Dealing with a nasty breakout can be daunting, but the aftermath is almost always worse. Acne scars are a visible reminder of those pesky pimples we couldn't resist picking at. However, even when we manage to resist the urge, acne scars can still happen due to factors we’re not often aware of. In this beginner's guide, we'll explore the world of acne scars and provide simple solutions from the Mavian Beauty HQ to help you bring back good skin.
What is acne?
Anyone who has experienced acne before can attest to how frustrating it can be when they pop up at the worst times, like before a date, party, or work presentation — and they often do. Acne can affect anyone at any age but is especially common among teenagers, those with oily skin, and women experiencing hormonal imbalances.
Commonly called pimples, acne vulgaris specifically concerns the hair-oil gland unit of the skin. It happens when there is an overproduction of sebum, which causes our pores to clog and become inflamed. Hence, they tend to creep up in areas with more oil glands, like the face, chest, upper back (dubbed “bacne”) and shoulders. Acne can be whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts. Also, bacteria in our skin can trigger or worsen acne, although bad hygiene isn’t always to blame!
Some people’s experience with acne can be mild and fleeting. Still, unfortunately, others have to deal with more severe or longer-lasting ones due to genetics or conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome that require a holistic treatment.
If the severity of your acne is bothering you, know that you should see a board-certified dermatologist for a personalized treatment plan, as different types of acne may look similar.
What causes acne scars?
Some people never get acne scars (or at least not for long). But most of us will deal with at least a few at some point in our lives. The appearance of these scars can vary depending on the type and severity of the acne. While most red or brown marks left behind by healed acne usually clear up over time as skin cells renew, severe acne, primarily cystic acne, is more likely to result in permanent scarring.
It's important to treat your acne properly and avoid picking or squeezing it, which can heighten your risk of scarring.
What are the types of acne scarring?
Without throwing too much medical speak, you should be aware of two main types of acne scarring: discoloration scarring and indentation scarring. Discoloration scarring, also known as dark spots or blemishes, happens when hyperpigmentation causes the affected skin to stay darker even after the pimples have healed.
On the other hand, indentation or pitted scarring is more common with severe acne. It occurs when the top layer of skin doesn't fully regenerate, leaving a small crater or bump in the skin that causes uneven texture. Knowing the type of acne scarring you have can help determine the best course of post-acne treatment for you.
Are acne scars permanent?
The good news is that there are ways to reduce their appearance. As mentioned, the type of scarring you have will determine the best course of treatment. If you have indentation scarring, it may require more advanced and often expensive treatments. But don't worry; options are available to help you achieve healthy-looking skin even if those little battle scars choose to stay.
How can I treat acne scars?
If you're dealing with discoloration acne scarring, start using at-home retail topicals specifically designed to counteract hyperpigmentation. Look for brightening serums such as the Vitamin C’ Beautify Serum or products that contain the holy grail ingredient retinol, like the Age Renewal Beautify Serum. These can help to even out your skin tone and minimize the appearance of discoloration.
Suppose you're dealing with more severe hyperpigmentation or deeper indentation scarring. In that case, you may need to seek more advanced treatment options. Visit a medical aesthetician for treatments like chemical peels, micro-needling, laser skin resurfacing, or prescription brightening products. Some turn to mechanical peels, which you can hack at home using the Hydro Deep Cleansing Facial Device. These options can help significantly reduce acne scars' appearance and give you smoother, clearer skin after months of consistent use.
Shop the Vitamin C’ Beautify Serum, Age Renewal Beautify Serum, and Hydro Deep Cleansing Facial Device.
How can acne scars be prevented?
Prevention is key if you have acneic skin or it simply overreacts to new ingredients and the environment it comes in contact with. Here are a few steps to prevent acne scars from forming.
- Avoid the temptation to pop a pimple. Picking at your skin can cause more harm than good and boost your chances of scarring.
- Treat your skin early with an acne serum, retinol product, or antibacterial topical. Remember to patch test!
- Wear sunscreen daily and reapply every two hours for all-day sun protection. Be sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen appropriate for your skin type to avoid clogging your pores or having a greasy finish that emphasizes your acne even more.
- Keep your skin moisturized to support its recovery and reduce the appearance of existing acne scars.
- Making small lifestyle changes such as changing your pillowcase more often, staying hydrated, and getting more sleep can stop acne from developing in the first place.
How to do an acne facial at home?
Additionally, you can upgrade your daily skincare routine with a weekend facial geared toward acne prevention. Without further ado, here’s how you can DIY acne facials (no popping involved — leave that to professionals, girls!).
What you’ll need:
- A gentle cleanser
- Profound Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush
- Professional Nano Facial Steamer
- Plasma Acne Care
- Vitamin C’ Beautify Serum OR Age Renewal Beautify Serum
- A moisturizer
A step-by-step guide to doing an anti-acne facial at home:
- Step 1: Use a gentle skin cleanser with a Profound Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush. Utilizing a facial tool that massages while it cleans effectively helps buff away dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin, leaving it fresh and clean.
- Step 2: Use a Professional Nano Facial Steamer to open your pores. This step will help to loosen any impurities clogging your pores, making it easier to draw them out. Alternatively, you may place your face over a bowl of boiled water and cover your head with a towel to trap the steam.
- Step 3: Once your pores are open, it's time to reach for the Plasma Acne Care. This handheld device uses hot plasma technology from Japan & Korea to soothe inflammation and speed up cell renewal in a non-invasive way. Apply a drop of Vitamin C Beautify Serum OR Age Renewal Beautify Serum — your choice — to your face, gently patting with your fingers, and use the Plasma Acne Care to give yourself a nice massage and maximum benefits of your serum.
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Step 4: Conclude your DIY acne facial with a moisturizer for your skin type. Moisturizer will help to lock in all the ingredients in the previous steps and leave a soft and supple finish.
Remember that at-home facials are not meant to replace professional spa facials or dermatologist treatments but to complement them. Results also only happen over time and with regular sessions.
Shop the Profound Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush, Professional Nano Facial Steamer, Plasma Acne Care, Vitamin C’ Beautify Serum, and Age Renewal Beautify Serum.
Next Steps: Shop by Skin Concern on Mavian Beauty
We know that dealing with acne scars can be frustrating and disheartening, but don't lose hope! At Mavian Beauty, we offer spa-grade facial devices and skincare for acne-prone skin and dark spots. Continue browsing two of our collections made just for you:
- Our Dark Spots & Pigmentation Products are specifically crafted to exfoliate dead skin cells, lighten dark spots and acne scars, and protect sensitive skin from further sun damage. You can expect lasting results with regular use of our Vitamin C mask, portable LED red light therapy, micro-needling derma rollers, and other products in this collection.
- Our master esthetician’s top picks in our Oily & Acne Products collection are designed to spring clean clogged pores, control breakouts, and boost cellular health. You can look forward to trying our sonic cleansing brush and massager, hot plasma therapy device, and other products in this collection.
With patience and persistence, you can achieve great results. Remember to take care of your skin by practicing good skincare habits and managing stress because prevention is always better than cure!
And if you need professional help, don't hesitate to seek a dermatologist who can guide you on your journey to healthy, glowing skin. You deserve to feel confident and beautiful, and we believe in you!
For more beauty tips and trends, browse the Mavian Beauty blog.
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