Types of Acne Scars and Treatments

Acne scarring is a byproduct of healing and for many people it’s completely unavoidable. Almost everyone deals with acne scars at some point in their lives. The types of scarring you can expect depends on the acne type and how you treat it. In general, moderate acne involves red bumps and pus-filled pimples, whereas severe acne like cystic acne leaves pus-filled cysts beneath the skin.

When these cysts heal, bright red or brown marks are left on the skin and these fade away by themselves over time. However, in severe cases, permanent scarring usually develops as the skin heals, especially if the acne was picked or squeezed instead of being treated.

Types of Acne Scar 

1) Atrophic or depressed scars ¹

• Most common on the face.
• Sits below the surrounding skin.
• They are formed when not enough collagen is made while the wound is healing.
• There are three types of atrophic scars:
  
  Rolling
• These are wide scars that typically have rounded edges and an irregular, rolling appearance.
• Most common type of scar that forms when long-term inflammatory acne is healing.
  
  Boxscar 
• These are wide, U-shaped scars that have sharp edges.
• Caused by widespread acne, chickenpox, or varicella, a virus causing a red, itchy rash with blisters.Ice pick

• These are deep and narrow scars developed from more severe types of acne.
• The most difficult scars to treat because they can extend far under the surface of the skin.

2) Hypertrophic scar²

• These occur when the skin makes too many collagens as the acne spot heals, causing a raised scar.

3) Keloid Scar

• These are similar to hypertrophic scars but are typically much thicker than the original acne spot, and can grow over time.
• They are usually darker than the surrounding skin and can be red or brown.
• May also cause symptoms, such as itchiness or pain.

4) Hyperpigmentation²

•    These are dark spots or discoloration caused by acne-related inflammation.

Scar Treatments Available In Pharmacy

1) Topical Silicone Gel³

• It is a safe and effective treatment for hypertrophic and keloid scars.
• It is easy to apply and cosmetically acceptable.

2) Collagen Powder/ Drink 

• It helps speed collagen formation and tissue repair to heal acne scars.

3) Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) ⁴

• It oftens found in products made to treat acne since they help to remove dead skin and prevent clogged pores.
• It also helps make acne scars appear less noticeable.

4) Lactic acid⁵

• It stimulates collagen renewal and speeds up cell turnover,  therefore lightening your scar if you use it regularly.

In a nutshell, acne scars can be frustrating, but there are many treatments that can make them less noticeable. The best way to treat an acne scar is to prevent it in the first place. Avoid picking, popping, or squeezing any breakout no matter how tempting to prevent irritating the skin and damaging the underlying tissue, which can lead to scars.

For more information on acne scars and its related treatment products, do approach the pharmacists at any CARiNG Pharmacy stores or message us on our Facebook page.