You may have survived that last-minute acne flare-up showing up at an inopportune time in your social calendar, but the war is far from over: say hello to acne scars, those pesky souvenirs marking the crime scene from a bad breakout. In some cases, you might get away with hyperpigmentation but in others, you may be left to deal with deep indentations in your skin. If left unattended, they can take a long time to fade away, if ever. So, how can you deal with these pitted scars? Here's what a dermatologist wants you to know.
What are pitted acne scars?
“Known as atrophic scars in the world of dermatology, such scars form a hollow pit or indentation on the facial skin as a result of recurrent moderate-to-severe acne," says Dr Madhuri Agarwal, founder of Yavana Aesthetics Clinic. She adds, "They can occur as a consequence of the extreme ongoing inflammation triggered by acne that leads to the conversion of healthy, existing collagen into fibrous strands that pull the surface skin inwards. The loss of collagen and blood vessels entrapped in the damaged skin also affect the future generation of new collagen,” she explains.
If you are confused about how to identify one, Dr Agarwal shares an easy guide. “Rolling scars are broader scars with smooth, ill-defined edges, while boxcar scars can appear similar but with well-defined, sharp edges. Both of these scars are usually located in the lower half of the face as well as the jawline. On the other hand, ice pick scars are tiny, deep and narrow scars that are generally difficult to treat. These can be seen on the forehead and the upper portion of cheeks where the skin is thinner,” she says.
How to treat pitted acne scars on the face
For starters, it is essential to know that over-the-counter purchases or the latest buzzy skincare ingredient can’t wave its magic wand and make pitted acne scars disappear. Dr Agarwal recommends seeking procedural treatment at a trusted dermatologist’s clinic. “Chemical peels, micro-needling radiofrequency and intradermal radiofrequency, fractional minimally ablative CO2 laser and dermal fillers are some of the recommended treatments for long-term reduction of acne scars,” she adds.
The Mumbai-based dermatologist does advise tempering your expectations though, as the removal depends on the type of scars. "Studies have shown that boxcar scars respond better to treatment as compared to rolling scars, while ice pick scars are poor responders to treatment. Likewise, shallow and newer scars can demonstrate near-complete clearance as compared to old, deeper scars," she cautions.
While you consider your treatment options, it pays to bear in mind that certain skincare missteps could be making your scarring worse. "Neglecting active acne, especially if it is severe and recurrent, is a major no-no, as well as picking and prodding active acne repeatedly. Other mistakes that can compound the problem are not wearing sunscreen, smoking, self-treatment using multiple active ingredients on active acne and not consulting a dermatologist."
As a rule of thumb, she advises adopting some vigilance to your skincare regimen to avoid struggling with stubborn scars later.
"Treat active acne immediately to prevent future scars as it is easier to improve active acne than to struggle over removing acne scars," she signs off.
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