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How to get rid of cystic acne scars. Effective Treatments for Acne Scars: A Comprehensive Guide

by alexxlab

How can you effectively treat acne scars. What are the best professional treatments available for acne scarring. Which at-home remedies can help improve the appearance of acne scars. How long does it take to see results from acne scar treatments. Are there any risks associated with acne scar removal procedures.

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Understanding Acne Scars: Types and Formation

Acne scars are the unwelcome reminders of past breakouts, often persisting long after the initial inflammation has subsided. These scars can be particularly distressing, affecting one’s self-esteem and confidence. But what exactly are acne scars, and how do they form?

Acne scars typically develop as a result of severe acne, especially when the condition is left untreated or is picked at. When acne causes deep breaks in the skin, the body responds by producing collagen to repair the damage. Sometimes, this repair process doesn’t go smoothly, leading to various types of scars:

  • Atrophic scars: These are depressed scars that sit below the surrounding skin level. They include ice pick scars (deep, narrow scars), boxcar scars (round or oval depressions with steep sides), and rolling scars (wide depressions with sloping edges).
  • Hypertrophic scars: These are raised scars that sit above the skin’s surface.
  • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: While not true scars, these dark spots can persist for months after acne has healed.

Do all acne breakouts lead to scarring? No, not necessarily. Mild to moderate acne often heals without leaving permanent scars. However, more severe forms of acne, such as cystic acne, are more likely to result in scarring due to the depth of skin damage they cause.

Professional Treatments for Acne Scars

While over-the-counter products may offer some improvement for minor scarring, professional treatments often provide more significant and faster results. Here are some of the most effective professional treatments for acne scars:

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is a popular and effective treatment for various types of acne scars. How does it work? This treatment uses focused light energy to remove damaged skin layers and stimulate collagen production, promoting skin healing and rejuvenation.

There are two main types of lasers used for acne scar treatment:

  1. Ablative lasers: These remove the top layer of skin, promoting new skin growth. Examples include CO2 and Erbium YAG lasers.
  2. Non-ablative lasers: These work beneath the skin surface, stimulating collagen production without removing the top layer. Examples include Nd:YAG and fractional lasers.

Is laser resurfacing suitable for everyone? While highly effective, laser treatments may not be suitable for those with very dark skin tones due to the risk of hyperpigmentation. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified dermatologist to determine the best treatment for your skin type and scar condition.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin, causing it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. This reveals new, smoother skin underneath. But how effective are chemical peels for acne scars?

Chemical peels can be particularly effective for treating superficial acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. They work by:

  • Removing the top layer of damaged skin
  • Stimulating collagen production
  • Improving skin texture and tone
  • Reducing the appearance of shallow scars

The strength of the peel can be adjusted based on the severity of the scarring, ranging from superficial peels for mild scarring to deep peels for more severe cases. However, deeper peels may require longer recovery times and carry a higher risk of side effects.

Microneedling

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive treatment that can improve the appearance of acne scars. But how does this technique work?

During a microneedling session, a device with fine needles creates tiny punctures in the skin. This controlled injury triggers the body’s natural healing response, stimulating collagen and elastin production. The result? Improved skin texture and reduced appearance of scars.

Microneedling offers several advantages:

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Minimal downtime
  • Can be combined with other treatments for enhanced results
  • Effective for various types of acne scars

For optimal results, multiple sessions are typically recommended, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Some patients may see improvements after just one treatment, but the full effects usually become apparent after several sessions.

Surgical Interventions for Deep Acne Scars

For deeper, more stubborn acne scars, surgical interventions may be necessary. These procedures are typically reserved for scars that don’t respond well to less invasive treatments.

Punch Excision

Punch excision is a surgical technique used to treat deep, pitted acne scars. How is this procedure performed? The dermatologist uses a small, cookie-cutter-like tool to remove the scar, then closes the wound with a small stitch. This creates a new, smaller scar that typically fades over time and is less noticeable than the original acne scar.

Punch excision is particularly effective for:

  • Ice pick scars
  • Deep boxcar scars
  • Other small, deep scars

While punch excision can provide significant improvement for deep scars, it’s important to note that it does create a new scar. However, this new scar is usually much less noticeable and can be further improved with additional treatments like laser resurfacing.

