Pigmented Acne Scar Treatment
Acne causes a variety of scar from raised scars called keloids to depressed scars such as pockmarks. But the main result of acne breakout is pigmented skin or dark marks. These pigmented areas are just the remnants of the scar healing process and is perfectly natural. But most acne sufferers want these pigmented spots gone because they are noticeable and unattractive. There are several treatments for these discolorations. Natural remedies and over-the-counter creams are effective in treating these scars even though in time they disappear on their own.
-
Using Skin Bleaches
-
There are numerous products on the market that claim to even out skin tone and fade discolorations. There products have many names: skin whiteners, skin lighteners, skin bleaches or fade creams. All of the work pretty much the same way. A person applies the cream or lotion to the face and in time the pigmented acne marks fade away. Most of the products contain hydrogen peroxide or hydroquinone. Both are bleaching agents. Look for face creams, ointments or lotions that contain one of these substances. There is ample evidence from users that these chemicals can fade dark marks on the skin.
Using Vitamin E Oil
-
Vitamin E oil is a popular folk remedy for reducing or removing scars. This oil is also less expensive than skin whiteners. It is also a more natural substance so it a safer for the skin than hydroquinone. Many people believe that vitamin E oil helped their scars to heal faster. Many doctors also recommend that patients use vitamin E oil on scars. But there is little scientific evidence that vitamin E actually improves scars. One study at the University of Miami showed that the oil did not improve scars any better than a commercial moisturizer. But other researchers criticized the study for not using enough of the oil and for not having more test subjects. Bottles of vitamin E oil are readily available and come in varying strengths. Some bottles contain 70000 International Units (IU) while others have just 5000 IU. Start with whatever amount you think is best.
Trying Glycolic Acid
-
Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid. These are natural acids that are beneficial in evening out skin tone. Glycolic acid is used as a chemical peel by exfoliating the epidermis or top layer of the skin. The acid, removes dead skin cells and other dirt on the surface of the skin. The peel accelerates new skin growth. In most cases the new skin is less pigmented and lighter in tone. The glycolic acid fades the discolorations. In some cases improvements are seen in a few days. Glycolic acid can be found in many lotions and creams such as Aqua Glycolic. But it is also available in various concentrations from beauty supply stores. Start with the lowest concentration available, usually 30 percent. As your skin becomes accustomed to this level of acidity and if the pigmented acne scars don't seem to be fading, you can then move on to higher concentrations such as 35 or 40 percent. Glycolic acid is a fruit acid so it is safer for the skin than most commercial fade creams.
-
