Acne is a painful and embarrassing skin condition, and the scars it leaves can serve as unwanted “reminders” of that suffering. Fortunately, a dermatologist can help you remove any pits or bumps from acne scars. Residual hyperpigmentation may disappear after a few months, but you can speed up the process. Realistically, acne scars can't be removed instantly, but with treatments, products, treatments, and skin care tips, you can see a significant difference over time. You just need to find the right method for your skin type.
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Method 1 of 4: Removing Pimples or Pimples
Step 1. Identify the type of acne scars that exist
If the pimple leaves a hole or hollow in the skin, you will need the help of a dermatologist to close it. Different types of acne scars, different forms of proper treatment to follow.
- Rolling scar is a term for indented acne scars. These scars make the surface of the skin appear bumpy.
- Boxcar scars refer to large acne scars with sharp, defined edges.
- Icepick scars are small, but narrow and deep acne scars.
Step 2. Follow the laser treatment
Acne scars that are mild or moderate can be smoothed using a laser. Ablative laser treatment works to vaporize acne scars so that new skin tissue can form on the scars. Meanwhile, nonablative laser treatments are used to encourage collagen production which can improve the condition of the skin around the scars.
- This treatment is more suitable for rolling scars or boxcar scars that are not deep.
- Make an appointment with a dermatologist to discuss treatment options, including the risks and possible side effects.
- Choose ablative laser treatment if you have deep scars. If the scar is still on the surface of the skin, choose a nonablative laser treatment.
Step 3. Ask a dermatologist about punch excision treatment
If you have an icepick or boxcar pimple on your face, a dermatologist can remove or close the mark with a punch or puncture technique. The dermatologist will cut or cut the area around the pimple and allow it to heal as new, smooth skin.
Step 4. Get a filler or filler injection
Acne scars can leave permanent indentations in the skin that may not be able to be removed. Injections of filler or filler can fill the hollows or holes to even out the surface of the skin. However, you will need to have this treatment again every four or six months.
Step 5. Cover the protruding acne scars with silicone
Silicone sheet or gel products help reduce the appearance of prominent acne scars. Use silicone on acne scars every night. Wash your face in the morning with a mild cleansing soap. After a few weeks, the surface of the skin will appear smoother and more even.
Method 2 of 4: Treating Hyperpigmentation
Step 1. Use a cortisone cream
This cream relieves inflammation of the skin and promotes the healing process. Talk to your doctor about the right type of cortisone cream for your condition.
Cortisone cream can be obtained over the counter or over the counter. Use the cream only on problem areas and make sure you read the directions for use on the label
Step 2. Use an over-the-counter lightening cream for light-colored skin
Products containing ingredients such as kojic acid, arbutin, liquorice extract, mulberry extract, and vitamin C can lighten skin naturally and reduce hyperpigmentation caused by acne scars, without causing skin damage or irritation.
- Avoid products containing hydroquinone as this popular skin lightening agent can cause skin irritation and has been labeled a carcinogen.
- If you have dark skin, don't use a lightening cream. This product can remove melanin from the skin, thus worsening the condition of blemishes on the skin.
Step 3. Use products that contain glycolic acid or salicylic acid
Glycolic and salicylic acids are contained in various skin care products, such as creams, scrubs, and ointments because they can effectively exfoliate the skin layer and lift the hyperpigmented skin layer to the surface so that it can disappear completely.
Step 4. Use skin care products that contain retinoids
This substance is a derivative of vitamin A contained in various skin care products and is useful in removing wrinkles on the face, overcoming skin discoloration, and eradicating acne. Retinoids promote collagen production and speed up the cell turnover process, making them suitable for treating acne scars. Retinoid creams are indeed sold at a higher price, but are highly recommended by dermatologists because they can provide fast and effective results.
- You can buy some over-the-counter retinoid creams (eg products manufactured by major skin care brands). However, stronger creams need to be obtained by prescription from a dermatologist.
- The ingredients in retinoid creams are sensitive to UVA light, so they should only be used at night to protect the skin.
Step 5. Consider microdermabrasion and glycol chemical decay treatments
Neither type of treatment can fade acne scars overnight because they are quite harsh. In addition, the skin also takes time to recover. However, it's worth considering if creams and lotions don't work, or you prefer to even out your skin tone.
- The chemical decay process involves applying a concentrated acid solution to the skin. This solution will "burn" the top layer of skin so that the new layer of skin underneath can be seen. Make an appointment with a dermatologist for this procedure.
