5 Ways To Treat Acne Scars

If Your Skin Is Rough From Cystic Acne...

Solution: An at-home tool can improve texture

As dermatologist Dr Karyn Grossman explains, scars on the forehead and cheeks can make skin appear uneven. “The two major types of scars are rolling hill (undulations in the skin where the skin is depressed) and ice-pick scars (deep narrow scars).” At-home microdermabrasion tools like PMD Personal Microderm, £135, can help to remove the outer layer of the skin using light abrasion to smooth out any rough areas. If you’d rather leave it to the pros, book in for a Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion treatment (find your nearest salon here) or arrange a microdermabrasion consultation at sk:n Clinics nationwide.

If Your Skin Has Brown or Red Discolouration...

Solution: An acid-based serum can help

Acne can cause scarring and discolouration that may fade naturally, but sometimes a helping hand is needed. If the discolouration is red or brown, it’s not technically a scar, explains Dr Grossman, but rather prolonged inflammation in the area that may lead to scarring later on. Mild at-home treatments containing salicylic acid, like CosMedix’s Clarity Skin Serum, £35, help to speed up the removal of dead skin cells and diminish discolouration. If you struggle with irritation, try Skinceuticals’ cult C E Ferulic, £129, a potent blend of vitamin C and ferulic acid to brighten dull skin and lighten brown spots.

If Your Scars Are Difficult To Hide...

Solution: Mask them with full-coverage foundation

The inflammation and redness associated with acne can lead to dark spots that are difficult to get rid of. Some hard-to-cover spots, which are the lingering effects of acne, need the help of make-up to fully conceal them. Formulated with anti-inflammatory aspen bark and antibacterial tea tree oil, bareMinerals’ Blemish Remedy Foundation, £27, fully covers discoloured skin while preventing future breakouts. Vichy’s Dermablend, £20, is also an industry favourite for its camouflaging abilities.

If Your Skin is Bumpy and Uneven...

Solution: Smooth it out with a weekly peel

Certain types of acne, like nodules and cysts, can lead to noticeable scars as well as an uneven complexion. These scars, which are caused by excess tissue production, result in raised areas where the blemish was. These bumps can be treated with topical peels, which can now be safely done at home with specialised products. Nature Bissé Glyco Extreme Peel, £208, is approved by dermatologists and contains a high concentration of skin-exfoliating glycolic acid. Those with sensitive skin may want to try a more gentle option, like Caudalie’s Glycolic Peel, £22.

If Your Skin Is Scarred From Picking...

Solution: Plump with fillers and lasers

According to NY-based dermatologist Jody Levine, fillers can temporarily raise the depressed portion in certain types of acne scars, but in some cases won’t be enough. In these instances, fractioned lasers can be used to boost collagen production and have the advantage of little to no downtime. “The collagen growth can help to rejuvenate the skin and improve scars,” she explains. Microneedling, which involves tiny needles puncturing the skin to promote collagen growth, can also help heal scars. Book in for a consultation at EF MediSpa to enquire about fillers, lasers and microneedling; clinics can be found in Kensington, Chelsea, St John’s Wood and Bristol.