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and Health Tips
Acne can be a nightmare. It can affect our self-confidence and can cause lasting physical and emotional scars. Dealing with acne scars is just as important as preventing and treating acne. Read on for our comprehensive guide on how to get rid of acne scars and keep your skin looking its best.
Understanding Acne Scars
Acne scars are the result of damage to the skin’s collagen and elastin, usually caused by inflammation or excessive picking of pimples. There are two basic types of acne scars:
Atrophic Scars
Atrophic scars, also known as depressed or pitted acne scars, are the most common type of acne scar. They are caused by damage to the tissue beneath the skin, resulting in an indentation. They can be shallow or deep.
Hypertrophic Scars
Hypertrophic scars are raised, red scars caused by inflammation or excessive collagen production. They may fade with time, but often require professional treatment to resolve.
Treating Acne Scars
The treatment of acne scars varies, depending on the type and severity. Possible treatments include:
- Careful Skin Care – Gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and exfoliants can help improve the appearance of scars.
- Laser Treatment – Laser treatments can help reduce the appearance of both atrophic and hypertrophic scars.
- Injectables – Dermal fillers and steroids can be used to fill in atrophic scars.
- Surgery – Surgical treatments can help remove stubborn hypertrophic scars.
Skin Care Tips to Treat Acne Scars
Along with professional treatments, there are several strategies you can use to help treat and prevent acne scars.
- Wash Your Face Twice Daily – Keep your skin clean by washing your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser. Be sure to remove all makeup before you sleep.
- Keep Skin Hydrated – Use a gentle moisturizer daily to help keep skin hydrated and promote healing.
- Exfoliate Gently – Exfoliating helps to remove the dead skin cells that can contribute to clogged pores. Use an exfoliant two or three times per week, to avoid irritating sensitive skin.
- Avoid Picking and Popping Pimples – Avoid picking and popping pimples, as this can lead to further inflammation, as well as the risk of infection and even more scarring.
- Protect Skin From the Sun – Protect your skin from the sun with SPF of at least 30. Sun exposure can cause further damage, prolong healing time, and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding how to get rid of acne scars and the best strategies for treatment. Acne scars can be persistent and difficult to treat, but with patience and the right approach you can help reduce the appearance of your scars and keep your skin looking its best.