- Microdermabrasion gives similar results, but in this treatment, the skin layer is removed using a rotating wire brush.
Method 3 of 4: Using Natural Remedies
Step 1. Use lemon juice
Lemon juice contains skin whitening agents and can lighten acne scars effectively. Mix lemon juice with water in equal proportions, then apply the mixture directly on the pimple marks. Avoid using the mixture on the skin around the acne scars. Wash your face after 15-25 minutes, or leave the mixture on as a night mask.
- Don't forget to use a moisturizer after washing your face because the citric acid in lemon juice can make your skin very dry.
- Lime juice also contains citric acid and can be used in place of lemon juice if needed.
- Since lemon juice contains a pH of 2 and the skin's pH is in the 4-7 range, follow this method with caution. If the mixture is left on for too long or is not diluted, the skin may burn. Citric acid also contains Bergapten which can bind to DNA and make ultraviolet radiation more easily damage the skin. Therefore, be wary of sun exposure after you apply the lemon mixture on the skin. Rinse your face thoroughly before going outside and apply sunscreen.
Step 2. Exfoliate with baking soda
Baking soda can be used to remove dead skin cells and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of water to form a runny paste. Apply the paste all over your face and rub it on your skin in circular motions. Concentrate on the problem area for two minutes. After that, rinse your face with warm water and pat dry by patting a towel on your skin.
- You can also use baking soda paste as a spot treatment product that is used directly on problem areas. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before you rinse your face.
- Some skin health experts do not recommend this method. Baking soda has a pH of 7 which is too alkaline for the skin. Optimal skin pH is in the range of 4.7 to 5.5 and is less suitable for p. acne, the bacteria that causes acne. By increasing the pH to a more alkaline level, bacteria can survive longer and cause further inflammation and infection. Therefore, use this method wisely and discontinue the treatment if it is not effective.
Step 3. Use honey to get rid of acne scars
Honey is a natural ingredient that can get rid of acne and reduce redness of the skin. Honey contains antibacterial properties and can smooth the skin and reduce inflammation. As the most effective options, choose raw honey or manuka honey. You can write it directly on the problem area using an ear plug.
- Honey is a natural ingredient that is suitable for people who have sensitive skin because it will not cause irritation. In addition, unlike other treatments, honey can actually moisturize the skin, and not cause dry skin.
- If pearl powder is available (you can buy it from a health product store or online), you can mix it with honey for a more effective treatment mix. Pearl powder can reduce inflammation and reduce acne scars.
Step 4. Experiment with aloe vera gel
Aloe vera sap is a natural substance that can be used to relieve or treat various skin disorders, from skin stings, burns, to acne scars. Aloe vera can also rejuvenate and moisturize the skin, and help reduce acne scars. You can buy aloe vera gel from a pharmacy, but for best results, buy an aloe plant and use the sap from the chopped leaves. This sap can be applied directly to acne scars and does not need to be rinsed.
For a more intense acne scar treatment, mix a drop or two of tea tree oil in aloe vera gel before applying. This oil helps cleanse the skin
Step 5. Use ice cubes
Ice is a simple home remedy that can lighten acne scars by reducing skin inflammation and reducing redness. Wrap an ice cube in a cloth or paper towel, then apply it to the problem area for a minute or two until the skin begins to feel numb. Sometimes, the use of ice causes the skin to sting or burn.
Instead of plain water, you can freeze brewed green tea in ice molds and use it on acne scars. Green tea contains anti-inflammatory properties, while ice can provide a refreshing effect
Step 6. Make a sandalwood paste
Sandalwood is well-known as a skin restorer and is easy to prepare at home. Mix one tablespoon of sandalwood powder with a few drops of rose water or milk to form a paste. Apply the paste on the problem areas and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing your face. Repeat the treatment every day until the acne scars disappear.
Alternatively, mix sandalwood powder with honey and use it as a spot treatment for any acne scars
Step 7. Take advantage of apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar helps maintain the skin's pH level, improves facial skin, and reduces the appearance of redness and acne scars. Dilute apple cider vinegar with water to reduce its concentration by half, then apply it to the problem area using a cotton swab. Repeat this treatment every day until the acne scars disappear.
