The Truth You Need to Know Before Acne Spreads into Scars

Acne and scars,

It is time to properly understand

the signals your skin is sending.

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This is Jamsil Gounsesang Dermatology Clinic.

Acne is often seen as a simple skin problem. However, if it is not managed properly, it can remain as long-lasting scars, causing not only skin concerns but also psychological stress.

Recently, conditions that show symptoms similar to acne, such as seborrheic dermatitis and folliculitis, have also been increasing. As a result, many people rely on self-treatment without an accurate distinction, which can make the condition worse.

Because the skin is like a mirror reflecting the condition of the body, true recovery can only follow when you look not only at the visible symptoms on the surface but also at the underlying causes and internal environment. Today, we will go over acne from proper understanding to scar types, effective treatments, and daily care step by step.

Acne is more than a sebum problem;

it can be a sign of internal imbalance.

Acne is a skin condition that mainly occurs when sebum production increases excessively, pores become blocked, and inflammation develops. But its causes are much more complex than they may seem.

Hormonal changes caused by puberty, the menstrual cycle, or stress stimulate the sebaceous glands, and greasy foods or a diet high in sugar create an environment where acne bacteria can multiply easily. When this is combined with lack of sleep, ultraviolet exposure, and reduced immunity, the skin barrier breaks down and acne worsens.

When the function of internal organs such as the stomach, liver, lungs, or urinary system declines, the effects can appear on the skin, causing acne to recur. Therefore, acne treatment requires an approach that addresses not only the inflammation on the surface but also the condition of the body as a whole.

Skin conditions that are easy to confuse with acne;

accurate distinction comes first. Seborrheic dermatitis and folliculitis, which can look similar to acne, require different treatments, so early differentiation is very important. Acne is mainly caused by sebum and acne bacteria; when squeezed, sebum comes out, and itching is rarely present.

On the other hand, seborrheic dermatitis is a condition that occurs when internal heat accumulates in the skin and immunity declines. It is characterized by lots of dead skin cells and oiliness, no sebum comes out even when squeezed, and persistent itching is accompanied. Folliculitis is caused by a bacterial infection and often develops when the skin barrier is weakened. When squeezed, a yellow fluid without a core comes out.

Although the three conditions look similar, the treatment approach is completely different, so trying self-treatment without a specialist’s diagnosis can make symptoms worse.

When acne leaves scars, there is a reason

why it appears differently by area Once acne calms down to some extent, marks or scars often remain. But if you look closely, the shape of the scars differs slightly depending on the area of the face.

In areas with many sebaceous glands, such as the nose or chin, raised scars are more likely to form, while in areas with fewer sebaceous glands, such as the cheeks, depressed scars often develop.

In particular, if inflammatory acne on the cheeks persists for more than three weeks, the dermis can be damaged, increasing the likelihood of depressed scars. In areas where the skin and bone are close together, such as the jawline leading to the ears, keloid scars can also form.

Scar types include papular (raised), depressed, and pigmented types, and it is common for multiple forms to be mixed on one person’s face.

Therefore, scar treatment should not be approached with a single method; instead, a customized plan based on the condition of each area and the scar type is needed.

Acne scars

require personalized treatment. Acne scars rarely disappear naturally just because time has passed. In particular, depressed scars that damage the dermis undergo fibrosis, making it difficult for the skin to recover on its own, so active treatment is necessary. Representative methods include fractional laser treatments such as Fraxel or StarLux. These lasers provide microscopic thermal stimulation within the skin to induce collagen regeneration and help restore damaged skin texture.

For deep scars that have been present for a long time, high-output lasers that can strongly stimulate the dermis, such as UltraPulse Encore, may be effective.

If you want to manage pigmentation and acne recurrence at the same time, multifunction lasers such as Acutoning can also be used. Treatment does not end in one or two sessions; depending on the skin condition, repeated procedures are often necessary. Since the skin may become sensitive after each treatment, regenerative cream, sunscreen, and moisturizing care must be carried out together.

Above all, the most important thing is to make it a habit to manage acne early

so that scars do not form. Treatment after scars have developed is important, but in fact, the most important thing is to manage acne well in the early stages and prevent it from progressing into scars.

The habit of squeezing with your hands or touching the area frequently leads to damage to the surrounding tissue and bacterial infection, which ultimately creates deeper scars. Cleansing should be done gently twice a day with a mildly acidic product to minimize irritation, and when necessary, low-irritation extraction or help from a professional is recommended.

To reduce the causes of acne, sleep habits and diet are also important.

Getting deep sleep between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. is very helpful for skin regeneration, and greasy foods or sugar can increase sebum and worsen acne, so make it a habit to eat plenty of fresh vegetables and stay well hydrated. Also, ultraviolet rays worsen acne pigmentation and destroy collagen in the skin, slowing scar recovery. Even indoors, it is basic to use a sunscreen with an appropriate SPF and PA rating.

The skin reflects your physical condition and lifestyle

exactly as it is. Acne and scars cannot be resolved by treating only the surface.

Understanding the causes behind the visible symptoms and finding the right direction for treatment. And above all, creating an environment in which the skin can heal itself is the most important thing.

When professional treatment is consistently combined with daily efforts such as sleep, diet, stress management, and sun protection, the skin begins to respond.

It is okay if you do not see an obvious change right away. Over time, consistent care and the right routine will eventually restore your skin to a healthier state. If you are struggling with acne or scars, correct your direction starting now. Today's care determines tomorrow's skin.

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This article is provided by Jamsil Gounsesang Dermatology Clinic for the provision of medical information in accordance with Article 56, Paragraph 1 of the Medical Service Act. All procedures/surgeries carry the risk of side effects such as bleeding, infection, and nerve damage, so please proceed carefully after sufficient consultation with medical professionals.