Retinol is a well-known ingredient in pro-aging creams, gels, and serums. What many people don't know is that it can also be used to treat acne and acne-scarred skin. It works on both the surface and middle layers of the skin to unclog pores, smooth scars, and improve tone and texture.
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that boosts skin exfoliation and prevents acne. It also promotes skin cell turnover and collagen production treating post-acne hyperpigmentation and minimizing the appearance of current acne scars, according to Deignan.
The thing is, prescription-strength retinoids can take three months for visible results, while over-the-counter retinol products can take six to 12 months to see really noticeable results.
Retinoids are derived from vitamin A and are often touted as a solution for people that suffer from acne or hyperpigmentation. But for scar treatment, retinoids can be ideal for helping to remove texture.
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.
“Vitamin A derivatives help to clear acne, as they help to regulate skin cell turnover,” says Marisa Garshick, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City. Unlike salicylic acid, which exfoliates dead skin cells and dissolves clogs, and benzoyl peroxide, which kills acne-causing bacteria, retinoids work from the inside out.
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.
“If the retinol you're using is too strong for your skin causing inflammation, darker skin tones may have a higher risk of discoloration, or hyperpigmentation, from the use of it," she adds. Dr. Icecreamwala recommends starting with a retinol that is 0.3 or 0.5 percent.
But, to help treat current breakouts and prevent future ones, there's a need to keep pores unclogged and encourage skin cell turnover. Instead of using harsh scrubs, opt for a chemical exfoliant. Cleansers and serums containing AHAs (like glycolic acid), BHAs (like salicylic acid), and retinols can all help.
Applying retinol is a long-term treatment which promotes fresh skin, fewer blemishes and reduction in acne breakouts. Whereas in the short term, it can lead to acne breakouts, skin peeling, dryness, and a range of other frustrating temporary outcomes. The purge phase usually lasts for two to six weeks.
In some cases, a doctor or dermatologist may suggest a chemical peel or microdermabrasion to help improve the appearance of scarred areas. These milder treatments can be done right in the office. For serious scarring from previous bouts with acne, several types of treatment can help: Laser resurfacing.
Surface scars may be completely removed, and deeper acne scars may appear less noticeable. Potential severe side effects include scarring and changes in skin color. Chemical peel. Your doctor applies a chemical solution to the scar tissue to remove the top layer of skin and minimize the appearance of deeper scars.
In general, most acne scars will not go away by themselves or even with at-home treatments with chemical exfoliants like lactic or glycolic acid. For true acne scar removal, you will need acne scars treatments to achieve even-toned skin with a smooth texture.
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.
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.
Mix distilled water — a little at time — into 2 tablespoons of baking soda until it forms a paste. Wet your scar with distilled water and then apply the paste to the wet scar. Hold the paste in place with a warm compress for 15 minutes. Rinse the area and repeat daily.
Retinoids minimize the appearance of wrinkles, bolster skin's thickness and elasticity, slow the breakdown of collagen (which helps keep skin firm), and lighten brown spots caused by sun exposure.
Use Exfoliants Sparingly After the Adjustment Period
After two to six weeks of using tretinoin, it's usually okay to start using an exfoliant. However, it's best to use exfoliating products as sparingly as possible while using tretinoin to avoid potentially irritating your skin.
Retinoids work best if you use them daily. Specifically, they should be used at night because some types are deactivated by light and air. It's important to start slowly and allow your skin time to adjust. Using too much too quickly can cause redness, dryness, and irritation.
Topical vitamin C may help reduce acne scars, as well as acne-related inflammation and hyperpigmentation.
Acne scars are difficult to treat, but vitamin C can help improve their appearance in several ways with consistent use. It can help prevent the formation of acne scars by improving skin health. During the process of scar healing, vitamin C promotes collagen so that scars will be smaller and less noticeable.
Start by adding the product to your skin care routine one night per week at first. If you don't notice side effects, you can apply it more often. To reduce the risk of irritation, try washing your face first and then waiting about half an hour before you apply the retinol treatment.