Duo Digest: Acne Scars – What Causes Them and How to Treat & Prevent Them
Breakouts can be frustrating on their own—but the scars they leave behind often linger far longer. Understanding why acne scars form and how to manage them can help you take control of your skin’s recovery and prevent future marks.
1. What Causes Acne Scars?
Acne scars form when breakouts damage the deeper layers of skin. Inflammation from moderate to severe acne—especially cysts—can disrupt the healing process and result in lasting marks. Common types include:
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark spots or discoloration.
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Atrophic scars: Depressed or pitted areas (like ice pick or boxcar scars).
- Hypertrophic scars: Raised, thicker scar tissue that forms on the skin.
2. How to Treat and Prevent Them
- Start with Prevention: Use gentle, non-comedogenic skincare to reduce inflammation and avoid picking or squeezing spots.
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Fade Pigmentation: Ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, and vitamin C can help lighten dark marks over time.
- Improve Texture: For atrophic scars, consistent use of retinol or chemical exfoliants (like AHAs and BHAs) can promote skin renewal and smoother texture.
- Professional Options: Microneedling, chemical peels, and laser treatments may help improve deep scarring when topical treatments aren’t enough.
The key to improving scars is patience, consistency, and a routine focused on both prevention and repair.