Acne scars are like tiny footprints of our skin's unique story. They remind us of the battles we've fought with and the resilience we've shown! We know, we know – not everyone wants to be reminded of these battles because, let’s face it, battling acne can be a pretty tough experience to go through. We're here to help you avoid scarring as much as possible on the journey.
What causes acne scarring?
Let's get straight into what causes those stubborn little acne scars. When you squeeze or pop a pimple, it causes trauma to the skin. Think of it like a battlefield where your skin's natural defences are compromised. This can lead to inflammation and damage to the surrounding tissues. Inflammation is like the drama queen we all know, stirring up chaos at the party. The result? Your skin's healing process kicks into overdrive, trying its best to repair the damage. But sometimes, it produces excess collagen, which can create uneven texture or discolouration – aka those dreaded acne scars.
We all know the golden rule when it comes to dealing with a pimple: Resist the temptation to pop it! When you give in to the popping impulse, you're playing with fire and risking those dreaded acne scars. And trust us, we've all been there!
So as tempting as it may be to unleash your inner pimple-popper extraordinaire and go to absolute town on your skin with that 5x zoom mirror, remember that it's best to resist the urge and let your skin heal naturally. Instead, reach for your favourite acne hack spot treatment and throw on a pimple patch, which will speed up your skin’s healing and save all that scarring.
Do I have acne scars or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?
Acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can both appear after a breakout, but they are actually quite different. That's why it's important to take a distinct approach when it comes to fading each of them.
Acne scars occur when excessive collagen forms in a specific area during the healing process of a wound. Now we’re going to get a little science-y – these scars typically develop within the dermis, where the initial inflammation from acne occurred.
If you've experienced cystic acne, there's a higher chance of developing scarring, especially if you've picked at it prematurely or aggressively. Acne scarring is a consequence of touching and squeezing breakouts; it damages the small veins, glands, and surrounding tissues, which leads to scarring. On the other hand, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a form of skin pigmentation that is caused by skin trauma, but does not actually damage the follicle. So technically, means it’s not a true form of scarring. So there you have it!
How to fix acne scarring:
Whether you're battling acne scars or hyperpigmentation, there are great solutions out there waiting to help you reclaim your skin’s texture. From professional treatments to DIY hacks, you've got options to bid farewell to these kinds of skin concerns.
Step up your skincare
Get your skincare routine down pat! Start by incorporating ingredients that work wonders on scars. The first thing you're going to want to invest in is our rebound serum. While this doesn’t fade acne scarring, it helps put your skin in its best shape for healing. With its barrier supporting ingredients, it calms, soothes, and hydrates all in one. Next up, look for goodies like retinol, vitamin C, and niacinamide in your products. These powerhouses help stimulate collagen production and fade those pesky marks.
A hugely important skincare step when trying to fade acne scars is to apply SPF every day. Did you know that exposure to the sun can actually cause further inflammation and prolong the healing process? Well, it sure can! Make sure to apply skin shady SPF50+ every day (even the cloudy ones!) to protect your skin from harsh exposure.
If you’re still battling breakouts and want to know how to build a skincare routine for acne prone skin, read here.
Amp up the exfoliation:
Exfoliation is your secret weapon in the fight against acne scars. Shedding dead skin cells with chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs can be a massive help. They can smooth out texture and even out your skin tone. It's like waving a magic wand over those scars! Just be sure not to go OTT, as this can cause further irritation and damage your skin barrier. Start slow, work your way up, and apply your rebound serum to help support your skin barrier.
Laser treatments
If you're up for some high-tech wizardry, laser treatments are your go-to. These beams of light work like magic, stimulating collagen production and zapping away those scars. It's like saying, "Be gone, scars!" with a futuristic twist.
Skin needling treatment for acne scars
Ah, skin needling, the technique that's got everyone buzzing! If you're ready to take your acne scar game to the next level, then skin needling might be right up your alley.
Here's the 411: Skin needling, also known as microneedling or dermarolling, involves using a special roller or device studded with tiny needles to create micro-injuries to the skin's surface. Don't worry, it's not as scary as it sounds! These minuscule punctures kickstart your skin's natural healing response, boosting collagen production and promoting cellular turnover.
But wait, there's more! As your skin repairs itself, it also helps fade those acne scars over time. It's like giving your skin a little nudge in the right direction to rejuvenate and smooth out those marks.
Now, it's important to note that skin needling isn't a quick fix. It takes a series of treatments spaced out over time to see noticeable results, and it can be quite pricey. Plus, it's crucial to follow the proper aftercare instructions that are given to you and take care of your skin's barrier post treatment as well.
So, if you're willing to commit to the process, skin needling might just be your ticket to smoother, more even-toned skin. Just remember to consult with a trusted professional and do your research to ensure you're in good hands.
Time and patience
Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither will your skin's transformation. Healing takes time, so be patient and kind to yourself. Consistency is key, so keep up with your skincare routine and treatments, and watch those scars fade away like a distant memory.
Understanding the causes of acne scarring is the first step in our quest. Remember, resist the urge to pop those pesky pimples and let your skin heal naturally. We've all been tempted, but trust us, it's best to avoid the battlefield of inflammation and potential scarring.
