Pimple (Acne) Scars: Causes, Treatment, & Removal

What is pimple/acne?

Pimple/Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. It often results in various types of blemishes, including whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and sometimes cysts or nodules. Pimple/Acne primarily affects the face, but it can also occur on the shoulders, back, chest, and other parts of the body. Although acne is most prevalent during adolescence, it can affect people of all ages. The severity of acne can vary from mild to severe, and its impact is not just physical but can also affect emotional well-being due to its visible nature.

What are acne scars?

Acne scars are permanent textural changes and indentations that develop on the skin as a result of severe acne. They occur when the deeper layers of the skin are damaged by inflammation or infection, often from cystic acne or picking at blemishes. There are several types of acne scars, including atrophic scars (which appear as depressions in the skin, like icepick, boxcar, and rolling scars) and hypertrophic or keloid scars (which are raised and occur when the skin produces too much collagen).

Types of acne scars

Acne scars can manifest in several types, these includes:

• Depressed scars: These acne scars create depression in the skin surface due to loss of collagen and tissue as skin heals from inflamed acne.
• Ice pick scars: These are small, deep pits that resemble tiny punctures in the skin. They’re narrow but can be quite noticeable.
• Boxcar scars: Characterized by broad, box-like depressions, these scars have distinct edges and can give the skin a pitted look.
• Rolling scars: Shallow, wavy indentations that create an uneven, rolling texture on the skin’s surface.
• Raised scars: These type of acne scars appears to be an overgrowth of skin that goes beyond skin surface. It is due to the excessive production of a type of collagen that develops fibrotic tissue.
• Hypertrophic scars: These are elevated scars that form due to excessive collagen production. They often appear red or pink and may feel itchy.
• Keloid scars: Similar to hypertrophic scars but extend beyond the original acne site. They can be larger and more prominent, particularly in people with darker skin tones.

Causes of acne scars:

Not all inflamed acne can leave acne scars. It is important to understand that acne scarring is influenced by several factors that can lead to the development of various acne scars.

• Severity of pimple breakout: Intense inflammation has greater damage to the skin tissue which can disrupt the ability of the skin to regenerate and heal normally. 
• Physical manipulation: Poorly managed breakout prolongs the inflammation. Picking, squeezing, and popping the acne worsens the damage to the skin which potentiates acne scarring.
• Genetics and hormones: Some individuals are genetically inclined to develop scars which are attributed to variances in collagen dynamics, hormones, and inflammatory response.
• Sun exposure and lifestyle: Excessive sun exposure and outdoor activities can increase likelihood of acne scarring due to disruption of skin natural healing process.

Diagnosis and tests for acne & acne scars

Diagnosing acne and acne scars typically involves a clinical evaluation by a dermatologist. The process includes a thorough examination of the skin to assess the type, severity, and extent of the acne, as well as identifying any resulting scars. Here's what the diagnosis and testing might involve:

1. Physical examination: The dermatologist will visually inspect the skin to classify the acne (e.g., comedonal, inflammatory, cystic) and assess the type of scars present (e.g., atrophic, hypertrophic).

2. Medical history: A detailed medical history is taken to identify potential triggers or underlying causes, such as hormonal imbalances, family history, medications, and lifestyle factors.

3. Hormonal tests: In cases of severe acne, particularly in women, hormonal tests may be conducted to check for conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other hormonal imbalances that could be contributing to the acne.

4. Skin tests: While not commonly required, in some cases, skin tests or bacterial cultures may be taken to rule out other skin conditions or infections that mimic acne.

The combination of these diagnostic tools helps in developing a personalized treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of the patient, addressing both active acne and any resulting scars.

Treatment of pimples and acne scars

Acne scars are a multifaceted issue, influenced by the severity of the acne, the body’s healing process, genetic factors, and environmental elements. SKIN111 clinics offers a variety of treatments that can treat pimple break out and improve acne scars.

• Broadband light: It is a type of photo facial which effectively reduces inflammation and limits post-acne marks. It utilized special protocol by combining various light spectrum to kill bacteria-causing acne, inhibits inflammation, and improve skin healing.
• Chemical peel: It exfoliates the skin to prevent clogging of pores, which can reduce development of acne and support skin renewal.
• Laser treatment: Fractional lasers such as HALO, MOXI, PICO and Erbium Glass can effectively improve acne scars, especially depressed scars. Laser pulses create micro-trauma to the skin which stimulates skin regeneration and collagen production which reduces visibility of scars and improves overall skin quality. 
• Micro needling treatment: It involves puncturing the skin with tiny needles to create micro-injuries that will stimulate collagen production and skin remodeling. It can also be combined with Radiofrequency for more rejuvenation.
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): It contains growth factor that can help in skin renewal and repair. It can be applied or injected after any micro-needling treatments and laser procedures.
• Steroid injection: It can quickly reduce inflammation; however, it cannot be used as primary modality to treat severe break-out. It is also used as treatment for hypertrophic and keloid scars.
• Surgical scar revision: It is performed by incising and removing the scarred tissue. It is done by highly experienced Dermatologist.

