How to Minimize Acne Scars

When you transitioned out of your teenage years, you may have thought you left the skin issues of your adolescence behind. Unfortunately, adult acne is common, affecting between 40 and 55 percent of the American population between the ages of 20 and 40. As the country continues to recover amidst the coronavirus pandemic, stress levels are at an all-time high. Added to that is the combination of friction as well as trapped moisture and bacteria from wearing a protective mask which has led to an increase in mask-related acne (maskne). Whether acne is an occasional concern, a newly developed for you, or a long-term struggle, it’s important to treat it promptly and to avoid picking at it. As tempting (and satisfying) as it may be to pop that pimple yourself, doing so may increase the healing time and the risk of scarring. Here’s what you need to know about acne scars including what they are, how they form, and how to minimize them with the help of Yon-Ka Paris skincare products.

What Are Acne Scars?

Scars are part of the body’s natural healing process – they form when the dermis is damaged. As the body works to repair the wound, it forms new collagen fibers to mend the damage which results in the formation of scar tissue. Scars typically have a different texture and quality than the skin around them but may fade with time and treatment. Acne scars are a type of atrophic scar, also known as depressed scars. Atrophic acne scars sit below the surrounding skin and are most common on the face. These scars form when the tissue doesn’t produce enough collagen while healing and there are three common types. Hypertrophic scars are more common with chest and back acne – they form when there’s too much collagen during healing. Here are some of the most common types of acne scars:

• Ice Pick – Similar in appearance to chickenpox scars, ice pick scars are narrow and V-shaped, going deep into the skin. These scars look like small round or oval-shaped holes.
• Rolling – This type of acne scar forms a wide depression with rounded edges and an irregular, often rolling appearance.
• Boxcar – These are typically wide, U-shaped scars with sharp edges. Boxcar scars may be either shallow or deep – the shallower they are, the more they are likely to respond to treatment.
• Keloid – A type of raised scar, keloid scars form when fibrous scar tissue forms over the wound, often making the scar much larger than the original wound itself.

In addition to scarring, moderate to severe acne can also cause skin discoloration. Typically red, brown, or purple in color, this discoloration often fades within a few months after the lesion has healed.

What Causes Acne Lesions to Scar?

Acne forms when your pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. When acne forms close to the skin’s surface, it typically heals over a short period of time with little to no scarring. Deep-rooted acne, however, may take longer to heal and, because it destroys more of the skin’s tissue, it is more likely to scar. Changes in pigmentation associated with acne are common but may not be permanent. Here are some of the factors that can cause acne lesions to scar:

• Inadequate or excess collagen production during healing
• Deep or inflammatory acne cysts and nodules
• Picking, squeezing, or popping pimples increases the risk of scarring
• People with blood relatives who have acne scars may have a higher risk
• Failing or waiting to treat acne, particularly severe acne

Acne scars can be treated, but the treatment protocol and prognosis depend on the type and severity of the scar. It’s important to see a skincare professional before starting treatment for acne scars, as some types like keloid scars require dermatological intervention for proper removal. Treatments for deep acne scars like dermabrasion, laser resurfacing, and chemical peels may also require professional application.

Tips for Minimizing Acne Scars

Prevention is always the best medicine, so if you want to avoid having to deal with acne scars it is important to treat acne properly. The first step is to get your acne under control by keeping your skin clean and hydrated, utilizing acne control products appropriate for your skin type. Be gentle with your skin – avoid the temptation to cover your acne with heavy makeup because it could clog your pores and make your breakouts worse. If you have oily skin, freshen up throughout the day with a spritz of Lotion Yon-Ka toner or try blotting paper as needed to deal with surface oil. Once your acne is under control, take stock of your skin’s condition to determine how much scarring you really have. Address discoloration with an antioxidant-rich skin booster or vitamin C products to stimulate collagen production and boost skin cell turnover. Include an exfoliator appropriate for your skin type in your skincare regimen to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. You might even try a multi-acid blend acid peel to improve the texture and pigmentation of your skin. If you’re looking for professional help with acne scarring, Yon-Ka Paris offers a number of in-spa treatments and at-home products specifically for breakouts and acne scarring. The following Yon-Ka products are ideal for treating acne scars:

• Alpha Fluid – This anti-wrinkle daytime moisturizer is formulated for all skin types, designed to activate cellular renewal and smooth fine lines and early wrinkles. Enriched with fruit extracts, sweet almond proteins, and calendula, this formula absorbs quickly to restore your skin’s softness and glow.
• Alpha Peel – A renewing night concentrate gel, this formula moisturizes the skin and renews its outer layers while you sleep. Made with an intensive blend of alpha hydroxy acids, this treatment refines the complexion and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Elixir Vital – Formulated to repair all types of damaged skin, this corrective elixir is made with a moisturizing and restructuring blend of beech bud and soy peptides. Enriched with vitamins E, F, and B5, this treatment diminishes fine lines while revitalizing and remineralizing the skin.
• Phyto 58 PNG – Clarify, detoxify, and renew your skin with this regenerating night cream. Packed with vitamins to tighten pores and tone down pigmentation, this treatment harnesses the purifying action of rosemary and the reparative power of antioxidants.

The Yon-Ka products above are formulated to address minor skin imperfections while restoring hydration, softness, and glow. To kick-start your skin restoration, begin with an Alpha-Vital facial at your local Yon-Ka partner spa and start using Alpha Fluid and Alpha Peel daily for the next month. Follow up with weekly Alpha Vital facials and continue to use Alpha Collection products for 4 weeks. Once you’ve completed the program, segue into using Elixir Vital in the morning and Phyto 58 PNG in the evening to further detoxify, clarify, and heal your skin as part of your daily skincare routine. Choosing the right products for your skin type is important, especially if you are prone to acne. Consult the Yon-Ka Skincare Advisor or stop in to your local Yon-Ka partner spa for a professional consultation and customized skincare product recommendations.