Exfoliation won't get rid of the scars completely, but they can make a difference with mild acne scarring, by means of resurfacing the skin. "If you're noticing a difference in texture due to acne scarring, using an exfoliant twice a week at home may help as it sloughs off the dead skin cells," says Kate.
Exfoliating can help fade acne scars and give them a smoother appearance.
Salicylic acid clears pores, reduces swelling and redness, and exfoliates the skin when applied topically. It's considered to be one of the best treatments for acne scars. You can add products with salicylic acid into your daily routine, or your skin care specialist may use it for less frequent chemical peels.
Exfoliating your scar helps remove it by getting rid of dead skin cells. Use an exfoliating cleanser and a loofah. After exfoliating, dry the area and apply a moisturizer. You can exfoliate as often as every three days.
Over exfoliating.
Although exfoliation can help fade scars naturally, overdoing it can cause irritation and make your scars worse. It can also burst existing acne, which may cause the bacteria to spread on other areas of the face.
Typically, exfoliating does not cause acne. In fact, in most cases, exfoliating can help minimize acne when performed properly as part of an acne treatment program. Beware though, if exfoliating is done improperly or too often, it can bring on problems. If you use a scrub, use as directed and be gentle.
Laser therapy, dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels can help improve the appearance of acne scars that aren't very deep. They all involve removing layers of skin cells to encourage skin to produce new cells.
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the surface of skin - and you may be wondering, does exfoliating remove dark spots? Well, sadly they won't be completely gone, but exfoliation will help to diminish the appearance of dark spots.
"It's important to not overdo it, as too much exfoliation can lead to skin dryness, irritation, and infection … and ultimately to scarring," Dr. Nova said.
Skin peels and serums containing vitamin C have a lightening effect on acne scars in about three weeks. These products are available over-the-counter (OTC) in pharmacies. Cocoa butter works as a great moisturizer. It has lightening properties, which help fade acne scars and lighten skin tone.
Acne scars are usually permanent, so it is important to see a dermatologist if you are developing them. Acne treatment can prevent scarring by stopping more spots from forming.
While existing scars cannot be waved away via magic wand, you can speed up the fading process by regularly applying certain topical creams, lotions, and gels to them. Some common ingredients in these scar treatments include aloe vera, cocoa butter, Vitamin E, honey, and other hydrating materials.
If you have a red or brownish mark on your face that you got from a bad zit, it should eventually fade. However, it may take 12 months or longer. If you're upset about acne marks, talk to your doctor, who might have advice on what you can do.
"The discoloration from dark marks will usually fade over time," says dermatologist Sejal Shah, MD, who notes that they tend to take between 3-6 months to go away on their own. "But, there are a number of treatment options to help speed up the process."
Alpha hydroxy acids, more commonly known as AHA, are a group of natural acids that are commonly used in skincare to remove the top layer of dead skin cells, so as to help acne and improve the appearance of acne scars.
AHA is best for dry skin and surface-level skin concerns like acne scars. BHAs are best for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Skincare products with acids work to dissolve and digest surface skin cells making way for blockages inside the skin to come to the surface, possibly resulting in a purging effect. Typically, the breakouts are minor and should subside within 2-4 weeks, making way for clearer, smoother and healthier skin.
Whether your acne is mild or more severe, regular exfoliation will smooth and soften the skin and brighten your complexion. It also helps reduce breakouts by keeping the pores from becoming clogged with the pus of dead cells and sebum (skin oil).
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, Dr. Gonzalez and Dr. Rabach recommend exfoliating anywhere from two to three times a week. Some people with oily skin may be able to tolerate more frequent exfoliation.
Moderate to severe cases of acne can result in scars that cause discoloration and indentations in the skin. In most cases, acne scars do improve over time without treatment. That's particularly true of discoloration. Indentations may be more stubborn and less prone to disappearing on their own.
Medical professionals can also remove acne scars surgically. This option is best for those with a small number of scars. There are two types of procedure: Punch excision: This involves removing individual scars, creating a new scar that is less obvious than the original.
Toners for acne help remove oil and impurities from the skin, preventing pores from becoming clogged. Some toners may also provide anti-inflammatory benefits and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Ingredients such as glycolic acid, witch hazel and salicylic acid are often used in toners for acne.