What's the best way to remove pimple marks?

1. Chemical peels

• Chemical peels use acids to exfoliate the top layer of skin, revealing fresher skin underneath. Peels can be mild, moderate, or deep, depending on the intensity needed to treat the marks.

2. Laser treatments

• Fractional laser therapy: This targets deeper layers of the skin, promoting collagen production and skin renewal, which can help with both discoloration and texture.
• Intense pulsed light (IPL): IPL treatments can target pigmentation and help even out skin tone.

3. Microneedling

• Microneedling uses fine needles to create tiny punctures in the skin, stimulating collagen production and helping to fade scars and marks over time.

4. Radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN)

• Radiofrequency microneedling combines the benefits of microneedling with radiofrequency energy to penetrate deeper into the skin. It stimulates collagen production, effectively treating both the texture of scars and any discoloration. This treatment is particularly effective for deeper pimple marks and scarring.

5. Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion

• These exfoliating techniques mechanically remove the top layers of skin, which can help reduce the appearance of pimple marks and improve skin texture.

6. Topical treatments

• Retinoids: Prescription retinoids (like tretinoin) help promote cell turnover, which can fade dark spots and smooth out skin texture over time.
• Vitamin C: Serums with vitamin C can help lighten hyperpigmentation and brighten the skin.
• Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs): These exfoliating acids, such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid, help remove dead skin cells, improve skin texture, and fade marks.
• Hydroquinone: This skin-lightening agent can reduce hyperpigmentation, but it should be used under the guidance of a dermatologist.

7. Sunscreen

• Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, as UV exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation. Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen helps prevent pimple marks from darkening and promotes faster fading.

8. Professional consultation

• Consulting with a dermatologist is essential, especially for severe or persistent pimple marks. They can recommend the most effective treatment plan tailored to your skin type and concerns.

A combination of these treatments often yields the best results. Patience is key, as fading pimple marks can take time, especially with non-invasive treatments.

Are my pimple scars permanent?

How to fade acne scars naturally?

Each of these treatments offers a natural approach to improving acne scars. These treatments can be effective for mild acne scars. Advance treatments are necessary for sever cases. Consulting experts such as our team at SKIN111 can provide personalized advice and ensure you’re using safe and effective treatments.

• Natural exfoliants: Home-made exfoliants made from citrus fruits, honey, and yogurts which can gently peel off the skin can reduce appearance of post-acne marks.
• Sun shield: Protecting the skin from UV rays helps prevent further discoloration and allows scars to heal more effectively.
• Aloe vera: Aloe’s natural properties can help soothe and promote healing. It can be taken fresh from the yard or commercially prepared aloe products.
• Coconut bliss: Apply a small amount of virgin coconut oil to the scars at bedtime. Its rich moisturizing and healing properties can help the skin recover.

Are there any complications or side effects of treatments for pimple scars?

There are several treatment options to improve acne scars and pimples. Each modality has corresponding side effects and possible complications. However, most of the treatments such as laser, micro needling, injections, and peels shares common initial skin reaction after treatment. These include swelling, redness, mild skin irritation, and bruising.  These reactions are very temporary which will start to subside within the day.

How can I reduce my risk of acne scars?

Preventing acne scars involves a combination of proper acne treatment and good skin care regimen. Here are some recommendations to reduce the risk of acne scars:

• Treat active acne effectively: Proper pimple treatment reduces inflammation and skin damage. Avoid self-medication and immediately consult the doctor for proper management.
• Hands-off approach: Physical manipulation can worsen acne break out. Avoid pricking, popping, and squeezing to minimize contamination and further damage. 
• Healthy lifestyle: Getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising can prevent acne and improve skin health. 
• Healthy skin regimen: Good skin care treatment improved skin integrity and natural barrier from acne-causing bacteria. Incorporate sunscreen to prevent pigmentation or inflamed acne.

Conclusion

Acne scars can manifest in different types which can be influenced by several factors. Proper management of acne and good skin care practices are the key regimen to prevent acne scarring. Acne scars are remnants caused by poor skin healing and inflammation which can be permanent. Meanwhile, there are treatment modalities that can help improve the skin texture and reduce scar visibility.