Acne breakouts can be frustrating, and they can also leave scars on the face and other areas of the body. Some people find that acne scars are an unwanted reminder of a painful and bothersome condition. However, acne scars do not have to be permanent, as some home remedies and medical treatments like dermabrasion can help remove acne scarring.
Home remedies
Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is a naturally occurring compound that is often an ingredient in acne skincare products. Salicylic acid helps clear dirt, skin cells, and other debris that leads to acne from the pores of the skin.
Retinoids, retinol, vitamin: It is important to note that retinoids can make the skin sensitive to the sun. Anyone using retinoids or retinol for acne or scarring treatment should wear sunscreen when going outdoors.
Alpha hydroxy acids: Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) can help get rid of dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Doctors may recommend AHAs and retinoids for treating acne, reducing the appearance of acne scars, and scarring.
Lactic acid: Lactic acid can act as a gentle peel to pull away dead skin cells. It may help reduce the appearance of acne scarring and smooth the overall texture of the skin.
Natural remedies
Home remedies that people have traditionally used to treat acne scars include skin treatments.
coconut oil
shea butter
aloe vera gel
raw honey
baking soda
lemon juice
Medical treatments
Several medical treatments, including dermal fillers, are available to help reduce acne scars.
Chemical peels: A dermatologist can recommend a type of peel that is suitable for a person’s skin type, acne severity, and scarring.
Microneedling for acne scarring: Microneedling is the process of inserting tiny needles into the skin surrounding the depressed acne scars to stimulate the body to make more collagen. This collagen may reduce the appearance of acne scars by smoothing out the skin.
Injections of corticosteroids may help with the treatment of raised acne scar tissue if a person has either hypertrophic or keloid scars.
Laser treatment: Laser treatment resurfaces the skin without the use of chemicals or scrubs. It removes the uppermost layer of skin to reveal the younger skin cells underneath, which can help reduce the appearance of scarring.
Dermal filler treatment: In some cases, dermatologists may recommend using soft tissue fillers to reduce the appearance of acne scarring.
Acne scars can be an unwanted reminder of acne and may reduce self-esteem in some patients, but they do not have to be permanent.
Many people have success using one or more home remedies. In cases of stubborn scarring, receiving medical treatments in the dermatologist’s office can also help get rid of acne scars.
