Tuesday, November 13, 2007

How To Treat Acne Scars

Due to a collection of genetic, hormonal and environmental factors, pimples develop because of abnormalities of the pores lining cells that result in a clogging of the pores. These clogged pores provide a dark, oil rich environment that allows the acne bacteria that causes acne to flourish. Unchecked this process can lead to flat red or dark marks where spots used to be. Called macules they are the last sign of the inflammation in the skin and can last for up to one year.

The acne scars can be divided into two basic categories: physical scars and pigmented scars. The physical acne scars tend to cause an indentation in the skins’ surface. The pigmented scars often leave behind inflamed red marks.

Fortunately there are skin treatments that can help acne scars look better and smoother. The most commonly used forms of scar treatments are:

Dermabrasion The dermabrasion is appropriate procedure for those with superficial scarring on the cheeks, chin and forehead. With dermabrasion a high-speed mini-sander is used to remove the top layer of the scarred skin. The new skin grows back without as much scarring.
The bad thing is that the dermabrasion poses the risk of your skin healing with light or dark spots.

Chemical peels With chemical peel an acid is used to peel off the top layer of the skin. The new skin heals without scars. Unfortunately it often leaves a local swelling, redness and sun sensitivity. The peel unblocks the pores, opens the blackheads and whiteheads and stimulates the formation of new skin cells.


Laser resurfacing The laser resurfacing is less damaging to the skin then dermabrasion , but still lead to post-inflammatory pigmentary changes.

Acne surgery The acne surgery consist of using a comedone extract which remove the contents if blackheads and whiteheads. The procedure also includes draining pustules and cysts through a small incision.

Recommended Products Treating Acne Scars:

Neutrogena On The Spot Treatment Vanishing Formula ($6) – contains benzoyl peroxide, clears up blemishes, provides maximum strength effectiveness in fighting acne, while being gently to the skin.


Neutrogena Advanced Solution Acne Mark Fading Peel with CelluZyme ($16) – reduces the appearance of post-acne marks, for clear, even-toned skin use 1/ 3 times weekly.


Clean&Clear Persa Gel 10, Maximum Strength ($5) – works immediately releasing deep into the pores where pimples begin.


Acnomel Adult Acne Medication ($10) – effective treatment of adult acne and blemishes. Doesn’t contain benzoyl peroxide, helps prevent new acne pimples from forming.



Proactive Solution ($40) – contains Renewing Cleanser, Revitalizing Toner, Repairing Lotion, helps skin heal blemishes fast, balance skin tone, helps prevent future blemishes.