Say Goodbye to Acne Scars
Do you suffer from post-acne scarring? Acne scars are one of the most commonly discussed skin concerns and have been shown to affect people not only physically, but also emotionally. Here are some tips and tricks to combat acne scarring.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a form of collagen induction therapy, essentially telling your skin to heal itself from the inside out. Our personal favorite treatment is with the SkinPen. This treatment is great for not only acne scarring, but also post-inflammatory erythema, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, and overall skin texture. A series of 4-6 treatments, 4-6 weeks apart is ideal for maximum results. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) can be used during this treatment to supercharge results.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels use varying ingredients to work under the surface of the skin to promote cell turnover and new skin cell growth. Peels can vary in strength and depth, some causing a “full peel” and others that offer results without the “snake skin” shedding. This cell turnover and new skin growth helps to diminish the appearance of acne scars over time.
Sunscreen
We can’t preach this one enough. Everyone should be wearing a daily SPF. Yes, even in the Wisconsin winters and even when indoors. Did you know computers and phones emit light that can age your skin? The rays from both the sun and technology not only cause premature skin aging, but also cause hyperpigmentation and collagen breakdown. Wearing your daily SPF allows skin protection and fading of acne scars. Our personal favorite SPFs are Intellishade Original and Intellishade TruPhysical from Revision Skincare. Other top contenders include Skinbetter Science ToneSmart Lotion, as well as Supergoop Glow Screen, and Supergoop Play.
Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C serums help increase collagen production in the skin, which improves overall skin texture and tone, thus improving acne scarring. It is very important to make sure you are using a “stable” form of Vitamin C. Look for the ingredient Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (stable vitamin C) versus L-Ascorbic Acid (unstable vitamin C). Our personal favorite Vitamin C serum is Alto Advanced from Skinbetter Science.
Tyrosinase Inhibitors
Tyrosinase is an enzyme in the skin that increases pigmentation. Using a Tyrosinase inhibitor does exactly what it sounds like, inhibits the enzyme, thus improving hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory erythema, such as acne scarring. Our favorite tyrosinase inhibitor is Even Tone Correcting Serum from Skinbetter Science.
Topical Retinoids
Retinoid, Retinol, and Retinoic Acid all help promote cell turnover, thus fading acne scars more quickly. They also help with fine lines and wrinkles, as well as hyperpigmentation. Our favorite serums are AlphaRet Clearing Serum and AlphaRet Overnight Cream from Skinbetter Science.
Time and Consistency
This is so important. We all want change overnight, but it just isn’t reality. Without treatments, acne scarring and post-inflammatory erythema/pigmentation can last years or longer. Consistent treatments and patience are key components in the skincare process.
