As if enduring acne was not challenging enough, the scars left behind can be more difficult to camouflage than the original culprit. Don’t let the lingering effects of acne ruin your self-confidence. Treatment options for a smooth and even complexion from acne scars may just be easier than ridding your skin of acne. Addressing your gut health, insulin resistance and poor detoxifications are the best ways to treat acne and to get clearer skin. Once you have eliminated the source of acne, you will be able to shift your attention to treating the scars acne leaves behind.   

Types of acne scars will determine which method of treatment you will need. Atrophic scars are caused by loss of collagen or scarred collagen and are associated with severe cystic acne. Atrophic scars are depressions in the skin often described as ice pick scars, boxcar scars or rolling scars. These types of acne scars should be treated topically with retinol, glycolic acid, vitamin C or salicylic acid. More advanced solutions include in-office procedures such as microneedling, chemical peels or laser therapy. Hypertrophic scars are caused by too much collagen produced during healing. Hypertrophic scars look like elevated hard scars, also called keloids. The best treatments are steroid injections, laser therapy, and if necessary, surgery for removal. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is caused by too much melanin produced during healing and looks like brown, dark spots. Treating PIH scars with retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, vitamin C, Kojic acid, Tranexamic acid, hydroquinone and chemical peels are the best options for an even complexion. Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) is caused by inflammation during healing and shows up as red spots. Treatment includes retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, niacinamide, vitamin C, caffeine, green tea and laser procedures.

Skin resurfacing, serums, dermal injections and lasers are great solutions to acne scars and are effective treatments for a smooth and even complexion. Along with daily wear SPF and a skin care regimen to hydrate and moisturize your skin, clearing up acne scars is possible. When it comes to the health of the skin, broad questions lead to broad answers. To determine the best course of treatment for your individual, unique needs, our board-certified dermatologists at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology will customize a care plan to give you the glass-like, acne free skin of your dreams. Book your appointment by calling 602-867-7546 or schedule online at WEBSITE.