Subcision

Subcision is another surgical technique used to treat depressed acne scars, particularly rolling scars. But how does this procedure work?

During subcision, a specially designed needle is inserted under the skin to break up the fibrous bands that pull the scar down, causing the depression. This releases the scar tissue, allowing the skin to rise and become more even with the surrounding skin.

Subcision offers several benefits:

  • Minimal downtime
  • Can be combined with other treatments for enhanced results
  • Effective for treating tethered, rolling scars
  • Can improve skin texture and appearance

While subcision can provide significant improvement, multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results. It’s also common to combine subcision with other treatments like fillers or laser resurfacing for comprehensive scar improvement.

Non-Surgical Treatments: Fillers and Injectables

For those looking for non-surgical options to improve the appearance of acne scars, dermal fillers and injectables can offer effective solutions. But how do these treatments work, and which scars are they best suited for?

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to add volume beneath the skin, effectively “filling in” depressed acne scars. The most commonly used fillers for acne scars include:

  • Hyaluronic acid fillers (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane)
  • Poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra)
  • Calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse)

These fillers work by:

  1. Adding volume to depressed areas
  2. Stimulating collagen production
  3. Improving overall skin texture

Fillers are particularly effective for rolling scars and some boxcar scars. They provide immediate results but are temporary, typically lasting 6-18 months depending on the type of filler used.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is an innovative treatment that uses the patient’s own blood to stimulate healing and collagen production. How does this treatment work for acne scars?

In PRP therapy:

  1. A small amount of the patient’s blood is drawn
  2. The blood is processed to concentrate the platelets
  3. The resulting PRP is injected into the scarred areas

PRP contains growth factors that can:

  • Stimulate collagen production
  • Improve skin texture and tone
  • Enhance overall skin healing

PRP can be used alone or in combination with other treatments like microneedling for enhanced results. While multiple sessions are typically needed, many patients report significant improvements in skin texture and scar appearance.

Topical Treatments and At-Home Care

While professional treatments often provide the most dramatic results for acne scars, certain topical treatments and at-home care routines can help improve the appearance of mild scarring and maintain results from professional treatments.

Over-the-Counter Products

Several over-the-counter products can help improve the appearance of mild acne scars:

  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): These exfoliating agents help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. Examples include glycolic acid and lactic acid.
  • Retinoids: Over-the-counter retinoids like adapalene can help stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture.
  • Vitamin C: This antioxidant can help brighten skin and fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
  • Niacinamide: This form of vitamin B3 can help reduce inflammation and improve overall skin tone.

While these products can be effective for mild scarring and maintenance, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Significant scarring typically requires more intensive, professional treatments.

Skincare Routine for Acne-Prone Skin

Maintaining a proper skincare routine is crucial for preventing new acne breakouts and protecting healing skin. A basic routine should include:

  1. Gentle cleansing: Use a non-comedogenic, pH-balanced cleanser twice daily.
  2. Exfoliation: Incorporate chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid 1-2 times per week.
  3. Hydration: Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.
  4. Sun protection: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect healing skin and prevent hyperpigmentation.

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to skincare. It may take several weeks to months to see noticeable improvements in skin texture and scar appearance.

Combining Treatments for Optimal Results

While individual treatments can be effective, combining different approaches often yields the best results for acne scar treatment. But how do dermatologists determine the best combination of treatments for each patient?

The ideal treatment plan depends on several factors:

  • Scar type and severity
  • Skin type and tone
  • Patient’s budget and downtime tolerance
  • Previous treatments and their results

Common treatment combinations include:

  1. Subcision followed by dermal fillers for rolling scars
  2. Microneedling with PRP for overall skin texture improvement
  3. Chemical peels followed by laser resurfacing for comprehensive rejuvenation
  4. Punch excision followed by laser treatments for deep, ice pick scars

By combining treatments, dermatologists can address different aspects of scarring simultaneously, often achieving more comprehensive and satisfying results than with a single treatment approach.

