Acne marks and acne scars are two terms that are often used interchangeably. But, they are two different conditions, which require different treatment and care. One must understand the difference to identify the actual cause.
When it comes to acne marks vs acne scars, knowing what you are dealing with is important to achieve better skin health. Not every spot left behind by acne is a scar. Acne marks and acne scars affect skin differently. Have a look at the difference between acne marks and acne scars and find out how to treat them.
Difference Between Acne Marks and Acne Scars
The discussion around acne marks vs acne scars should start with how they develop and what difference it has on affecting the skin.
Acne marks are flat spots or discolouration that appears after a pimple heals. It can be red, pink, brown or dark. These marks are caused by inflammation and pigmentation changes. Acne marks only affect the outer layer of the skin.
Acne scars, on the other hand, damage deeper layers of the skin, leaving textural differences. This can appear as pits, depression or raised areas on the skin rather than mere discolouration.
Acne marks may fade over time with proper skin care. But acne scars are often permanent and require professional treatment to heal.
Acne Mark Treatment
It is always advisable to respond to the concern once you have diagnosed it. There are many types of acne mark treatments available like chemical peels and treatments using retinoids, niacinamides, vitamin C etc. Acne mark treatment can help the following:
- Reduce pigmentation and inflammation
- Even skin tone
- Speed up the fading of acne marks
You can choose between different treatment options based on your skin type and severity of the pigmentation.
Acne Scar Treatment
Acne scars will not heal on their own or fade like acne marks. Acne scars need medical attention, as they have affected deeper layers of skin. Acne scar treatments include microneedling, laser resurfacing, subcision, etc. These treatments help the following:
- Boost collagen production
- Improve skin texture
- Reduce severity and depth of scars
- Even out uneven skin surfaces.
The type and severity of the scars have to be examined before deciding on a treatment method to achieve a better outcome.
Common Myths About Acne Marks and Acne Scars
There are many myths surrounding the topic of acne marks vs acne scars. Let us bust some of them.
- Acne marks won’t fade.
That is not true. Most of the acne marks fade over time, especially with proper care and treatment.
- Acne scars can be healed using home remedies.
Home remedies can only improve the overall skin health. But professional medical treatment is required to heal acne marks.
- All acne scars are the same kind.
Not at all. Acne scars can vary greatly. Some may be deep pits, some may be raised skin surfaces, some may have uneven texture, and so on. Treatment can also vary as per the severity and type of scars.
- Only severe acne can cause scarring.
Not always. Moderate acne also can leave scars. Acne scars can also happen if pimples are frequently picked.
Conclusion
The primary and important part of any treatment is accurate diagnosis. It is the same in case of acne marks and acne scars. Here is where you need professional help. Self-diagnosis can be confusing. So, consult an experienced dermatologist and get a detailed skin assessment done to find the depth of damage and skin concerns to determine suitable treatment options.
Aluer offers advanced treatment methods supervised by experienced dermatologists. At our skin clinic in Calicut, we deliver genuine care to your skin concerns and provide you with better results. Contact us for more details and treatment booking.
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FAQ
Complete removal may not always be possible. It depends on the severity of the damage. Acne scar treatment can significantly heal the scars to an extent.
Most acne scars need professional treatment to heal. Acne marks may fade on their own.
If your acne marks or acne scars are not healing and remain stubborn, it is good to consult a professional.
Yes. Many acne marks gradually fade with time, although professional treatments can speed up the process.
