Acne Scar Treatment and Care to Help Prevent Recurrence

When acne appears, many people pick at it with their hands or squeeze it, right? If you do this, it can remain as an acne scar and slow down skin recovery, so you should be careful. In some cases, even normal skin cells can be damaged, leaving dark red marks on the skin or causing it to become indented. That is why, if acne keeps recurring, it is better to manage it at a dermatology clinic from the start.

Why early treatment of scars is important

As people get older, skin elasticity cells decrease, and the skin’s regenerative ability naturally weakens. If elasticity also decreases around scars and pores, they can become saggy or enlarged, and pigmented areas may become darker. Over time, these problems can become more severe to the point where they cannot be covered with makeup. That is why preventing acne scars in the first place is the most important thing, and then it is necessary to carry out treatment according to the type of scar.

Types of acne scars: could you have one too?

Acne scars vary in shape and characteristics depending on the type. Ice pick scars, as the name suggests, are deeply and narrowly pitted, as if poked with an ice pick. They usually form when the face has been damaged deeply, and although small, they are noticeable. Next, rolling scars have a shape that makes the skin look gently undulated. The area beneath the scar is broad and shallowly indented, so the skin can feel wave-like.

Boxcar scars are indented at right angles like a square box, with clear borders and a flat depression. Lastly, hypertrophic scars refer to skin that has become raised, and they tend to appear in areas where inflammation was severe. Since these scars form from different causes and at different depths, you need to check the scar type carefully and set up a treatment plan accordingly.

Acne scar treatment should also focus on preventing recurrence

Acne scar treatment is not something that ends with a single session; it requires a systematic process that also includes preventing recurrence. At dermatology clinics, laser procedures are performed according to the type of scar. Laser treatment promotes skin regeneration and helps new tissue grow in depressed areas. It can also smooth out an uneven skin surface and flatten raised areas. Treatment is carried out by selecting the type of laser that matches each feature. After the procedure, regenerative care follows to support skin recovery, strengthen the skin barrier, and help damaged areas heal well. Medical skin care for preventing recurrence is also essential. Products containing ingredients that help regulate sebum production or reduce inflammation are used to prevent acne from coming back. It is also good to continue receiving care consistently even after treatment.

If scars remain on the skin

If you have acne scars, the basics are to wash your face with a gentle cleanser to reduce skin irritation and apply enough moisturizer so the skin does not become dry. Drinking water often to replenish moisture in the skin is also good, and you should be careful because prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays can cause the scar area to become discolored. Right after treatment, the skin is naturally more sensitive, so you need to pay a bit more attention to skin care. Scars do not heal easily, but if you continue managing them consistently, your skin can gradually become clearer and smoother, so do not give up and please see a board-certified dermatologist.