Managing Expectations and Potential Risks

While acne scar treatments can significantly improve skin texture and appearance, it’s crucial to manage expectations and understand potential risks. What should patients know before undergoing acne scar treatment?

Realistic Expectations

It’s important to understand that while treatments can greatly improve the appearance of acne scars, complete elimination is often not possible. Patients should expect:

  • Gradual improvement over time
  • The need for multiple treatment sessions
  • Ongoing maintenance to preserve results

The degree of improvement can vary depending on the severity of scarring, skin type, and chosen treatment. A qualified dermatologist can provide a realistic assessment of expected outcomes based on individual factors.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

As with any medical procedure, acne scar treatments come with potential risks and side effects. These can include:

  • Temporary redness, swelling, and bruising
  • Changes in skin pigmentation (especially in darker skin tones)
  • Infection (rare with proper aftercare)
  • Scarring (very rare when performed by a qualified professional)

The risk of side effects varies depending on the treatment type and individual factors. It’s crucial to discuss potential risks with your dermatologist and follow all pre- and post-treatment instructions carefully to minimize complications.

In conclusion, while acne scars can be challenging to treat, a wide range of effective options is available. From professional treatments like laser resurfacing and chemical peels to at-home care routines, patients have many paths to improved skin texture and appearance. By working closely with a qualified dermatologist, individuals can develop a personalized treatment plan to address their unique concerns and achieve the best possible results. Remember, patience and consistency are key in the journey to smoother, more even-toned skin.

The Best Ways To Get Rid of Acne Scars – Cleveland Clinic

Acne is every teen’s nightmare, and acne can sometimes even extend into adulthood. But long after pimples clear up and the redness and irritation are gone, some of us carry unwanted reminders: scarring. Unsightly scars left behind from acne can be tough to bear.

But whether your acne scars are raised or sunken, there are several good ways to mask or minimize them — think laser resurfacing, chemical peels and microneedling.

“I’m always amazed at how much healing the skin can do once you get the inflammation under control,” says dermatologist Amy Kassouf, MD.

Dr. Kassouf explains the best acne scar treatments that are available and how they can help minimize your acne scars.

Acne is a common skin condition affecting about 80% of those between the ages of 11 and 30 at some point. It can be on your face, chest, back and shoulders. It may seem like the irritation will never go away, but it does. When it goes away, you may be left with acne scars.

Although it’s not possible to get rid of your acne scars quickly, it’s never too late to treat them. Teenage patients may have to wait until their early 20s before undergoing treatment to make sure there’s little risk of future acne flare-ups.

While there are plenty of over-the-counter products that claim to improve a scar’s texture, color and appearance, there’s no real way to get rid of acne scars naturally and at home. Over-the-counter products may include the following ingredients:

  • Alpha hydroxy acids.
  • Lactic acids.
  • Retinoids.
  • Salicylic acid.

But your best bet is to consult a dermatologist. First, they’ll focus on getting your acne under control. The fewer breakouts you have, the fewer scars you’ll get. And the good news is that not all acne scars are permanent.

When your doctor turns attention to the scars your acne has left behind, they’ll typically explore the following treatment options.

Laser resurfacing

Vascular-specific lasers target blood vessels and can help lighten flat or raised scars that are pink or purple and help flatten raised scars. Doctors often use fractional or carbon dioxide ablative lasers to treat acne scars.    

“Afterward, the skin is swollen and red, and may bleed, for up to five days,” says Dr. Kassouf. “Also, you may need between three and five treatment sessions.”

Laser treatments aren’t just for acne. Doctors use lasers to treat other types of scarring as well, including those from burns, skin cancer and tattoo removal.

Chemical peels

Your dermatologist may apply a chemical solution to your skin. This causes it to blister and eventually peel off, creating new, regenerated skin that’s usually smoother than the old skin.  

Peeling typically causes redness, and sometimes swelling and cold sores, for up to seven days. This treatment is also less expensive because you’ll usually only need one treatment session.

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“Lasers are more precise, so if a chemical peel doesn’t work, people often try laser,” Dr. Kassouf notes.

