What causes pimples to form under scar tissue. How can you effectively treat clogged pores beneath scars. What are the best prevention methods for avoiding breakouts in scarred areas.

The Phenomenon of Pimples Under Scars: An Overview

Many individuals who have experienced acne or other skin conditions that result in scarring may encounter a peculiar and frustrating situation: pimples forming beneath scar tissue. This occurrence can be particularly challenging to manage, as the presence of scar tissue can make traditional acne treatments less effective. Understanding the underlying causes and potential solutions for this issue is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing further complications.

The Science Behind Clogged Pores Under Scar Tissue

To comprehend why pimples can form under scars, it’s essential to understand the structure of scar tissue and how it differs from normal skin. Scar tissue is composed of collagen fibers that are arranged differently than in healthy skin, often resulting in a denser, less flexible surface. This altered skin structure can lead to several issues:

• Reduced pore flexibility
• Impaired sebum regulation
• Altered skin cell turnover
• Increased susceptibility to bacterial growth

These factors collectively contribute to the formation of clogged pores beneath scar tissue, potentially leading to the development of pimples or comedones.

How do clogged pores form under scar tissue?

Clogged pores under scar tissue often result from a combination of factors. The altered skin structure can trap sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria more easily than normal skin. Additionally, the reduced flexibility of scar tissue can make it harder for the skin to naturally expel these trapped substances, leading to the formation of comedones or pimples.

Types of Acne That Can Develop Under Scars

Several types of acne lesions can form beneath scar tissue, each with its own characteristics and treatment challenges:

1. Comedones (blackheads and whiteheads)
2. Papules
3. Pustules
4. Nodules
5. Cysts

Understanding the specific type of acne developing under your scar tissue can help in determining the most effective treatment approach.

Are deep cysts more common under scar tissue?

While all types of acne can potentially form under scar tissue, deep cysts may be more prevalent in these areas. The dense nature of scar tissue can make it difficult for inflammation to resolve naturally, potentially leading to the formation of more severe, deep-seated acne lesions.

The Role of Skin Picking in Exacerbating the Problem

For individuals with a history of skin picking or excoriation disorder, the presence of pimples under scars can be particularly challenging. The urge to extract or manipulate these lesions can be strong, but doing so often leads to further complications:

• Increased inflammation
• Additional scarring
• Potential infection
• Prolonged healing time

It’s crucial to address the underlying skin picking behavior while also treating the acne to achieve long-term skin health.

How does chronic skin picking affect acne under scars?

Chronic skin picking can significantly worsen acne under scars by introducing bacteria, increasing inflammation, and damaging the already compromised skin barrier. This can lead to a cycle of breakouts and further picking, making it essential to break this habit for effective treatment.

Treatment Options for Pimples Under Scars

Addressing pimples under scar tissue often requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some potential treatment options:

1. Topical retinoids
2. Salicylic acid
3. Benzoyl peroxide
4. Chemical peels
5. Microdermabrasion
6. Laser therapy
7. Prescription medications (oral antibiotics or isotretinoin)

It’s important to consult with a dermatologist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation.

Can salicylic acid effectively treat clogged pores under scars?

Salicylic acid can be an effective treatment for clogged pores under scars due to its ability to penetrate pores and exfoliate dead skin cells. However, its effectiveness may be somewhat reduced in scarred areas due to the altered skin structure. Consistent use and combination with other treatments may be necessary for optimal results.

Prevention Strategies for Avoiding Breakouts in Scarred Areas

Preventing pimples from forming under scars is often easier than treating them once they’ve developed. Here are some strategies to help prevent breakouts in scarred areas:

• Maintain a consistent skincare routine
• Use non-comedogenic products
• Exfoliate gently and regularly
• Keep the skin hydrated
• Protect the skin from sun damage
• Manage stress levels
• Avoid touching or picking at the skin

Implementing these preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing pimples under scar tissue.

How often should you exfoliate scarred skin to prevent breakouts?

The frequency of exfoliation for scarred skin depends on various factors, including skin type and sensitivity. Generally, exfoliating 1-2 times per week is sufficient for most people. However, it’s crucial to use gentle exfoliants and avoid over-exfoliating, which can irritate the skin and potentially worsen the problem.

