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Acne – it is the one thing we all wish we could just erase from our skin’s history. From teenage years to adulthood, breakouts often strike when we least expect it. And while most of us can deal with the occasional pimple, it is the aftermath—the acne marks and scars—that truly leave a lasting impression. Acne marks and scars can be a real confidence killer. But before you start despairing, you should know that there is a ton of treatments out there to help you tackle those pesky remnants, and the best thing is, you do not have to go it alone.
In this guide, we will break down the different types of acne marks and scars, the causes behind them, and the best acne scar treatment in Singapore. Think of it as your ultimate roadmap to clearer, more even skin!
What are acne marks and scars?
First, let us clear up the difference between acne marks and acne scars. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing.
Acne marks are the temporary discolorations or dark spots that remain after a pimple heals. These marks, often referred to as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), are usually brown, red, or purple in color and can last from a few weeks to several months. They are not permanent and typically fade with time (though a little help from topical treatments will not hurt!).
Acne scars, on the other hand, are permanent changes in the texture of your skin. These happen when the skin is damaged during the healing process of acne. Depending on how the skin heals, scars can be indentations (atrophic scars) or raised (hypertrophic or keloid scars). While scars do not fade over time, they can be treated and significantly improved with the right methods.
Types of acne marks and scars
1. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a fancy term for those dark spots that linger after a pimple has healed. These spots are usually brown, purple, or red and can appear anywhere on the face or body where acne occurred. PIH is most common for people with darker skin tones, but anyone can get it.
The most important thing when dealing with PIH is prevention. To prevent your dark spots from becoming even darker, always wear sunscreen! Yes, even when it is cloudy or you are inside the house. UV rays can worsen pigmentation, turning those light brown spots into stubborn, dark marks. In addition to sunscreen, treatments like vitamin C, niacinamide, and retinoids (the same stuff used for acne) can help speed up the fading process. Topical products that contain hydroquinone (a skin-lightening agent) are also popular, but be sure to follow your dermatologist’s advice to avoid irritation.
2. Atrophic scars (Indented scars)
Atrophic scars are what you think of when you imagine a skin surface that has been permanently “dented.” These are the result of the skin losing tissue during the acne healing process, leaving a depression in the skin. There are three main types of atrophic scars: ice pick, boxcar, and rolling.
- Ice pick scars are deep, narrow pits that look like tiny punctures in the skin.
- Boxcar scars are wide, angular scars that create a more noticeable depression.
- Rolling scars have a softer, wave-like appearance, often caused by damage to the skin’s deeper layers.
Atrophic scars are more challenging to treat than PIH, but with some persistence, they can be improved. Microneedling is one of the most effective treatments for stimulating collagen production and filling in those dents. You might also consider laser treatments like fractional lasers or CO2 lasers to resurface the skin and reduce the depth of the scars. If your scars are deeper, your dermatologist might recommend dermal fillers to plump up the skin temporarily or even a more aggressive chemical peel to remove the outer layers of skin and reveal smoother skin beneath.
3. Hypertrophic scars (Raised scars)
Hypertrophic scars are raised, thickened scars that form when too much collagen is produced during the healing process. These scars are usually red or purple and are common in areas like the chest, back, and shoulders. Unlike keloid scars, hypertrophic scars typically stay within the boundaries of the original acne injury.
For hypertrophic scars, the goal is to flatten them and reduce their appearance. Steroid injections can help reduce the size and redness of these scars by breaking down the excess collagen. Silicone sheets or gels are another popular treatment for flattening hypertrophic scars, as they help keep the scar moisturized and reduce tension, which can make the scar more noticeable. If your scars are particularly stubborn, laser treatments like fractional CO2 lasers can help reduce their height and improve the skin’s texture.
4. Keloid scars
Keloid scars are similar to hypertrophic scars but are more aggressive. These scars form when the body produces an excessive amount of collagen, causing the scar to grow beyond the original acne wound. Keloids are often raised, shiny, and can be pink, purple, or darker than your skin tone. They are more common in people with darker skin tones and tend to occur in areas like the ears, shoulders, and chest.
Keloid scars are notoriously difficult to treat. The first line of defense is often steroid injections to flatten the scar. If the keloid is large or painful, your dermatologist might recommend cryotherapy (freezing the scar), laser treatment, or even surgical removal. Unfortunately, keloids can recur after treatment, so managing them may require ongoing care. For those looking for non-invasive options, silicone sheets can be used to soften the scar and prevent further growth.
When to see a dermatologist
If your scars are deep, persistent, or making you feel self-conscious, it may be time to consult a dermatologist in Singapore. A dermatologist can help determine the best treatment plan based on your skin type, the severity of your scars, and your goals. They can also help you figure out which treatment combination will give you the best results.
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Dr David Ng
One Face Skincare
1 Tras Link #02-03 Orchid Hotel
Singapore 078867
+65 6222 2262
