Acne Marks vs Acne Scars: What They Are and How to Get Rid of Them

Introduction

Did you know that between the ages of 12 and 24, over 85% of people have at least mild acne? That’s how common acne is.

Whether you’re dealing with occasional breakouts or more severe acne, the aftermath can often leave you with lingering marks and scars. While many people use the terms “acne marks” and “acne scars” interchangeably, they are not the same. Therefore, understanding the difference between acne marks and scars is necessary for choosing the right treatment for your skin. Therefore, in this blog, we will explore the key differences between acne marks vs acne scars and provide effective solutions to help you clear up your skin.

What Are Acne Marks and Acne Scars?

Understanding the difference between acne marks and scars is essential before knowing about any other parameter. Acne marks and scars result from acne, but they differ in appearance, cause, and persistence. Moreover, another type of acne fulminans called acne fulminans, which is accompanied by systemic symptoms and has deep roots in the skin.

Acne Marks

Acne marks refer to the discoloration or dark spots that remain after an acne breakout. These marks are typically temporary and occur when the skin heals from an inflammatory acne lesion. They are most often red, brown, or purple and are a result of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Acne marks do not cause any changes to the texture of the skin, meaning the skin remains smooth but shows evidence of past inflammation.

These marks usually fade over time with proper skin care and sun protection. However, they can take weeks or even months to disappear, depending on the severity of the inflammation and how well you care for your skin during the healing process.

Acne Scars

On the other hand, acne scars are permanent changes in the texture of the skin caused by severe acne. Scarring occurs when the acne lesion penetrates the deeper layers of the skin and damages the collagen. The skin’s attempt to heal the damage leads to either too much collagen (creating raised scars) or too little (causing depressions in the skin).

There are different types of acne scars:

• Atrophic Scars: These are indentations or depressions in the skin, including icepick, boxcar, and rolling scars.
• Hypertrophic Scars: These raised scars form due to an overproduction of collagen during the healing process.

Unlike acne marks, acne scars are permanent, but treatments can help reduce their appearance significantly. Moreover, acne can also appear on the shoulders called shoulder acne and is one of the most prevalent conditions in the US.

How to Get Rid of Acne Marks?

When addressing acne marks vs acne scars, the good news is that acne marks are usually much easier to treat. Here are some effective treatments for acne marks:

Topical Treatments

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant known for its ability to brighten the skin and fade dark spots. It helps reduce the appearance of acne marks by inhibiting melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin discoloration.
• Retinoids: Retinoids, such as tretinoin, are often used to treat acne scars and marks. They promote cell turnover, which helps fade dark spots and improves skin texture. Retinoids also stimulate collagen production, improving skin elasticity.
• Niacinamide: Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and hyperpigmentation. This makes it especially effective for treating post-inflammatory marks.
• AHAs and BHAs: Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are chemical exfoliants that help slough off dead skin cells and promote the growth of new, healthy skin. These exfoliants can help fade acne marks over time by speeding up the skin’s natural healing process.

Skincare Routine

A consistent skincare routine is key to fading acne marks. Always cleanse your skin gently to remove dirt and impurities, followed by a treatment serum containing ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide. Be sure to moisturize to keep your skin hydrated and promote healing. Most importantly, use sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher to prevent hyperpigmentation from worsening due to sun exposure.

Professional Treatments

If over-the-counter products don’t provide the results you’re looking for, several professional treatments can help:

• Chemical Peels: A chemical peel removes the outer layer of skin, revealing fresher, more even-toned skin underneath. This treatment is effective in reducing the appearance of acne marks.
• Micro needling: Micro needling involves tiny needles that create micro-injuries in the skin, which stimulate collagen production. This treatment is beneficial for both acne marks and scars, as it speeds up healing and improves skin texture.

How to Get Rid of Acne Scars?

Unlike acne marks, acne scars are more challenging to treat, as they involve permanent changes to the skin’s texture. However, several treatments can improve the appearance of acne scars.

Topical Treatments

• Retinoids: As mentioned earlier, retinoids are beneficial for both acne marks and scars. They help promote cell turnover, which can gradually improve the texture of acne scars. Over time, retinoids can help reduce the depth of atrophic scars.
• Silicone Gel: Silicone-based gels and sheets are commonly used to treat hypertrophic scars. They help to flatten and soften raised scars by hydrating the skin and regulating collagen production.

Professional Treatments

Several professional treatments are particularly effective for improving the appearance of acne scars:

• Micro needling: This treatment can also address acne scars by stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin. It’s especially effective for atrophic scars like icepick and boxcar scars.
• Laser Resurfacing: Laser treatments like fractional CO2 lasers can target the deeper layers of the skin to reduce scar tissue and stimulate collagen production. This treatment is ideal for both atrophic and hypertrophic scars.
• Dermal Fillers: Fillers can be injected into depressed acne scars (such as rolling scars) to lift the skin and create a smoother surface. This offers a temporary solution to improve skin texture.
• Subcision: Subcision is a technique used to treat tethered scars by breaking up the fibrous tissue beneath the skin. This helps lift depressed scars and improve their appearance.

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Home Remedies for Acne Marks and Scars

While professional treatments are often the most effective, several home remedies can help improve the appearance of both acne marks and scars.

• Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has soothing properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Applying fresh aloe vera gel to acne marks and scars can speed up recovery.
• Honey: Honey is a natural humectant that can help keep the skin moisturized. It also has antibacterial properties that can help prevent further breakouts while healing acne marks and scars.
• Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is often touted for its natural bleaching properties. However, it’s essential to use it cautiously, as it can increase sensitivity to the sun. If you use lemon juice, always follow up with sunscreen.
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that can help improve skin hydration and support skin healing. It’s especially effective for dry, flaky scars.

Conclusion

To conclude, in the debate of acne marks vs acne scars, it’s crucial to recognize the differences in appearance, cause, and treatment. Acne marks are temporary discolorations that fade with time and proper treatment, while acne scars are permanent changes in texture that require more intensive care. By understanding the difference between acne marks and scars, you can choose the right treatment options to help clear your skin and restore your confidence.

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