The Impact of Diet and Lifestyle on Acne in Scarred Areas

While the connection between diet and acne remains a topic of debate in the scientific community, some evidence suggests that certain dietary and lifestyle factors may influence acne development, even in scarred areas:

• High glycemic index foods
• Dairy consumption
• Omega-3 fatty acid intake
• Sleep quality
• Exercise habits
• Stress management

Paying attention to these factors and making appropriate adjustments may help in managing acne, including breakouts under scar tissue.

Can certain foods trigger breakouts in scarred areas?

While individual responses to food can vary, some studies suggest that high glycemic index foods and dairy products may exacerbate acne in some people. This effect could potentially extend to breakouts in scarred areas. Keeping a food diary and observing any correlations between diet and skin changes may help identify personal triggers.

When to Seek Professional Help for Pimples Under Scars

While many cases of pimples under scars can be managed with over-the-counter treatments and proper skincare, there are instances where professional help is necessary. Consider consulting a dermatologist if:

• Over-the-counter treatments are ineffective
• The acne is severe or persistent
• You’re experiencing significant emotional distress
• There are signs of infection
• You have a history of keloid scarring
• You’re struggling with skin picking behaviors

A dermatologist can provide personalized treatment options and help manage both the acne and any underlying skin conditions.

What treatment options might a dermatologist recommend for persistent pimples under scars?

For persistent pimples under scars, a dermatologist might recommend more aggressive treatments such as prescription-strength retinoids, oral antibiotics, or isotretinoin. They may also suggest procedures like chemical peels, microneedling, or laser therapy to address both the acne and the scarring. The specific treatment plan will depend on the individual’s skin condition, medical history, and treatment goals.

The Psychological Impact of Dealing with Acne Under Scars

Dealing with pimples under scars can have a significant psychological impact, often exacerbating feelings of frustration, anxiety, and self-consciousness. This emotional toll can be particularly challenging for individuals who have already gone through the process of acne treatment and scar management. It’s important to address these psychological aspects alongside the physical treatment of the skin condition.

• Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy to manage skin picking urges
• Practice self-compassion and positive self-talk
• Focus on overall health and well-being
• Educate yourself about your skin condition

Remember that dealing with skin issues is a common experience, and there are resources available to help you manage both the physical and emotional aspects of this condition.

How can you maintain a positive self-image while dealing with pimples under scars?

Maintaining a positive self-image while dealing with pimples under scars can be challenging, but it’s crucial for overall well-being. Focus on your positive qualities and accomplishments that are unrelated to your appearance. Practice self-care routines that make you feel good, both physically and mentally. Surround yourself with supportive people who appreciate you for who you are. Remember that your worth is not determined by your skin’s appearance, and that many people deal with similar issues.

Future Directions in Research and Treatment

The field of dermatology is continuously evolving, with new research and treatment options emerging for various skin conditions, including pimples under scars. Some promising areas of research include:

• Advanced topical formulations with enhanced penetration
• Targeted probiotic treatments
• Personalized skincare based on genetic profiling
• Innovative scar remodeling techniques
• Combination therapies for simultaneous treatment of acne and scarring

Staying informed about these developments can help you make educated decisions about your skincare routine and treatment options in consultation with your dermatologist.

What promising new treatments are on the horizon for managing pimples under scars?

Several promising treatments are being researched for managing pimples under scars. These include advanced nanotechnology-based delivery systems for acne medications, which could improve penetration through scar tissue. Additionally, regenerative medicine approaches using growth factors and stem cells show potential for improving both acne and scar appearance. Photodynamic therapy combined with topical treatments is also being explored as a non-invasive option for treating acne in difficult-to-reach areas, such as under scars.