Microneedling

Also known as collagen-induction therapy, microneedling uses either a fine-needle roller or pen device to create tiny holes in the top layer of your skin. The procedure stimulates collagen production, which helps improve fine lines and skin texture. 

Redness occurs afterward and typically lasts a couple of days. Most people will need four to six microneedling treatments for best results.

Your doctor may use more than one type of treatment, too, depending on your needs. For instance, they may treat some scars with a laser and others with microneedling.

“When you have damaged skin, no treatment will make it look perfect again,” states Dr. Kassouf. “But, depending on its severity, an acne scar can diminish by as much as two-thirds after treatment.”

Punch excision

If you have a pitted scar that won’t heal well with standard treatment, your doctor may opt for punch excision.

“This is where the whole scar and hair follicle are removed prior to resurfacing,” explains Dr. Kassouf.

A round tool is used to completely remove a scar by puncturing the top layer of skin. Then, skin sutures are used to close the area, which should result in a smaller, flatter scar that fades over time.

Subcision

Another treatment that may be helpful before any of the lasers or peels is called subcision, a procedure that involves releasing a scar that’s bound to the muscle or deeper tissues so that it can move freely again.

This technique, which uses a surgical probe or needle, is used with deeper scars to bring them to the surface to enhance their response to the laser, chemical peel or microneedling.

You may notice minor bruising for about one to two weeks after treatment.

Fillers

Yes, fillers are typically used to treat wrinkles. But they can also be used to help with sunken acne scars.

Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane® and Juvederm® help plump your skin and can smooth out any sunken areas, while collagen fillers like Bellafill® lift the acne scar and can add volume.

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Sculptra®, which is a poly-L-lactic acid filler, works over time by stimulating collagen production to raise any recessed acne scars.

Your doctor may also suggest an autologous fat transfer, in which fat from another part of your body is harvested and injected into the acne scar area.

For all varieties of filler, you may experience swelling, redness and discoloration. And depending on what type of filler is used, you may need multiple treatments.

Dermabrasion

Similar to laser resurfacing, dermabrasion uses a special tool that creates friction to remove your skin’s top layer. Think about it as a “sander” that smooths your skin.

Once that top layer of skin is removed, a moist dressing will be applied to help it heal, which can take a couple of weeks.    

Microdermabrasion is similar to dermabrasion, but typically involves multiple treatments with shorter recovery times. Microdermabrasion doesn’t go as deep or leave as permanent of a change as laser treatments but is less expensive and requires less preparation. 

Steroid injections

A common treatment, steroid injections can be used to flatten raised acne scars. You’ll need multiple treatments before you see any noticeable difference.

Side effects can include mild pain, bruising and possibly bleeding. Alternating injections with laser treatments can often enhance results.

Can you prevent acne scars?

Acne can be related to medications or other supplements, so always review medicines like birth control and workout supplements with a doctor. 

There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of getting acne scars:

  • Quit smoking or don’t start smoking.
  • Keep your hands off your face. Resist the urge to pick or squeeze your pimples.
  • Treat your acne as soon as possible to reduce the chance of scars.

Scarring can happen at any age, no matter if you’re a teenager and your hormones are changing or you’re an adult. Sometimes, when adults lose weight or lose elasticity in their skin as they age, scarring from years past becomes more evident.

“For other adults, they just find that the time is finally right to take care of themselves,” Dr. Kassouf says. “I had a 60-year-old who said she has dealt with this scar all her life and wanted to do something about it. I’ve seen beautiful results with adults.”

Acne scars: Diagnosis and treatment

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How to remove acne scars

Each human body is individual, which is why some of us have perfect skin all our lives, while others suffer from rashes for many years. This unpleasant cosmetic defect has the peculiarity of transforming over time into the so-called post-acne. Post-acne is the atrophic consequences of acne in the form of congestive elements and scars that occur at the site of acne (on the cheeks, on the forehead, shoulders, back) due to the insufficient ability of the epidermis to self-regenerate and for a number of other reasons.

To better understand the nature of post-acne, let’s find out what kind of rashes lead to it.