Method 4 of 4: Skin Care
Step 1. Protect skin from sun exposure
Ultraviolet light stimulates pigment-producing skin cells, which can worsen the appearance of acne scars. If you plan to be out in the sun, protect your skin by applying sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), wearing a hat with a wide brim, and staying in the shade as much as possible.
Step 2. Use mild facial care products
As time goes on, people find it increasingly difficult to get rid of acne scars and discoloration of the skin to the point of using abrasive products and methods that actually irritate or worsen skin conditions. Try to pay attention and "listen" to your skin. If your skin shows a bad reaction to a certain product, stop using the product immediately. Stick to face washes, makeup removers, moisturizers, and light scrubs that can refresh and hydrate the skin, rather than causing inflammation.
- A big mistake that people usually make is using moisturizer when the skin is dry. Actually, moisturizer needs to be used while the skin is still WET/moist to ensure the product can get into the pores.
- Instead of your regular moisturizer, mix your face cream with aloe vera gel. Aloe vera is a natural humectant that absorbs moisture from the air and transfers it to the face. After use, your facial skin will look more moisturized and healthy.
- Do not use hot water when washing your face. Hot water can dry out your skin, so lower the temperature of the water when you want to wash your face.
- Avoid using rough washcloths, sponges, and loofahs on facial skin because the texture is too rough and can cause irritation to the skin.
Step 3. Exfoliate regularly
Exfoliating helps shed dead skin cells and reveal a new layer of skin that is still smooth. Since acne scars usually appear on the top layer of skin, exfoliating can speed up the process of removing scars. You can use a regular facial scrub, but make sure the product you use is designed for sensitive skin.
- Alternatively, you can exfoliate using a soft washcloth and warm water. Rub the washcloth over your face in a circular motion.
- Exfoliate at least once a week and most often once a day. If you have dry skin, exfoliate 3-4 times a week.
Step 4. Don't scratch the pimple and its scars
Although this is quite "tempting", the process of removing acne scars through the skin's natural recovery will be disrupted and in fact, the condition of the acne scars will get worse. Meanwhile, scratching or popping pimples will cause acne scars because bacteria from your hands move to your face and cause inflammation and infection. Therefore, as much as possible do not scratch the existing acne scars.
Step 5. Drink plenty of water and follow a balanced diet
Eating a healthy diet and keeping your body hydrated won't get rid of acne scars right away, but they can help your body work optimally and encourage skin recovery. Water functions to remove toxins from the body and make the skin look supple and firm. Therefore, try to drink 5-8 glasses of water every day. Vitamins such as vitamins A, C, and E also help nourish the skin and keep it moisturized.
- Vitamin A is found in vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, and carrots. Meanwhile, vitamins C and E are contained in oranges, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and avocados.
- Avoid oily, fatty, or starchy foods as much as possible because these types of foods can not provide benefits to the skin.
Tips
- Make sure you keep your body fluids. Drink enough water to keep your skin moisturized and healthy in the long run. In addition, this pattern of water consumption speeds up the skin healing process.
- The sooner you treat acne scars, the more effective the treatment will be.
- The most effective method for removing acne scars is patience. In the end, acne scars will fade after a few months as new collagen will fill in problem areas of skin.
- Make a homemade oat face mask. Take a spoonful of oats and moisten it with water. Squeeze and apply the milk on the face. After that, smooth the oat porridge on the face and let stand for 1 minute. Do not use the mask in the area around the eyes and mouth. Clean your face afterwards. This treatment does not provide instant results, but shows a positive impact for some people.
- You can apply turmeric powder on the problem area. Turmeric contains antibiotics and anti-inflammatory substances that can get rid of acne and scars on the face. Use water or lemon juice to mix with the powder. Rinse your face with cold water after applying the turmeric mask on your face and leave it on for 15 minutes. You can also use potato juice to lighten the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
- Use a mixture of lemon juice, flour, and milk.
- Apply coconut oil on acne scars, and apply olive oil on problem areas.
- You can also use cucumber and honey.
- Don't pop the pimple as dirt can spread throughout the skin pores and trigger more breakouts.
- Mix honey with baking soda, then apply it on the problem area using an ear plug.
- Use raw eggs. Eggs can clean pores quickly and effectively. Prepare an egg white and puree it until it becomes a paste, then apply it on the desired area and wait for 20 minutes. After rinsing the face, the existing pimples will shrink and do not appear reddish.
- Prepare a washcloth that has been moistened with hot water, then stick it on the scar. Add tea tree oil if necessary.
