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The side effects of acne? Scars… even if the acne goes away, scars leave marks. Affecting the face 95% of the time, acne scars are often difficult to manage. But today there are solutions both at home and in the clinic to get rid of these unsightly scars. Discover them here.
How are acne scars formed
In general, the more severe the acne lesions, the more they are accompanied by intense inflammatory reactions. This inflammatory response can trigger the activity of certain enzymes which degrade collagen fibers and elastin in the deeper layers of the skin, in particular. This is when the skin makes scar tissue to repair damaged tissue. However, the result is not optimal and the skin then presents hollow scars called “atrophic scars” or raised scars called “hypertrophic scars”.
At the same time, the inflammatory reactions promote the pigmentation of scars, particularly in dark skin.
Types of acne scars
Atrophic scars are the most common types of scars on the face. They form small depressions or “hollows” of varying size and depth. There are 3 sub-types.
“V” or “Icepick” scars: they measure 1 to 2 mm in diameter, are deep and are similar to a conical peak that pierces the skin.
“U” or “Boxcar” scars: These are up to 4mm in size with well-defined edges and are often similar to chickenpox scars.
“M” or “Rolling” scars: they measure more than 4 mm, are rounder with slightly pronounced edges.
Hypertrophic scars are raised scars. They are most common on the shoulders, back or chest. This type of scar is made up of excess “substandard” scar tissue which is why it is thicker than the surrounding tissue.
Topical ingredients
Lactic Acid
Lactic Acid belongs to the family of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) which are excellent for gentle exfoliation of the epidermis. A professional AHA chemical peel based on lactic acid will gently lighten scars and significantly improve skin texture and the appearance of scars.
Ideal for: all types of acne scars.
AHA Peel BioAcne
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a natural ingredient extracted from the bark of the weeping willow tree. It is considered one of the best acne treatments due to its ability to unclog pores, remove dead cells, but also control inflammation and reduce redness. Opt for a professional chemical peel with salicylic acid or choose your treatments based on organic salicylic acid to improve the appearance of acne scars day after day.
Ideal for: all types of acne scars.
Salicylic Acid Complex BioAcne
Birch Bark Extract
Birch bark extract provides the skin with their exceptional exfoliating and smoothing properties. It allows you to perform a micro-peel of the epidermis to refine the texture of the skin and visibly improve the appearance of scars over time.
Ideal for: all types of acne scars.
BioScience
BioOrganic
BioScience
Borage Seed Oil
Borage seed oil is excellent for promoting cell renewal and aiding healing. Rich in essential fatty acids, it not only reduces inflammation but also improves skin hydration to ensure smooth and soft skin.
Ideal for: all types of acne scars.
Mineral Filters
Acne scars can easily be pigmented; especially when you are exposed to the sun. Opt for mineral protection based on mineral filters that are better tolerated by sensitive skin to protect your skin and prevent pigmentation of your scars.
Ideal for: all types of acne scars.
BioOrganic
Red Algae and Vitamin C
This combination of ingredients is ideal for locally lightening pigmented scars, reducing inflammation and stimulating cell renewal.
Ideal for: all types of acne scars.
BioScience
BioScience
Technologies in Institutes
Spa treatments offer many solutions to reduce acne scars and amplify the effects of home care. In addition to professional chemical peels, here are the technologies that can help you regain smooth and even skin.
Microneedle fractionated radio frequency. This new technology is based on the use of micro-needles that penetrate the skin between 0.5mm and 2mm and radio frequency which tightens the tissues. Over the course of the sessions, the skin heals and produces collagen. After several weeks of treatment, the appearance of scars is visibly reduced.
Ideal: for atrophic scars and all phototypes
Microdermabrasion. This gentle mechanical exfoliation method works on the same principle as chemical peels. It will provide a deeper exfoliation of the epidermis to smooth the surface skin and improve its texture.
Ideal for: all types of scars and all phototypes.
IPL or Intense pulsed light. This technology uses pulsed light to specifically stimulate collagen, smooth and firm the skin. It will also help lighten pigmented scars.
Ideal: for atrophic scars and phototypes 1 to 3
More invasive medical solutions can visibly improve acne scars but should be done under the supervision of a physician such as:
- Fillers to improve atrophic “U” or “M” scars
- Corticosteroid-based injections to reduce hypertrophic scars
- Ablative or non-ablative laser resurfacing to smooth the skin and improve the appearance of all types of scars on fair skin.
Before performing any treatment, it is important to consult your skincare specialist in order to obtain the most suitable skincare program for your skin needs.
Really enjoy reading the blogs! There’s so much to the skin that even if you know your stuff, there’s always more. Please keep sharing your latest research.