Types of rashes on the face

Each of the types of rashes that will be discussed below is provoked by one or another factor, and, accordingly, in order to avoid the development of the disease, it is important to start treating the underlying cause in a timely manner.

Comedones are “sebaceous plugs” (open or closed) that clog a pore and can be a catalyst for serious inflammation. With proper skin care and timely, high-quality cleansing, comedones quickly disappear and do not pose a threat to the skin. If there is an infection, the comedone turns into a papule.

  • Pustule – is a pustular formation that occurs in the focus of inflammation due to the active action of waste products of microorganisms. It has a white or greenish-white color, the size is from a grain to a pea.
  • Papule – is a swelling, a cavityless nodule, rising above the skin, which is characterized by painful sensations during palpation. Papules can vary in color from red to bluish.
  • Lightning pimple – is the most severe form of the disease, because, in addition to damage to the deep layers of tissue, it entails a change in the formula of leukocytes in the blood, an increase in body temperature, and is manifested by severe pain in the skin, muscle tissue and bones.
  • Nodular cystic pimple (furuncle) – Another severe form of acne, which is a pimple surrounded by inflamed red-purple skin. These rashes are connected to each other by fistulous ducts. If the disease becomes chronic, then dark spots, scars, scars can form in their place. Possible complications include the formation of abscesses.

Causes of scarring after acne

Acne is prone to both owners of oily skin, and combination or even dry. Rashes have a different character. In general, acne is a local, chronic inflammatory process caused by a number of factors: hormonal disorders, infectious conditions, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and the endocrine system, as well as incorrect skin care.

When inflammation intensifies and spreads to the deeper layers of the skin, acne marks (acne scars) form in place of acne. Since the human body, during inflammation, begins to produce white blood cells faster than usual, as a result, post-acne occurs in the form of pigmentation, scars of various types, congestion.

Causes of scarring after acne are:

  • Long-term, unresolved problems with the skin of the face.
  • Incorrect selection of cosmetic and care products.
  • Deep inflammatory process.
  • Untimely acne treatment or treatment by a low profile doctor.
  • Self extrusion of pimples.
  • Injury to small capillaries.
  • Attachment of infection.

Is it possible to get rid of acne scars at home?

When dealing with post-acne, it is important to understand that this pathological process also occurs in the deep layers of the dermis and entails serious changes in the skin. For this reason, self-treatment (without qualified medical care) can be fraught with beauty and health. Therapy for acne scars should be complex, which means stopping inflammation, improving blood circulation, deep skin hydration, and regeneration.

A wide range of home peels, serums, creams, pharmaceutical ointments can also be used in home treatment, but only after consultation with a specialist.

It is important not to self-medicate as there is a high risk of irreparable damage to the skin.

How to deal with acne scars in cosmetology

Is it possible to remove acne scars? Of course, modern medicine has several effective methods, each of which has proven effectiveness and is successfully used in our clinic.

  • Peeling. Peeling is a chemical exfoliation of the upper, damaged skin layer due to the action of active acids. Peelings are distinguished by the depth of exposure (superficial, medial, superficial-median and deep), as well as by the type of acid. Exfoliation reduces inflammation due to the bactericidal action of acids, eliminates keratinized, defective cells, removes stagnant elements, lightens pigmentation and starts the process of natural skin restoration at the level of the epidermis and dermis.
  • Mesotherapy. This is an injection procedure that involves the subcutaneous administration of formulations of several medicinal substances or mono-preparations based on hyaluronic acid, vitamins, micro- and macroelements, peptides, collagen, etc. Mesotherapy with broad-spectrum drugs stimulates skin regeneration processes, due to which scar tissue is replaced by new healthy cells. It also has an antiviral antiseptic effect, as a result of which the bacteria that cause the disease die. Mesotherapy generally improves the quality and immunity of the skin, rejuvenates and nourishes it from the inside.
  • Plasma therapy. It is also an injectable procedure that helps to solve the problem of congestive spots by subcutaneous injection of the patient’s own blood plasma, which is enriched with growth factors. Growth factors stimulate skin cells to regenerate, increase skin immunity, strengthen the lipid barrier. The procedure reduces the appearance of post-acne scars.
  • Laser resurfacing. This is the most effective treatment for acne scars. Due to the point evaporation of defective skin cells with laser energy, it becomes possible to remove the top layer of the skin and at the same time start the process of neocollagenesis in deeper layers. Thanks to this, the skin relief is leveled, post-acne traces disappear, pigmentation disappears, the skin becomes healthier, more elastic. Laser resurfacing can be carried out with varying degrees of intensity and depth, which allows you to remove even the oldest and deepest acne scars.

