Acne Counter Over Scar Treatment

Recently published an article on the latest in acne scar treatments. What are the newest developments in treating acne scars, and what should dermatologists keep in mind when treating patients with skin of color?

For an expert opinion on the current and future landscape of acne scar treatments, I contacted dermatologist DiAnne Davis, MD, FAAD, a cosmetic dermatologist in Dallas.

Some of the latest developments in treating acne scars use several different treatment approaches at the same time for a synergistic effect to improve the acne scars. Whether it be subcision plus fractional non-ablative or fractional ablative laser therapy, subcision combined with biostimulating injectables, or radiofrequency and microneedling with PRP, there are many different ways to approach acne scars. By combining several treatments into one you can definitely make a powerful impact on improving the acne scars.

Types Of Acne Scars—and The Best Treatments For Each

All patients with skin of color are not the same, especially when it comes to laser therapy. I have definitely learned that over the last couple of years of practicing since I finished my cosmetic fellowship. If you have any concerns of how the patient will respond, I always recommend doing test spots either behind their ears or in another hidden location to see how their skin will respond.

In terms of the acne scars that I see skin of color patients concerned with, the most common would be post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Safer options will always include chemical peels, microneedling, and/or radiofrequency microneedling to address concerns regarding pigmentary alterations. 

Atrophic scars can definitely be more challenging to treat. Depending on the size of the atrophic scars I may recommend a small 1.5 mm or 2 mm punch excision followed by one small stitch to approximate the skin edges in order to remove the scar entirely.

Acne, Scar Treatment

I also love combining Pico- and/or Nano-second fractional non-ablative laser technology to really help with the remodeling of the dermis to help improve the atrophic scars.

If I see a patient that is coming to me for acne and I see acne scars I want to first address their acne but also discuss ways that we can start treating their acne scars as soon as possible. As a dermatologist, I think we always have to keep in mind the effects that acne scars can have on our patients’ quality of life and we should not turn a blind eye to what the patient may not be saying during our medical encounters.

Sometimes my treatments may come in the form of an oral medication such as isotretinoin. Other times I may recommend topical prescriptions while also combining microneedling treatments.

How Do You Treat Acne Scars?

Patient Buzz: Stopping Filler | The Expert Weighs InA Mindfulness-Based Smartphone Application Intervention to Improve the Quality of Life of Patients w...Best Practices & What to Avoid During Culturally Sensitive Derm Consults

Next Steps in Derm is a virtual mentor for dermatology residents and young physicians seeking dermatology updates,  advice on practice management and building their careers. Get advice from experienced physicians in dermatology. Next Steps in Derm is part of the SanovaWorks network.

In this series, we take a deep dive into the literature and guidelines to give you a quick reference on the use of new or complex therapies.  This series will become your go-to for information about dosing, potential interactions and laboratory monitoring, just to name a few.

Real' Acne Scarring: How To Get Rid Of Your Acne Scars

Get your free copy of the Next Steps in Derm Guide, the expert’s guide to post-residency career choices and practice management advice from experienced physicians.Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — By Giselle Castro and Breanna Mona — Updated on September 29, 2022

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

Best Scar Removal Cream For Stretch Marks, Acne Scarring And Keloid Scars

Acne can affect teens and adults alike, thanks to a variety of causes: hormonal changes, medications, diet, and genetics, to name a few.

While some scars fade over time, others may be permanent. However, with some dermatologist-recommended products that help treat acne scars, you can lessen the damage caused by breakouts.

There are several types of acne scars. According to Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist in New York City, acne scarring usually presents as:

How To Get Rid Of Boxcar Scars: Treatments For Acne Scars

“Severe acne has a greater chance of leaving permanent scars while it heals, ” Garshick adds. She also notes that topical treatments can only take you so far. Chemical peels and microneedling are also beneficial in diminishing acne scarring.

Joshua Zeichner, MD, the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Department of Dermatology, adds, “Unfortunately, topical treatments have limited use in treating acne scars, and physical modalities, like lasers, are often needed.”

Zeichner says depressed scars usually benefit more from lasers, thick and raised scars are treated with cortisone injections, and ice pick scars are usually removed with a minor surgical procedure.

