Do you know what's more annoying than pimples? The marks they leave behind! Acne scars are trickier to get rid of than breakouts. Lucky for us, there are products and procedures that can make them disappear. Read on to find out the options you have.
Do "pimple mark removers" exist?
Before anything else, let's have a quick refresher on the different types of acne scars:
- Hypertrophic scars - raised bumps
- Icepick, Rolling, Boxcar scars - deep depressions on the skin
- Post-Inflammatory Erythema - pink to red spots on the area where inflamed acne was
- Post-Inflammatory Pigmentary Alteration - tan or blue-gray spots on the skin
"Pimple mark removers" can fade the pigmentation. The texture, however, would need professional in-clinic treatments to smoothen.
Is there a way to prevent pimple marks or acne scars?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, the risk increases when the person has inflammatory acne, delays treatment of breakouts, and genetics. Here are some precautions you can follow to lessen the risk of getting acne marks.
- Have a consistent skincare routine that focuses on oil-control reducing inflammation.
- Don't squeeze, pick, or pop pimples
- Treat the breakout as soon as possible with salicylic acid or these zit-zappers.
- Don't peel the scab off.
- See a dermatologist or aesthetician and get a pimple injection.
The Best Pimple Mark Removers To Try (Because Acne Marks Suck)
Sunscreen
Dermatologist Dr. Issa Cellona advises applying sunscreen to the face before heading out. SPF is vital in preventing inflammation and pigmentation. Remember to choose a formula that's lightweight and won't clog the pores. Dr. Issa explained the best way to choose the right sunscreen: "Even when the sunscreen is labeled as non-comedogenic, there are still mineral components of the sunscreen that can interact with your skin and create an imbalance of sorts." She strongly encouraged to wash the face thoroughly before going to bed to get rid of buildup, sebum, and dirt.
(START YOUR SPF SHOPPING HERE: The Best Non-Sticky Face Sunscreens To Use)
Vitamin C Products
We, editors, love incorporating Vitamin C products into our morning routines. Besides the brightening properties, Vitamin C can help boost collagen production which speeds up wound healing.
(LET THERE BE BRIGHT: The *Very* Best Vitamin C Serums To Use For Glowing Skin)
Exfoliating Acids
ICYDK, exfoliating acids help reveal a smoother brighter complexion. Add an AHA or BHA product to your routine to gently exfoliate the skin. AHAs are great for fading pigmentation and dissolving layers of dead skin cells. BHAs are amazing at dislodging stuck dirt and sebum beneath the pores.
(GLOWY SKINCARE GUIDE: How To Exfoliate Without Ruining Your Skin)
Retinol
Another all-star skincare ingredient, retinol is a wonderful addition to your anti-acne, adios pimple marks regimen. Retinol accelerates cell turnover which produces that super glowy, youthful complexion. There are different forms of retinol/retinoids to address your specific skin concerns. Dr. Kaycee Reyes explained in a previous Cosmo interview the benefits of each type of retinoid. For anti-acne therapy, look for Tretinoin and Adapalene. These products need a dermatologist's prescription.
A word of caution: Start slow when working with retinol because it can get too potent for some. Test if your skin can tolerate it by using it once a week at night, and then build up the frequency of use within one-week intervals. We highly recommend asking for the best retinol product for your skin concerns from a dermatologist before shopping.
(LIST: The Best Retinol Serums Your Skin Would Love)
Professional Procedures
If you're dealing with deep acne scars, DIY and home remedies won't cut it. In-clinic procedures like peels, fractional needling, and lasers can help improve skin texture. We've listed down the estimated costs of each professional treatment here.
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ADIOS, ACNE!
How To Get Rid Of Acne, According To A Dermatologist
How To Heal A Pimple: From DIY To Professional Treatments
These Exfoliating Toners Can Help *Fade* Pimple Marks
Hands Down, These Are The Best Serums That Can Fade Acne Scars
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