Breakouts happen often, and depending on how long they last and the sensitivity of the skin, they often leave a darker spot and some redness that lasts for a long time. A common misconception is that this long-lasting mark is considered an “acne scar,” while in reality that is not always the case.
What are acne marks and how to treat them
Acne marks are changes in skin color that remain after inflammation subsides. The affected area is generally flat, without a lasting depression or raised surface.
The two most common changes that align with acne marks are:
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Brown, dark brown, or grayish discoloration caused by excess melanin following inflammation. It is more noticeable in darker skin tones.
- Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE): Lingering pink or red marks associated with changes in small blood vessels during healing. These marks are often more noticeable in lighter skin.
Acne marks often improve with time, although fading may take months or longer.
Starting with controlling breakouts and adequate sun protection is the best way to prevent acne marks from leaving skin discolored.
For dark marks, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher seems to be the most recommended. A great alternative is a tinted sunscreen containing iron oxide. It can help protect against visible light, which often contributes to hyperpigmentation.
Topical creams with ingredients such as azelaic acid or a retinoid may help fade these spots more quickly. The natural urge to exfoliate to even the skin tone does not always work, as it can trigger even more irritation and make the discoloration even more prominent.
According to the AAD, a spot a few shades darker than your natural skin color may take six to 12 months to fade once its underlying cause is resolved.
What makes an acne scar different?
True acne scars cause structural changes in the skin. Inflammation often produces damaged tissue, and the healing process may leave too little tissue in some areas or cause excess collagen in others.
Depressed scars, also called atrophic scars, are often characterized by the following:
- Ice-pick scars: Small, narrow, deep indentations.
- Boxcar scars: Broader depressions with clearly defined edges.
- Rolling scars: Shallow depressions with sloping edges that create an uneven or wavy appearance.
Raised scars develop as a result of excess scar tissue. Hypertrophic scars stay within the original injury’s boundaries, while keloids extend beyond them. These texture changes are a clear difference between what is considered acne marks, characterized simply by skin discoloration.
Treating underlying causes of acne will always be the best prevention of future scars.
Many of our clients arrive long after their acne has been resolved. The scars left afterward are something we expertly treat, and the procedures depend on the type, depth, and location of the scars, along with your skin tone and medical history. A single procedure may not address every scar type in the same way.
Available options often include laser resurfacing, microneedling, chemical peels, fillers, or targeted scar procedures. Laser treatments at Lasting SkinSolutions for acne scars focus laser energy towards the top layers of your skin, to break up the scar tissue with a Profractional type fractionated laser. While this treatment doesn’t completely remove acne scars, it can reduce their appearance and also improve the overall appearance of the skin. Light-based treatments such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) can reduce the redness associated with acne scarring as well.
Why treating active acne is the key
Addressing existing marks and scars is only part of the plan. Effective acne treatment is the key to preventing additional damage and continued skin irritation.
Scar procedures typically begin after active acne is under control. Tell your provider about current and recent acne medications, including isotretinoin, because your treatment history can affect procedural planning.
You may have discoloration, textural scarring, or a combination of both. Lasting SkinSolutions offers consultations and skin-smoothing treatments for concerns including acne scarring and uneven texture. A personalized evaluation can help you understand which available options fit your skin, goals, and recovery schedule. Schedule a consultation to discuss your next steps.
