Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting millions of people globally. It usually makes its first appearance during puberty, but can also affect adults, with triggers ranging from hormonal changes to lifestyle factors. While acne itself can be uncomfortable and frustrating, it’s the aftermath, acne scars and recurring breakouts, that often become the most distressing.
Several factors contribute to the development of acne, many of which are internal, not visible at first glance. Hormonal fluctuations, often linked to puberty or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), play a key role in acne outbreaks. Hormones like androgens increase the size and activity of sebaceous (oil) glands in the skin, which leads to clogged pores.
Other factors that can trigger acne include stress, which can increase cortisol levels and trigger inflammation, and diet; especially foods high in refined sugars and dairy. Additionally, using harsh skincare products, touching your face frequently, or wearing makeup that clogs pores can also exacerbate the problem.
Also read | Get rid of acne scar naturally: Use these dermatologist-approved home remedies for clear skin
Says Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist and Cosmetic Dermatologist at The Esthetic Clinics, “Acne is not just a skin issue, but a multifactorial condition. It’s influenced by hormonal shifts, genetics, and even lifestyle choices. To effectively manage it, it’s crucial to address the root cause, not just treat the visible symptoms. Once acne has healed, the challenge shifts to treating the scars it leaves behind. While scars naturally fade over time, there are several treatments that can help accelerate this process and improve the skin’s appearance,” she says.
Follow these strategies to treat the scars and prevent future breakouts:
- Consult a dermatologist: The first step in treating acne scars is consulting a dermatologist. A professional can assess your skin type, the severity of the scars, and determine the most effective treatment for you. "While many over-the-counter treatments promise results, they often lack the precision and safety of a doctor-guided approach. Professional treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy are often more effective for long-term results," says Dr Kapoor.
- Avoid harsh home remedies: Many people turn to home remedies like lemon juice, baking soda, or honey in hopes of fading scars, but these methods often do more harm than good. Not all remedies are suitable for every skin type, and harsh ingredients can worsen inflammation and cause further scarring. Stick to scientifically-backed treatments recommended by your dermatologist to avoid aggravating the problem.
- Practice gentle skincare routine: A consistent, gentle skincare routine is important. Choose products that are designed for acne-prone skin, preferably ones that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, or retinoids. These ingredients help reduce acne scars by promoting cell turnover and healing. Be sure to incorporate a good sunscreen, as sun exposure can darken scars and make them harder to treat.
- Use chemical peels and laser therapy: For more severe scarring, dermatologists may recommend treatments such as chemical peels or laser therapy. Chemical peels use acids to exfoliate the skin, improving texture and fading scars over time. Laser treatments target deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production, helping to smooth out scars. Both treatments are effective but should only be performed under professional supervision.
- Try microneedling: Another advanced treatment option is microneedling, where tiny needles are used to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and skin healing. This can help reduce the appearance of scars and improve overall skin texture.
- Treat scars topically: Your dermatologist might also recommend topical treatments containing ingredients like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin C. These can help lighten scars and promote skin renewal. Be patient, as these treatments can take several weeks or months to show results.
- Modify your lifestyle: Treating acne scars is only part of the solution. Preventing future breakouts requires lifestyle adjustments. Dr. Kapoor tells, “Managing stress, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding triggers like smoking and heavy makeup are all key to keeping acne at bay.” Additionally, maintaining a consistent skincare routine with non-comedogenic products can prevent new breakouts from forming.
Preventing future breakouts:
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can trigger hormone fluctuations that lead to acne. Practicing stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can significantly reduce the risk of breakouts.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Diet plays a crucial role in skin health. Limiting refined sugars, processed foods, and dairy can help balance hormones and reduce inflammation. Incorporating more omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can also promote healthy skin.
- Avoid touching your face: Your hands come into contact with bacteria and dirt throughout the day, and touching your face can transfer these irritants to your skin, leading to new breakouts. Avoid touching your face, and always wash your hands before applying skincare products.
- Cleanse your skin: A regular skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing can help remove excess oils and dirt from your pores. Be sure to use non-comedogenic products to avoid clogging your pores, which can lead to acne formation.
- Use sunscreen daily: Sunscreen is crucial, especially when treating acne scars. UV exposure can darken scars, making them more visible. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and make it part of your daily routine.
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