What Are Acne Scars?
Acne scars are the remnants that remain after the acne has healed. This occurrence is quite prevalent. Approximately 20% of individuals develop acne scars on areas like their face, chest, or back.
If your aim is to reduce the visibility of your scars, a dermatologist can be of assistance. They can examine your skin and recommend a suitable treatment option.
Types Of Acne Scars
Acne can lead to seven distinct types of scars. It is normal to have multiple varieties. If your skin is susceptible to breakouts, you might observe:
Ice pick Scars
These scars resemble wounds created by an ice pick. They have a broad opening at the top that narrows as it descends. Ice pick scars are more common on the forehead or upper cheeks due to the naturally thinner skin in those areas.
Boxcar Scars
These scars appear as though a shape of a square or circle has been pressed into the skin. Typically, boxcar scars occur on the jawline or lower cheeks.
Rolling Scars
When your skin presents a wavy and irregular appearance, you have what is termed a rolling scar. This results from damage occurring beneath the skin’s surface. This type of scarring is typically located on the lower cheeks or around the jawline.
Hypertrophic Scars
Some scars cause the skin to dip in, while hypertrophic scars form elevated scar tissue over the previous acne area. This happens due to an overproduction of collagen in the skin. You may find this kind of acne scar on your chest, back, shoulders, or face.
Keloid Scars
These raised formations may have a darker coloration than your skin. They can also be larger than the original acne lesions. Like hypertrophic scars, keloids can sometimes result in itching or discomfort.
Dark Spots Or Discoloration And Acne Scars
After a pimple resolves, you might notice a dark spot, particularly if you have medium to dark skin tones. This occurs because acne can unintentionally stimulate an increase in melanin (skin pigment) production. Also read acne scar treatment singapore for more detailed information.
Acne Scar Causes
There are several factors that can lead to scarring post-acne:
Significant skin injury. Any kind of acne can create lasting marks, but scarring is more probable with deeper skin damage. For example, nodules, which are hard lumps beneath the skin, and cysts, which are pus-filled and can be tender, are both more likely to leave scars.
Squeezing pimples. Many people feel the urge to pick or press on a pimple. However, doing so does not expedite healing; instead, it aggravates the skin further, increasing the likelihood of scarring.