Which method is indicated in each specific case will be determined by the Diamond Laser clinic dermatologist based on the results of an in-person consultation. Also, these methods can be combined to achieve the best post-acne treatment result.

Is it possible to quickly get rid of acne scars?

Asking the question “how to get rid of acne scars?” It is important when the treatment was started. The sooner you resort to qualified dermatological care, the sooner and more pronounced the effect will be. The best time for therapy is considered to be up to six months from the moment of scar formation. Such a scar is “fresh”, the cells are less atrophied, respectively, the treatment will be more effective than with old post-acne scars.

In other words, treat acne scars on the face as soon as they are discovered. This will achieve the maximum effect, in which the skin of the face will be smooth and even without traces of pathology.

You can make an appointment with a dermatologist regarding the treatment of post-acne traces by calling the phone numbers listed in the “Contacts” section of our website!

The information published in the article is for informational purposes only, is not a call to action and should not be considered as expert advice. All decisions regarding the receipt of medical care should be made by the patient in full consultation with the doctor.

stages, causes, symptoms, signs, diagnosis, treatment, prevention

Stages

Causes

Symptoms

Complications

Diagnosis

Treatment 9000 3

Prevention

Post-acne – skin changes resulting from mechanical action on acne. Violation of the integrity of the surface of the skin can be presented in the form of scars, darkening of areas and pseudoatrophy. Neglect of competent methods of dealing with acne, blackheads and blackheads leads to such consequences.

Post-acne skin is a persistent problem that can persist for many years. Patients of different ages face it: both teenagers and mature people. Most often, post-acne is formed on the face, mainly in the forehead, cheeks and chin. But there may be other places of localization: on the back, arms and chest. Timely medical care prevents the appearance of post-acne after skin rashes.

Stages

The formation of the consequences of improper acne treatment occurs in three stages:

  1. Inflammation. The process leads to excess production of melanin, a pigment found in the iris, skin, and hair. This provokes the formation of stagnant spots and hyperpigmentation.
  2. Synthesis of collagen. At this stage, the cells that are responsible for healing cuts produce collagen in excess. The process leads to an overgrowth of keratinocytes, the cells that make up about 90% of the skin. When they move into an open wound – acne – the breakdown of collagen fibers occurs.
  3. Restoration and renewal of the tissue structure. This is the longest stage, which can last for months or even years.

Causes and risk factors

The main and most serious cause of post-acne development is acne with multiple complications. Acne is a common condition faced by a large part of the population. In 30% of cases, it occurs in a severe and acute form, requiring specialized treatment. An incorrectly eliminated inflammatory process results in the formation of scars and post-acne marks.

Factors contributing to the onset of acne sequelae include:

  1. Severe acne. For example, nodular cystic and papulo-pustular forms of the disease often turn into post-acne manifestations.
  2. Prolonged inflammation on the skin for a year or longer.
  3. Family history. In the presence of acne and the consequences in the form of post-acne in close relatives, the likelihood of scarring and pseudoatrophy increases.
  4. Wrong approach in the treatment of skin rashes. Self-elimination of the problem by squeezing and traumatizing acne often leads to undesirable consequences.

