How to treat acne scars on the face
Dec 20, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
1. Wait for natural resolution. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) results from inflammation, and the skin’s stratum corneum renews itself approximately every 28 days; thus, PIH typically fades naturally over 6–8 months.
2. Apply topical agents or products with pigment-lightening properties, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), arbutin, or niacinamide.
3. Take oral agents with skin-brightening effects, such as vitamin C, glutathione, or tranexamic acid.
If you have post-acne marks (also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) on your face, appropriate measures should be taken to address them. These marks are residual discolorations that remain after acne lesions have healed. If the marks are mild, enhancing your skincare routine—such as regularly applying nourishing or brightening masks—can significantly improve their appearance. However, for more severe cases, consulting a dermatologist is advisable. Below, we address the question: “How can facial post-acne marks be effectively removed?”
How to Remove Facial Post-Acne Marks
1. Allow natural fading. Post-acne marks result from pigment deposition following inflammation. Since the epidermis renews itself approximately every 28 days, most marks gradually fade over 6–8 months through natural skin turnover.
2. Apply topical agents with pigment-lightening properties, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), arbutin, or niacinamide—all of which possess skin-brightening effects and can help diminish post-acne marks.
3. Consider oral supplements with skin-brightening benefits, including vitamin C, glutathione, or tranexamic acid.
4. Increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables—especially those rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, tangerines, and kiwifruit.
5. Undergo professional light- or laser-based treatments, such as chemical peels (e.g., glycolic acid peels) or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy.
6. Practice strict sun protection throughout treatment, as UV exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation.
Additional Information: Key Considerations When Treating Post-Acne Marks
1. Prevent pore clogging. Avoid heavy, oil-based cosmetics and thick foundations, as these can further obstruct already compromised pores. If active acne is present, wearing makeup is strongly discouraged—ideally, avoid it altogether, since cosmetics may exacerbate breakouts.
2. Maintain skin cleanliness while avoiding excessive irritation. Overexposure to sunlight stimulates sebaceous and sweat gland activity, potentially leading to pore blockage and increased inflammation.
3. Prioritize adequate sleep—especially avoiding late-night hours. The skin’s peak metabolic and repair activity occurs between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m.; thus, maintaining a regular sleep schedule supports healthy skin renewal and helps prevent new acne formation.
The above outlines effective strategies for removing facial post-acne marks. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
