scars and marks (acne marks are also acne scars but less deep) is to PREVENT acne. This will allow collagen production and new tissue to rebuild your skin (at least partially) and as a result, make scars less visible, and marks vanish. So, PREVENTING NEW ACNE FROM FORMING IS THE FIRST CRUCIAL STEP TO GETTING RID OF ACNE SCARS AND MARKS.

AcnEase® prevents pimples from forming and reduces the number of pimples that progress to inflammatory pustules, thereby preventing skin damage.  By reducing the new damage to skin, your body can work on repairing the skin and reducing overall scarring. 

After your skin heals and no new pimples or cysts are forming, there are some options that increase skin turn-over aiding in skin repair and making scars and marks less visible: retinoic acid products, collagen building products, topical ingredients such as vitamin E (softens and moisturizes), zinc supplements, regular OTC scar creams, laser resurfacing. With that said, there is very little hope for improvement if the scars keep forming and your acne remains active.  SO, YOUR ROAD TO IMPROVING ACNE SCARS BEGINS WITH ENDING ACNE.  

Realistically, deeper acne scars are more difficult to get rid of and some may never completely disappear. However they may be made significantly less visible and softer. Then, the proper make-up can do the rest.

Different skin types and shades, your overall health, sun exposure and your age are also factors that make a difference in healing acne scars. You may want to consult with your dermatologist or an experienced beautician or esthetician about the specific options for your skin (and wallet!).

Acne Scars Softening Mask

This mask provides the best results if used once or twice a week and in conjunction with utilizing an acne treatment like AcnEase® that prevents new acne from coming. The mask softens the appearance of acne scars, making them less visible.

WARNING: You may want to lick your face while applying this mask, but resist the temptation! Also, this mask is not to be used when you have many active pimples or cysts (lemon juice will sting when applied if so).

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons of honey
• 2 tablespoons of steel cut oats (no instant oats)
• 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice

Preparation:

This will get a bit messy! For those with ultra sensitive skin, skip the lemon and put the oats in 2-3 tbs. of organic warm milk overnight (it becomes mush) - if you see that there is too much liquid in it in the morning, poor it out, but do not squeeze the oats. Then, follow from step 2 (minus the lemon of course, and

you can skip step 4 if needed). Can be used 1-2 times a week.

1. Blend/grind the oatmeal in a blender to a powdered form
2. Mix in the honey and lemon juice
3. Stir well with a fork or spoon into a smooth mixture
4. Wash your face with a mild cleanser
5. Spread out the mask on your face, avoiding eyes and lips
6. Relax for 20 minutes
7. Remove by splashing luke-warm water on your face (no rubbing)

With a promise of clear skin,
Dr. A