Symptoms

Clinical signs of post-acne are observed in half of the patients who turn to dermatologists for help. Among the most common are:

  1. Scars. Deep marks on the skin are formed during a mild form of acne and damage to the dermis. Such manifestations are often depigmented and atrophic. Getting rid of stagnant acne and its consequences can be difficult. This requires the help of a specialist and years of treatment.
  2. Hyperpigmentation. Pigmentation after skin rashes is one of the obvious symptoms of post-acne. Often it is a consequence of papulo-pustular inflammatory elements. Mechanical impact, such as squeezing acne and irradiation, provokes the severity of this condition. Hyperpigmentation affects mainly people with a dark skin tone and women over the age of 35 due to hormonal changes.
  3. Milia and atheromas. These effects relate to secondary changes in the skin. Atheroma refers to cysts of the sebaceous glands, milia refers to whiteheads. As a rule, such manifestations are localized on the skin around the eyes and on the eyelids. Owners of milia and atheromas often experience discomfort due to such cosmetic defects.
  4. Stagnant spots are the consequences of acne, which are most often encountered by people prone to the formation of spider veins. Spots of red, purple and blue may appear when trying to pop a blackhead.
  5. Enlarged pores. Appear due to excessive secretion of sebum.

Complications

Chronic inflammation of the dermis is the main cause of serious post-acne complications. Inflammation is often caused by mechanical action. When squeezing out acne and blackheads, the integrity of the surface of the skin and the follicle is violated.

Self-medication and an illiterate approach to post-acne therapy after acne increase the risk of complications of the condition, including:

  • the appearance of deep scars;
  • secondary infection;
  • vasodilation;
  • puffiness;
  • depigmentation and hyperpigmentation;
  • exacerbation of herpes and other infectious diseases;
  • manifestation of allergic reactions.

Diagnostics

When diagnosing the consequences of acne, the specialist takes into account such indicators as:

  • form and type of scars;
  • depth and localization;
  • skin phototype;
  • the presence of hyperpigmentation.

If the patient does not have keloids and infection, then the delivery of laboratory tests is not prescribed. Differential diagnosis is based primarily on the severity of post-acne symptoms.

In exceptional cases, depending on the neglect of the situation, the doctor may prescribe diagnostics:

  • complete blood count;
  • blood chemistry;
  • alanine aminotransferase;
  • aspartate aminotransferase;
  • bilirubin direct;
  • alkaline phosphatase;
  • skin analysis for microbial flora.

Treatment

Modern cosmetology medicine offers a wide range of post-acne treatments. Injection, hardware methods and chemical exposure are actively used.

Pharmacological therapy includes the following post-acne peels:

  • superficial;
  • median;
  • deep.

Each of the methods of getting rid of post-acne is unique, has indications, contraindications and application features. Peeling is effective without other procedures. Basically, this approach is used to eliminate stagnant spots.

Hardware technologies for post-acne removal are popular. The main methods include:

  1. Laser resurfacing. Atrophic and round scars can be treated in this way. The difficulty lies in the fact that the doctor correctly determines the depth of the scar and sets the parameters.
  2. Dermabrasion. Allows you to remove post-acne with the use of specialized abrasives. The technique is painful and requires the use of anesthesia.
  3. Microdermabrasion. A more gentle method of getting rid of hyperpigmentation, shallow scars and spots.

Injectable post-acne treatments also show their effectiveness. Their essence lies in the introduction under the skin of injections of enzymes and vitamins necessary to restore the dermis. Popular drugs based on collagen and hyaluronic acid, which rarely cause discomfort and side effects.

Experts do not recommend self-medication and use of post-acne products from a pharmacy. This can aggravate the situation and lead to even more serious vascular and skin diseases. Ointments and creams for post-acne can provoke complications, which will require deeper therapy.

In addition, it should be remembered that it will not be possible to get rid of post-acne in one day. Formed consequences of acne for years require long-term treatment. Only a comprehensive, professional approach gives positive results.

Prophylaxis

It is possible to prevent the consequences of acne. Experts advise to adhere to the following rules:

  1. Observe individual skin care measures.
  2. Use natural cleansers.
  3. Do not pop pimples with dirty hands.
  4. Try not to touch your face with your hands unnecessarily.
  5. Use antibacterial lotions to remove make-up.

Post-acne may disappear on its own, but after a long time. Stagnant spots will disappear with proper skin care, but scars will not go away without professional treatment. It is better to entrust the solution of the issue to a specialist and consult a doctor for qualified help.

The author of the article:

Shapovalova Valeria Olegovna

cosmetologist, dermatologist, trichologist

work experience 7 years

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