Pickers and squeezers: 5 ways to avoid pimple scars

Having a pimple scar is like having a stain or damage on a white dress: It's noticeable or more pigmented than the skin's overall color. A scar is formed from a deep wound to the skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, when an injury penetrates the inner layer of your skin called the dermis, collagen is made to heal the wound, which forms scar tissue. The most common type of acne scar is atrophic or sunken scars. Pitted scars are often the result of collagen loss on the area where an acne breakout was present. Other post-acne blemishes that are mistaken for scarring are post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Large, inflamed pimples are more likely to leave darker pigments behind. Let's look at how you can prevent and treat your acne scars. 

Prevent skin damage 

The worst thing you can do is tamper with an inflamed pimple. Doing so can cause further irritation and spread infection. It also causes prolonged scarring. The best practice is to let it heal by minimizing irritation.  

Treat acne once it forms 

Add salicylic acid face wash to your skin routine. It clears oil, dirt, dead skin cells or any contaminant that leads to acne. Find the salicylic acid product that's right for you. Always test on a small portion of your skin before applying on a larger skin surface.  

Microdermabrasion and collagen treatment 

Also known as depressed scars, an ice-pick-scar may go away on its own. If it does not, ask your dermatologist about microdermabrasion, a treatment where the top layer of the skin is removed with gentle exfoliation to reveal new skin. Another option is to get a collagen injection. It will smooth out uneven skin surfaces. 

Remove dark marks   

Use retinol-based creams or cleansers. Retin-A is a vitamin that helps increase cell regeneration. That means it speeds up the production of new skin cells. It also reduces inflammation and skin lesions.   

Alpha Hydroxy (AHA) 

AHAs are also an excellent way to unclog pores and remove marks on the skin. Find an AHA product that's gentle to use every day and get rid of rough, bumpy skin.