Health and Fitness Help

Acne is one of the most common skin disorders. It affects primarily adolescents, however, acne is found among adults as well. Acne is caused when an oily substance called sebum is produced by sebaceous glands, plugs skin pores and mix with acne causing bacteria and dead skin. Many times acne, leaves scars after healing which are unsightly.

Acne lesions, once healed can leave a reddish pigmentation on the affected skin.  Even if you get rid of acne fast, these reddish areas will still stick around. These are not actual scars but signs of change in the skin after inflammation. They are actually signs that the skin’s healing process is progressing. The whole healing process can take anywhere from six to twelve months. If the pigmentation is still visible after twelve months, this is generally accepted as an acne scar. This happens if no additional lesion occurs within the healing period.

Acne scars can be prevented by trying to avoid lesions through the proper treatment of acne. Once acne is healed, the mark itself is a sign of the skin regenerating. It is important that the healing process is managed to avoid any further damage and to facilitate the skin’s repair.

Here are a few quick tips to avoid bad acne scars while the skin is healing:

• Protect your skin from the sun. Overexposure to the sun can cause skin damage and will delay the healing of the skin. Wear appropriate sunscreen while under the sun;
• Tretinoin is derived from Vitamin A and is in acid form. Use it to hasten the healing process including post inflammation changes;
• Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids are used commonly in chemical peels. Cosmetologists use these acids to erase fine lines in the skin and they give a smooth appearance with use. Beta hydroxy acids in particular are used for its ability to penetrate into the pores and exfoliate sebum and dead skin cells. It is important that the right concentration is applied as over exposure can cause skin irritation;
• Stop picking on scabs in the skin. Picking on scabs disrupts the healing process and cause further damage to the skin and delay the healing process;
• Use a mild facial wash and cleanse every day.

While it is difficult to prevent the occurrence of acne, its proper treatment is readily available and can help with avoiding acne scars. Patience will be required due to the length of time that the healing process takes place. Nevertheless, it is better to follow the simple guidelines above then suffer a lifetime with unsightly scars.