HOW DO I GET RID OF ACNE SCARS?
1st Aug 2024
Acne is a common skin condition that can often be treated with changes in diet, the correct skincare or medication, but it unfortunately has the ability to leave behind long lasting marks and scars. Post-inflammatory pigmentation and acne scars appear as a result of connective tissue dismantling and this is commonly caused by squeezing or irritating existing blemishes. Acne scarring can range from areas of darker pigmentation to atrophic scarring which causes small indents in the skin and can be difficult to treat, however, there are gentle approaches which can help reduce scarring for healthier-looking skin.
1. Start with Prevention
Acne and pimples can be frustrating to deal with and it’s often tempting to start squeezing white heads on your own, but this can lead to increased inflammation and a spread of breakouts to surrounding pores. If you’re able to, only get your pimples or acne extracted by a professional to avoid any increased inflammation and scarring. The second rule of prevention is sun protection. Wearing sunscreen such as my SUN DROPS SPF 50 will help prevent the occurrence or darkening of acne scars which can be exacerbated by the sun. Finally, be diligent with your skincare. Make sure you are hydrating and protecting your skin rather than drying it out and use products free of harsh ingredients like alcohol or acids that have the ability to flare up inflammation.
2. Adopt a Brightening and Collagen Building Routine
Following a targeted routine can reduce signs of acne scarring without undergoing extreme treatments. For hyperpigmentation, the BRIGHTENING LINE contains ingredients like Cress Sprouts Extract that help fade pigmentation and Ginseng Extract which supports the skin’s barrier against free radical damage and environmental stressors. A Vitamin C serum like THE GOOD C VITAMIN C SERUM will help to reduce uneven pigmentation and improve tone and also provides anti-oxidative protection from free radicals and environmental stressors for a youthful and healthy-looking complexion. Vitamin C also supports the formation of collagen and Hyaluronic Acid synthesis, which is needed for firm and youthful-looking skin. You can use THE GOOD C VITAMIN C SERUM in the AM and PM (during the daytime, use SUN DROPS SPF 50 for extra sun protection.
3. Microneedling
Microneedling is a treatment we offer at our Spas & Boutiques that uses very fine needles to prick the surface layer of your skin. These tiny punctures trigger your body’s wound healing process and begin the cycle of skin regeneration and collagen production, which is especially important when targeting atrophic scarring. A 2008 study showed that skin treated with four microneedling sessions spaced one month apart, produced up to a 400% increase in collagen and elastin six months after completing treatment. Microneedling is a safe and effective alternative to lasers and harsh treatments and because it leaves the epidermis intact and undamaged, it also ensures skin barrier health and no further inflammation.
4. Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that uses a special tool with an abrasive surface to gently exfoliate the thick outer layer of the skin. It removes dull skin, softens fine lines, smooths coarse skin texture, reduces pore size and an effective way to help fade brown spots and shallow cane scars. It also stimulates cell turnover and the production of collagen. Microdermabrasion is effective on all skin types and skin tones, and offers a great alternative to chemical peels for anyone with sensitive skin. It’s also ideal for people who have a lot of acne, whiteheads, and blackheads. Our Dr. Barbara Sturm Boutique & Spas offer both microdermabrasion and microneedling as add-ons to all of our facials. To book, see here.