Causes & How To Get Rid Of Acne Scars: A Video By Dr. Rohit Batra

The hyperpigmentation that remains isn’t permanent, but it can be uncomfortable for some people. It can also present differently, depending on your complexion.

“[Hyperpigmentation] is more common in patients with darker skin tones, ” he adds. “Whereas, [lighter-skinned] patients are often left with pink or red spots in areas where there used to be pimples. This post-inflammatory erythema heals on its own over several weeks.”

Although most superficial breakouts heal on their own without leaving a significant mark, there are others that leave a more noticeable scar behind.

Best Acne Scar Treatments Of 2023 According To Dermatologists

“This is why it’s advised to avoid picking pimples. It can lead to more injury to the skin, which can lead to a greater chance of a scar, ” Garshick says.

Keep in mind that some scarring can be treated at home, but it’s best to talk with a dermatologist about severe scarring. Aside from over-the-counter (OTC) products that you can pick up at major retailers, there are other ways to help fade acne scars. It’s a good idea to talk with your dermatologist about these alternatives during your appointment.

Skin care products can range as low as $10 or as high as $100. Our experts suggested both cost-effective and splurge-worthy products.

Acne Scar Treatments That Actually Work

Differin gel is an OTC retinoid treatment that has been on the market for some time. The active ingredient is adapalene, which helps decrease swelling and inflammation, prevent breakouts, and treat scarring.

According to Garshick, “it can help discoloration and textural changes that go along with acne scars by evening out the skin tone and boosting collagen production.”

She adds that it’s safe to use once daily, but it’s best to start just a few times per week and increase the frequency as tolerated.

Best Products For Acne Scars, According To Dermatologists 2022

Reviewers say the product gently helped clear up all kinds of acne (including cystic acne), and they saw improvement with their skin in about 12 weeks.

Toning is a key part of your skin care routine that’s done after cleansing. While there are many types of toners, Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade toner is a fan favorite for fighting acne.

Garshick says the glycolic acid in the toner also helps get rid of dead skin cells, and the Glyctone Enhance Brightening Complex combined with azelaic acid aids in brightening the skin.

The Best Ways To Get Rid Of Acne Scars

“Because both azelaic acid and glycolic acid may be considered pregnancy-safe, this may be an option for pregnant or nursing moms dealing with acne and hyperpigmentation, ” Garshick suggests.

Reviewers on the Neutrogena website say this toner is rapid-acting. Some saw results overnight, while others say they saw improvement in a matter of weeks.

This product falls on the pricier side of this list (a pack runs you about $100), but you only need to use them one or two times per week.

Best Products For Acne Scars

The pads contain hydroxy acids, including lactic acid, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid, in combination with AlphaRet, a retinoid that helps boost collagen.

“It’s easy to use and a great option for those looking for an exfoliant to help brighten the skin and improve the skin tone and texture associated with acne scars, ” Garshick says.

Reviewers enjoy how well this product exfoliates their skin in between dermatologist visits and how convenient it is to carry, even while traveling.

Acne Scar Treatment Adelaide

This cleanser exfoliates and cleanses all at once. The ingredients include a mix of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), including lactic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, and malic acid. These help to improve skin tone and texture and prevent breakouts.

“This combination makes the cleanser a great option for those with acne scars and blemishes, as it helps to improve skin tone, ” Garshick explains.

Reviews show that, even as an exfoliant, it’s still gentle enough to use on a regular basis. Those with sensitive skin should be mindful of temporary redness after exfoliating.

Best Products For Acne Scars 2023

Those with scarring from body acne will appreciate the results from this budget-friendly cleanser. It’s made with sensitive skin in mind, gently exfoliating the skin and leaving it smooth and moisturized.

“This gentle exfoliating wash helps to get rid of dead skin cells, improving the appearance of dark spots, blemishes, and acne scars, ” she says.

This CeraVe retinol serum is great for all types of acne scars, especially if you’re new to retinol. Retinol helps resurface skin texture, while licorice root extract brightens the skin and improves its overall appearance.

What You Should Know About Acne

Customer reviews show that this retinol leaves their skin smooth, and