Acne is a common skin condition caused by clogged hair follicles beneath the skin. Sebum (oil that keeps skin from drying out) and dead skin cells clog pores, resulting in outbreaks of lesions known as pimples or zits.
Causes
Most acne scars are the result of an inflamed lesion, such as a papule, pustule, or cyst. Blemishes become inflamed when the follicle, or pore, becomes clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. The pore swells and tears the follicle wall. The lesion is usually minor and heals quickly if the rupture occurs near the skin’s surface. When there is a deep break in the follicle wall, more serious lesions develop. Infected material leaks into the dermis, destroying healthy skin tissue. The skin forms new collagen fibers to repair the dermal damage. Collagen is a fibrous protein that provides strength and flexibility to the skin. Unfortunately, the completed “repair job” is never as smooth and flawless as it was before the injury. Inflammation is the single most important indicator of scar development. Scarring is more likely to occur when there is inflammation on the skin. Scarring is also increased by deep breakouts that take a long time to heal. Acne is usually a temporary problem, but acne scars can be permanent. Acne scars are pitted or raised areas of skin. They are the direct result of acne-related skin damage. When you get acne, your body tries to heal it by producing and forming collagen fibers. Pitted scars can form if your body does not produce enough collagen. Raised scars can occur if your body produces too much collagen.
As dermatologists, we classify acne scars into four types:
Shallow scars with soft, smooth edges are known as rolling scars. These scars make the skin appear wave-like.
● Boxcar scars: Boxcar scars are shallow scars with defined edges. They typically manifest as small imprints on the skin.
● Icepick scars: Ice Pick scars are deep, narrow scars that resemble an open skin pore. These are typically the most difficult acne scars to treat.
● Hypertrophic or keloid scars: These are raised scars that commonly appear as red spots. These scars may itch or cause irritation to the skin.
Prevention
Although scarring cannot be completely avoided, these steps can reduce your chances of
developing acne scars.
Once you’ve identified the types of acne scars you have, you can take steps to prevent the formation of new scars. Here are four simple ways to avoid acne scars:
Treat Acne as soon as it appears
The best thing you can do is control your acne as soon as possible. Begin treating it right away, and see your healthcare provider right away if over-the-counter acne treatments aren’t working. Quick treatment keeps breakouts to a minimum and keeps acne from progressing to a more severe form. Preventing pimples will help you avoid scarring.
Don’t squeeze or pop pimples
While it may be tempting to pick at or pop a pimple, keep in mind that this usually causes more harm than good. When you pop a pimple, you release all of the pimple’s oil, bacteria, and debris onto your skin, leaving an open wound. This can not only cause more acne, but it can also cause scarring by interfering with your skin’s natural healing process.
Remind yourself that popping pimples can prolong healing time and increase the likelihood of a permanent scar. Allow the blemish to heal naturally. If you’ve already picked at a blemish, take steps to heal it and protect your skin.
Covering stubborn pimples with hydrocolloid bandages is one way to eliminate the desire to pop or pick at your acne. These bandages aid in the healing of your skin and keep you from causing any damage that could result in scarring.
Treat you breakouts
To avoid scarring in the first place, it’s critical to stay ahead of future breakouts and get your acne under control. Products containing salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can treat existing acne while also preventing future breakouts. Changing your pillowcase more frequently, staying hydrated, and getting more sleep also help prevent acne from forming in the first place. When should you see a dermatologist?
If products and lifestyle changes aren’t clearing up your acne, it’s time to seek professional help at Rockyview Medical Aesthetic, we can assess the condition of your skin and recommend the best treatment for you. Make an appointment today to begin your path to clear skin.
Reduce Inflammation
Large, inflamed acne blemishes are far more likely than non-inflamed breakouts and blackheads to leave scars. Your goal should always be to reduce inflammation and avoid doing anything that will aggravate your skin further. Scrubbing too hard and using harsh skincare products should be avoided.
Stay Moisturized
Keeping your skin moisturized can help you look plump and healthy. Moisturizing not only aids in the healing process of your skin but also makes existing acne scars less visible by unifying the tone and texture of your skin. We recommend limiting hot showers and applying moisturizer twice a day to avoid drying out your skin.
Are you worrying because of your problematic skin?
There are many treatments that help you to bring your beauty back to you. Scar treatments,
fortunately, exist to help reduce the appearance of scarring. Feel free to consult with Us. We can
explain your treatment options to you. Visit our website for more information.