Discover the causes and solutions for dealing with pimples that develop under scar tissue. Get expert insights on how to effectively treat this unique skin condition and prevent further complications.

What Causes Pimples to Form Under Scar Tissue?

The formation of pimples under scar tissue is a common issue faced by those with a history of chronic skin picking or acne. When the skin is damaged, such as through the formation of scar tissue, the pores beneath the scar can become clogged, leading to the development of deep, hard pimples or comedones.

One key factor is the nature of scar tissue itself. Scar tissue is composed of a dense, fibrous material that can block the natural drainage of pores, trapping oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria underneath. Additionally, the scar tissue may have a different texture and structure compared to healthy skin, further contributing to clogged pores.

Another factor is the use of certain acne treatments, such as salicylic acid, which can harden and solidify the contents of these blocked pores, creating a thick, stubborn comedone. While these treatments can be effective in treating surface-level breakouts, they may inadvertently worsen the issue of pimples underneath scar tissue.

Recognizing and Differentiating Pimples Under Scar Tissue

Pimples that develop under scar tissue can often be distinguished by their unique characteristics. They may feel hard and deeply embedded under the skin, rather than the soft, raised appearance of a typical pimple. The surface of the skin may also appear whiter and have a more pronounced, dense texture compared to the surrounding area.

It’s important to note that these pimples may not be easily extractable, even with tools like a blackhead extractor. The scar tissue can make it challenging to fully remove the clogged material, and attempts to do so may further damage the skin and worsen the issue.

Effective Strategies for Managing Pimples Under Scar Tissue

Addressing pimples under scar tissue requires a multifaceted approach that focuses on both treating the existing issue and preventing future occurrences. Here are some effective strategies to consider:

1. Gentle Exfoliation

Incorporating gentle chemical exfoliants, such as those containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid, can help break down the buildup of dead skin cells and oil within the clogged pores. However, it’s important to use these products cautiously and avoid over-exfoliating, as this can further irritate the skin and worsen the problem.

2. Targeted Treatments

In some cases, it may be necessary to seek professional help from a dermatologist. They can assess the severity of the issue and recommend specialized treatments, such as intralesional corticosteroid injections or retinoid creams, to help reduce the appearance and recurrence of pimples under scar tissue.

3. Avoiding Skin Picking

One of the most crucial steps in managing pimples under scar tissue is to avoid the temptation to pick or squeeze the affected area. Picking can further damage the skin and lead to the formation of additional scar tissue, perpetuating the cycle of clogged pores and pimple development.

Preventing Future Pimples Under Scar Tissue

To prevent the recurrence of pimples under scar tissue, it’s important to address the underlying factors that contribute to their formation:

1. Maintain a Consistent Skincare Routine

Developing and sticking to a gentle, yet effective skincare routine can help keep the pores clear and prevent the buildup of oil and dead skin cells that can lead to clogged pores under scar tissue.

2. Treat Acne Promptly

Addressing acne breakouts as soon as they occur can help minimize the risk of scarring and the subsequent development of pimples under scar tissue. Seeking professional treatment, if necessary, can improve the overall health and appearance of the skin.

3. Embrace Sun Protection

Protecting the skin from UV damage can help prevent the formation of additional scar tissue, which can further contribute to the issue of pimples under scar tissue.

Staying Positive and Seeking Support

Dealing with pimples under scar tissue can be a frustrating and emotionally draining experience. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone and that there are resources and support available to help you manage this condition effectively.

Consider joining online communities or seeking the guidance of a dermatologist or mental health professional to help you navigate the challenges and find sustainable solutions for your skin health.

Conclusion

Pimples under scar tissue can be a complex and persistent issue, but with the right approach, it is possible to manage and prevent their formation. By understanding the underlying causes, implementing gentle yet effective treatments, and maintaining a consistent skincare routine, you can take control of your skin health and find relief from this frustrating condition.

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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December 19, 2009 , 21:40

#13

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

December 20, 2009, 02:33

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Ayurvedic cream “Klirvin” helped me, though for 2 months I was smeared instead of creams at night and during the day and as a base for foundation. it really helps

Ayurveda thing!!!

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Ivan this is really a big problem! Here you need to shoot the prick! Valera your time has come0002 February 11, 2012, 04:38

#49

Blondinochka082

Dilyara, you understand that all procedures are selected according to the type of skin and the condition of the skin. ..there were peels and masks…everything in time depends on the skin….it took about six months (but all this is individual)…For starters, just go to a cometologist and consult…I advise the clinic on Dmitrovsky highway Klem-clinic)))))

February 11, 2012 , 09:02

#50

Huge subcutaneous pimple on forehead.

Huge subcutaneous …

April 20, 2014, 02:56

31 answers

Last –

May 10, 23:29 Go to

April 20, 2014, 10:04

#1

April 20, 2014, 10:10

900 06 #2

Guest

You go to a beautician, you pay a penny. I think no more than 100 r and they will burn it with a current. It will decrease in size, all that remains is to cover up an even spot

April 20, 2014 10:21 am

#3

April 20, 2014 10:33 am

#4

90 509 April 20, 2014 12:01

#5

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#6

April 20, 2014, 21:29

#7

Guest

Author, if this problem occurs to you regularly and frequency, I would have acquired bangs if I were you.

April 21, 2014, 20:55

#8

Guest

Do nothing now. When the pimple is blown away, you just need to squeeze it out and burn it with something. That’s why he periodically becomes inflamed, because there is a rod, he needs a way out.

April 22, 2014 11:29 am

#9

April 22, 2014 7:14 pm

#10

22 April 2014, 20:54

#11

lazanja

Balm Keeper removes inflammation very well, it contains antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and healing natural ingredients. It is enough to apply the balm to the inflammation and let it soak in, and after a few hours the redness noticeably disappears. swelling, everything gradually resolves. You can apply it under a band-aid at night.

November 13, 2014 11:49

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March 07, 2016, 09:45

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Guest

share my bitter experience of subcutaneous acne on my forehead.

Jul 24, 2016 07:49 PM

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Jul 02, 2017 10:45 PM

#20

Jul 04, 2017 10:45 am

#21

September 05 2017, 19:25

#22

Guest

I agree, bangs are what you need. At the same time experiment with the image.

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#24

Guest

agree, bangs is what you need. At the same time experiment with the image.

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#27

Guest

Author, if you have this problem with regular frequency, I would get bangs if I were you.

November 02, 2020, 13:49

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Made me laugh

Guardian, straight Star Wars))))

90 002 May 10, 11:29 pm

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Guest

Author, if you have this problem with regular intervals, I would get bangs if I were you.

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