When it comes to acne scars (and acne), there are SO MANY solutions out there for our troubles, even if they’re not immediately obvious. But while I can go on about treatments, lasers, creams, and needles all day, the most important weapon in the fight against acne scars is prevention! When dealing with acne, don’t pick! Don’t pop! Make sure to use good, clean cleansers (I recommend the Drunk Elephant line), and moisturizers that suit your skin type for immediately afterwards. If you’re interested, I also have written resources about helping to prevent acne, or “Maskne”, while wearing a face mask all day. The best offense is a good defense, so work on prevention even before considering solutions to problems that have yet to arise. That being said, once you do have acne scars, never fear! You have not been defeated, and there are many different treatment options to choose from to deal with facial acne scarring, fine lines, and enlarged pores.
Cleansers and moisturizing are ways to prevent acne, but what about if you have some on your face already and you want to avoid future scarring? When considering masks and creams, I always recommend looking for those with beta hydroxy acids, like the Clear-C Peeling Mask. This mask targets dead skin cells so you can say bye-bye to uneven skin texture. The alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic and lactic acid, are also great at clearing up pores. Plus, they can be slightly less irritating than salicylic acid. That being said, all of these ingredients are effective at reducing all types of acne, whether it be hormonal, comedonal, or inflammatory. For those with more sensitive skin, I recommend the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask (2oz). Acne and sensitive skin are a combo that’s all too common, but with a little love from this mask, you can sort out both issues in no time. Oatmeal is a soothing ingredient, which is perfect for sensitive and dry skin. This mask helps to rejuvenate distressed, dry, acne-prone skin, and with a little help from the added shea butter, will moisturize and protect the skin barrier.
If you’re looking for a more intense solution for your acne scars, then I have multiple options from which you can choose! My first recommendation is our personalized Chemical Peels, which can be adjusted to meet any and all needs. Along with the Chemical Peels, I like the RF Microneedling Treatment, an advanced skin treatment that combines microneedling, radiofrequency, and light therapy to contour and tighten the face. It also helps to minimize and treat large pores, acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles. Another great option for your acne scars is a Fraxel Laser Skin Resurfacing treatment. The Fraxel Laser is FDA approved, and helps to transform skin texture and tone, even for those who have advanced skin damage and scarring. It’s perfect for all skin types and tones, too. And make sure to ask about our Laser Genesis which kills bacteria and leaves an even tone while it peels!
If you’re interested in learning more about treatments and what we can do to keep your skin at its best, feel free to make an appointment to come in! Please remember that masks are mandatory for all appointments, and we encourage you to call the office to discuss all safety precautions being taken.
Want more skin care tips and tricks? Follow me on Instagram where I answer all your questions as part of my #UnfilteredDerm Stories!
There is not a more caring, more attentive, smarter dermatologist than Dr Marnie Nussbaum. I trust her implicitly with anything and highly recommend her.
— Carolyn Rosen
featured in
Beauty, Inspiration & Skincare
Follow Dr. Nussbaum on Instagram!
