Acne Scars

Once your acne clears, you may be left with permanent acne scars. The more severe your acne is, and the longer you suffer from breakouts, the more likely you are to be affected with these unattractive reminders of previous breakouts—those who suffer with cystic acne are at a high risk. However, though it’s less common, even mild acne can cause permanent scarring for some people.

Here are four basic types of acne scars:

• Ice Pick Acne Scars—also known as “pits”, these scars are deep and narrow, making the skin look as though it’s been pierced by an ice pick. These are the most common type of scars caused by acne and are formed when an infection from a severe blemish destroys surrounding tissue.

• Rolling Scars—these create a wave-like appearance on otherwise normal-looking skin. Rolling scars occur when fibrous bands of tissue develop under the skin’s surface and pull against deeper structures in the skin.

• Boxcar Scars—these are similar to ice pick scars, but wider. They also have more angular edges and usually occur on the temples and the cheeks when an inflammatory breakout destroys collagen and leaves the skin in the area without support. They can be superficial or deep, depending on how much collagen tissue was lost.

• Hypertrophic scars: Generally, these are raised, firm scars caused by an overproduction of collagen. Some stay within the boundary of the original wound, while others, called Keloids, extend beyond the borders of the original wound.

Many people think red or dark marks that sometimes remain after a pimple heals are scars. In fact, these surface marks aren’t scars—instead, they’re known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. They are more common in darker skin tones, and these marks can last for years. There’s no real way to prevent them, aside from avoiding pimples in the first place. Topical lightening creams and more advanced dermatological procedures may help fade discolorations more quickly. Always use sunscreen since UV exposure can darken existing marks.

Whether you’re seeing scars or hyperpigmenation, the key is to act immediately. What it comes down to is this: with every breakout, there’s a risk of permanent scarring.  Begin an acne-fighting regimen right away, the first time you experience a breakout, to help avoid future scar-causing pimples. It’s also crucial to avoid picking at your blemishes, which will only increase your increase your chances for permanently damaging your skin. If you already have scars, see a dermatologist who can give you reliable information about procedures to minimize scars. If you believe you have cystic acne, it’s important to see a dermatologist as soon as possible to help treat your skin and avoid further permanent scaring.

And don’t fall for false promises—there are currently no over-the-counter treatments that can correct the skin-texture changes caused by acne scarring.