Clogged pores under scar tissue

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serene
, 22 Aug 2017

I think that with chronic picking we develop a certain type of acne which is unique to our condition. I have found myself recently having a breakout which felt hard under the skin yet on the surface resembled a clogged pore. When I tried to extract it with a blackhead extractor, nothing would come out yet I noticed some scar tissue (which appears whiter than surrounding skin and has a harder consistency). I tweezed the scar tissue open and was able to extract a dense comedone. I dont understand how my body would have naturally expelled this particular clogged pore since it was underneath a scar and was calcified into a hard substance. I’ve been using salicylic acid diligently over the past week in order to curb acne, and what I noticed is that the salicylic acid tends to harden some of the forming pimples under the skin, creating a large blackhead or comedone. Therefore, it probably would have taken a long time to be reabsorbed or purged by the body. I am not sure if it would be able to be purged since it was blocked off by scar tissue. So right now I am a bit confused as to how I am to take care of my skin when choosing to fully abstain from skin picking. What exactly do I do if I get these deep blocked pores on the skin and pores which are blocked off by scars? Has anyone been battling with this? I dont want to be walking around for months with dense bumps on my skin. I understand not picking small surface pimples and whiteheads which can eventually pop on their own, but its maddening to have to abstain from picking these deeper cysts related to scarring. Wondering if there is anyone who can relate and understand what I am referring to.

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Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars – acne support

What are keloid and hypertrophic scars?

Keloid and hypertrophic scars are common types of scarring that can occur as a result of the acne healing process. They appear as raised lesions of scar tissue on the skin and are a result of the overgrowth of fibrous tissue in the region where the acne lesion had developed.

They are more common on the chest, back and shoulders, where the skin is thicker, although they can occur around the jaw line. They are also more common in people with darker skin types.

What is the difference between keloid and hypertrophic scars?

The difference between keloid and hypertrophic scars is their size in relation to the acne lesions that caused them. A keloid scar is larger than the acne lesion that caused it. A hypertrophic scar is the same size as the acne lesion that caused it.

What factors make it more likely that keloid and hypertrophic scars will form?

Like all acne scars, the formation of keloid and hypertrophic scars is largely dependent on how your skin heals. If you tend to scar easily then you are more likely to develop acne scars.

Inflammation also plays a key role in development of acne scars. The deeper that inflammation from an acne lesion reaches into the skin the more likely it is to scar upon healing. This is one of the reasons that it is important to treat acne as soon as possible, to lower the risk of deep inflammation.

Picking or squeezing acne lesions can damage the skin and lead to an increased chance of scarring. It is not advised that you pick at or squeeze your acne. However, in reality many people do this in an attempt to remove pus. If you are insistent on picking at or squeezing your acne to remove pus then please see our guide on how to lower your chances of damaging your skin here.

You are also more likely to develop acne scars if you smoke, as smoking leads to an increased risk of scarring in general.

People with darker skin types are also at a higher risk of developing thicker keloid and hypertrophic scars as they have a variety of genetic factors that increase the likelihood of thickened scars occurring.

Keloid and Hypertrophic Scar Treatments

Treatment for keloid and hypertrophic scarring comes in two stages, as it does for other acne scarring. First stage treatments for keloid and hypertrophic scarring are designed to reduce the height of the scar so that the skin’s surface returns to being flat. Second stage treatments for keloid and hypertrophic scarring are aimed at reducing skin discolouration in the newly flat scar.

It is important to remember that scar reduction treatments are not readily available on the NHS. If you are thinking about paying for a scar reduction treatment privately then be sure to research your practitioner and make certain that they are qualified to conduct the procedure, such as a Consultant Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon. It is often advisable to use a practitioner who can carry out all of the various forms of scar reduction treatments that are discussed above, as they will be able to advise you on the best option for your skin colour and nature of scarring.

Please note that all of the treatments below have potential side effects, such as burns, skin peeling, irritation, skin bleaching and changes to skin texture. Darker skin types are at higher risk of suffering the side effects of scar removal. Please talk to your healthcare provider to find out more about the risks involved for any treatment that you may be considering.

Stage One Treatments

Steroid Injections

This is where steroids are injected directly into the scar to soften and thin the fibrous tissue, lowering the scar’s height. It often takes several steroid injections spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart to achieve the best results.

Dermabrasion

This is where a special tool is used to remove the top layers of skin through friction, not unlike a sanding machine. As the layers of skin are removed the keloid or hypertrophic scar becomes flatter.

