Acne Marks Vs Acne Scars - Difference, Types & Treatments

Acne is one of the most common conditions of facial skin. It is a temporary skin condition, but it can leave stubborn marks and scars. This can impact your overall skin appearance. Even after they are gone, there can be dark spots, red patches, etc. It is necessary to understand the difference between Acne Marks and Acne Scars. What are they, and how do you treat them? In this article, you will learn the breakdown of each one, how they are caused, and how to prevent them in the long run. With the right skin care routine, you can maintain or regain smooth, clear skin with no stress.

What are the acne scars?

Acne scars are permanent, they appear as raised areas on the skin. They are developed after a severe case of acne. When it heals, it seems like a permanent indentation on the skin. They are the result of damage to skin layers, commonly caused by inflamed acne, such as cysts or nodules. Sometimes, when your body is trying to repair the damage, it may produce too much or too little collagen. This can lead to scarring; here are some of the different types of acne scars. 

• Atrophic Scars: The most common ones include Ice Pick Scars, Boxcar Scars, and Rolling Scars.

• Hypertrophic or keloid scars: They are raised scars that occur when the body produces too much collagen during healing.

Ice Pick Scars are like deep and narrow pits on the face. Boxcars are rectangular with sharp edges, and Rolling Cars are shallow and wide. Acne scars alter skin texture and require medical treatment. If it's done at the right time, there can be a significant improvement in skin condition.  A proper skin care kit for women is good enough for best skin care, but do maintain consistency in using the same.

What are Acne Marks?

Acne Marks are simple flat discolorations of the skin that appear when a pimple is healed. They are not caused by tissue damage, they are mostly inflammation that is triggered due to excess melanin. It is the pigment that is responsible for a skin condition. Here, to some extent, natural skin care can prevent the same, but once acne has left marks and scars, you need advanced products.

Acne Marks are usually red or pink spots, they are more visible on a light skin tone. On darker skin, they appear as brown or dark spots. Acne Marks can fade over time, some of them can take a few weeks to a month to disappear. They may go faster if you maintain a regular skincare routine and protect your skin from sunlight. Most of these marks do not require any kind of medical treatment. With the help of good skin products, you can gently manage regular marks.

Acne marks vs. Acne scars

Acne Marks and Acne Scars can occur due to common reasons, but they are fundamentally different in terms of their appearance, nature, and treatment.

Knowing the difference between marks and scars is crucial for treatment. It will help you to pick the best skin product or meet a dermatologist if needed.

Prevention Tips for Acne Marks and Acne Scars

Here are some useful tips that can help you prevent marks and scars in the long run. Once there is acne on your skin, if you manage it from the base, it will not leave permanent damage. 

1. Don’t pop pimples: This is the golden rule, do not pick or squeeze pimples. This increases the chances of inflammation and also increases the risk of scarring and pigmentation.

2. Sunscreen: Use sunscreen every day, as direct UV exposure can darken acne marks. It can also slow down the acne healing process. Get a non-comedogenic sunscreen, this will not clog your pores and promote active healing. Ample skin products for men come with additional benefits of dealing with acne.

3. Hydration: Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer, which will act as a skin barrier and prevent it from drying. It will also prevent irritation and promote healing by reducing the marks.

4. Early Acne Treatment: Whenever you see acne, without wasting time, go for a treatment. You can visit a dermatologist for better suggestions. Or you can try OTC treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. This will prevent acne from breaking out and scarring your skin.

5. Cleansing: For effective treatment, wash your face twice a day with a non-irritating cleanser. This will help you to get rid of excess oil and residue without damaging the skin layer.

Effective Treatments for Acne Marks and Acne Scars

Post-acne marks and scars can be treated at home or by consulting with a Dermatologist. It relies on the type of issue you are dealing with. Let’s say if you have sensitive skin and acne is frequent, then visiting a Dermatologist is recommended. You will need more specialized creams, which are not available without a prescription. Others can use the following combination of topical and professional treatment.

Topical Treatments:

• Topical Retinoids can help in the treatment of marks and mild scars. It can help in fading them over time. You will need a dermatologist's guidance here to avoid any kind of irritation on sensitive skin. Retinoids promote cell regeneration and can cure mild scars. 

• Microneedling is a procedure where tiny needles are used to stimulate collagen production. This improves markings left by atrophic acne, like boxcar or rolling scars. You may have multiple sessions depending on the marks on the face.

• Chemical Peels are easily available and are effective in targeting acne issues. Glycolic or salicylic acid peels exfoliate the skin, and they also reduce hyperpigmentation and work on shallow scars. If marks are darker, then look for professional peels; they are more effective.

• Laser Therapy works on both marks and scars. It is used to resurface skin and for collagen remodeling. Professional advice is required here.

• OTC Brightening Agents have ingredients like Vitamin C, niacinamide, or alpha hydroxy acid. This helps in fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation when used regularly. 

Other than this solution, there are Dermal Fillers which are used for filling deep scars. Hyaluronic acid is the kind of filler used, which can temporarily life shallow areas, but it won't last long. Max 6 to 18 months, depending on the filler. It is recommended that you always consult with a dermatologist before such treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can you 100% remove acne scars?

A. Well, no treatment guarantees 100% removal of acne scars. The results rely on your scar type and the skin condition. If your skin is responding well to the treatment, then you may get rid of max scars or marks. For better results, advanced treatments like microneedling, laser therapy, or even surgery are required.

Q. What kind of acne scars can be removed?

A. Atrophic scars, such as boxcar, rolling, or icepick scars, can be effectively removed using advanced treatments. Laser resurfacing, microneedling, or chemical peels are some of the treatments. But for raised scars, higher treatment may be required. It is recommended to consult with a dermatologist for the same.

Q. Does vitamin C help with acne scars?

A. Yes, Vitamin C can work on acne scars. With regular usage, you can get rid of faded acne marks. But when it comes to textured scars, it is less effective. Vitamin C can improve your skin tone and brighten it. Many female skin care products have Vitamin C in them, along with additional active ingredients.

Q. What is best for acne treatment at home?

A. Use ladies' skin care products that have benzoyl peroxide, which is used to get rid of bacteria. Salicylic acid can unclog pores, and retinoids can promote cell growth. You will have to follow a consistent routine to manage acne scars and marks at home. Like gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sunscreen. These three things are key for better skin. Whale, there are some natural skincare products also that can help you in the long run.