The science of acne scars
Acne scars needn't leave you feeling insecure.
If you have suffered from acne in the past you know how hard it can be to cover up the scars left behind from the condition.
While there is the theory that picking your pimples leaves marks, this isn't actually the case. New York dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe revealed there are forms of acne which are more prone to scarring than others, whether you aggravate them or not.
"They are mostly cystic lesions that feel painful underneath the skin and they don't really connect with the surface easily," she told. "The inflammation gets trapped in there.
"A true acne scar is when your body takes that healing process one step further and is not able to actually form the collagen the normal way. All the enzymes that are in the area of the acne lesion eat away at things like collagen and elastin. In the case that the inflammation is so great, the collagen and elastic tissue is not able to regenerate completely, or it does in a sort of disorganised or pathologic and not healthy fashion, and you're left with a scar."
You can prevent acne from coming back and reduce the blemishes left behind in various ways.
One of these is to get into a regular skincare regime. Sometimes paying out for top-quality products pays off and in this case it may be worth investing in some scientifically-proven items to help get your skin back to good condition. It's as simple as cleansing, toning and moisturising - just make sure you keep it up.
Lemon juice has also been proven as a cheap and effective way of naturally lightening your skin and reducing any dark spots.
One major way you can keep your skin out of harm's way is to protect it from the sun. It's recommended you always use a higher SPF sun cream on your face than the rest of your body as your skin there is the most sensitive. Lots of moisturisers include an SPF these days so this is an easy way to make sure you're constantly sheltered from the beams. It doesn't hurt to wear a hat either. If you suffer from acne on other parts of your body or have scars from before, apply the suncream tip above to your body routine as well.
If you feel really insecure and don't think these tips are enough, contact your GP for further treatment. Dermabrasion removes the top layers of skin using a rapidly rotating wire brush, which usually reduces the blemishes as well. Microdermabrasion is another less-invasive procedure. This involves applying small crystals onto the target area which are then, along with dead skin cells, vacuumed up.
Make sure you pick the right method that works with your own body and if you do opt to have more dramatic actions, make sure you approach a professional.
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