Chemical Peels

This treatment works by removing the outer layers of skin using high concentrations of glycolic or salicylic acid.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapies work in two ways. Ablative laser therapy uses high energy light to remove the outer layers of skin whilst encouraging new collagen production in the lower layers of skin. Non-ablative laser therapy uses heat to encourage new collagen production in the skin without damaging the outer layer. The removal of the outer layers and/or the production of new collagen results in a reduction in scar height. There are multiple laser therapies that are available for the treatment of acne scarring. A consultant dermatologist will be able to determine which treatment is right for you based on your skin colour and the nature of your scarring.

Stage Two Treatments

Dermabrasion

This is where a special tool is used to remove the top layers of skin through friction, not unlike a sanding machine. As the layers of skin are removed the discolouration caused by scarring can become reduced.

Microneedling

This treatment is sometimes known as collagen induction therapy. It works by using a special tool to create several, tiny injuries within a scar. These injuries usually heal within two days and new collagen is formed inside of the scar. Collagen is a protein that help gives our skin strength and elasticity. Through this process microneedling can reduce the discolouration associated with scarring by encouraging old skin cells to shed, including skin cells that have been discoloured by excess pigment. Multiple treatments tend to be required every four-six weeks to gain maximum benefits. It is important to note that reducing skin discolouration is not microneedling’s main purpose and targeted treatments designed for treating skin discolouration may work better.

Chemical Peels

This treatment works by removing the outer layers of skin using high concentrations of glycolic or salicylic acid. In doing so, it can reduce the discolouring that is associated with scarring. This treatment should only be carried out by a qualified practitioner (visit www.jccp.org.uk).

Laser Therapy

Ablative laser therapy uses high energy light to remove the outer layers of skin, which can reduce the discolouration that is associated with scarring. There are multiple laser therapies that are available for the treatment of acne scarring. A consultant dermatologist will be able to determine which treatment is right for you based on your skin colour and the nature of your scarring.

We do not recommend that you pop your acne lesions (spots). Instead, you should use a safe, targeted acne treatment. To find out more about the treatments that are available, and how you can cover your acne lesions, visit the Treatments and Covering Acne sections of this website.

Picking or squeezing acne lesions can damage the skin and lead to an increased chance of scarring. It is not advised that you pick or squeeze your acne. However, in reality many people do this in an attempt to remove pus, blackheads or whiteheads. If you are insistent on picking at or squeezing your acne to remove pus, blackheads or whiteheads then you should follow our guide below to lower your chances of damaging your skin and scars forming.

It is important to note that this technique does not remove the risk of permanent scarring.

Warnings

• We do not recommend that you pop or squeeze your acne lesions. Instead, you should use a safe, targeted acne treatment. To find out more about the treatments that available, and how you can cover your acne, visit the Treatments and Cover-Up sections of this website.
• This guide is designed to help lower the risk of permanent injury to the skin for people who are insistent upon squeezing their acne spots. However, scarring and skin damage are still risk factors even when following this guide.
• Do not apply anything more than gentle pressure in an attempt to drain more pus. You will be at risk of squeezing only inflamed skin, which cannot drain, and force the acne-causing blockage deeper into the follicle.
• If you squeeze out blood then you should stop. Squeezing out blood is not the only time when you should stop. Never apply anything more than gentle pressure and stop if the pus, blackhead or whitehead does not easily release.

Guide

Step one: Gently cleanse and sterilise the acne lesion, surrounding skin and your hands using an anti-bacterial skin wash.

Step two: Place the tips of your index fingers either side of the acne lesion.

Step three: Applying gentle pressure, press your fingers downwards and towards each other. Don’t use your nails as you may break the skin, risking infection. If pus or the blockage is not released then DO NOT apply more pressure and leave the acne lesion alone.

Step four: Gently re-cleanse the area of skin and your hands.

Step five: Apply an acne treatment to the acne lesion/area.

If pus or a blockage does not release after following this guide then do not apply further pressure. You will be at further risk of causing permanent damage to the skin, forcing the blockages deeper into the skin, and breaking the follicle wall, which can result in inflamed acne and acne cysts forming.

How to get rid of a pimple scar

March 04, 2009, 02:11

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in the center where I had this procedure, Eliza, it was called CO2 laser, I had scars on my cheeks, now there is no trace

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