Is it because of the squeezing of pimples? Causes of post-acne
Acne scars can remain on the skin for several reasons:
Deep skin damage. Any type of acne can leave an indelible mark. But scarring is more likely if acne penetrates deep into the skin. For example, acne, which feels like hard lumps under the skin, contains a lot of pus and can be painful to the touch, is likely to leave scars.
Squeezing out pimples. The desire to pick or squeeze out a pimple is a common thing. But this does not contribute to the rapid disappearance of the pimple: the skin in the pimple area will become more inflamed, and the likelihood of a scar will become higher.
Your genes. If a close relative has acne scars, you may be prone to them. Dark skin also increases the likelihood of scarring.
How do I know that I have a post-acne?
In addition to common external signs such as sunken or bulging marks on the skin, post-acne scars can itch or be painful. Acne scars often become more noticeable with age.
Persistent red or brown dark spots may also remain on the skin.
Red spots
Red or cyanotic spots, which are sometimes called "stagnant", are post-inflammatory erythema of the skin. They occur after deep inflammation. They often appear after self-extrusion of comedones, which not only damages blood vessels, but also increases inflammation that penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin. People with sensitive skin and fragile vessels are prone to this type of post-acne. Usually, post-inflammatory spots disappear over time, but this process can take several months.
Brown spots
Inflammation can trigger the production of melanin in the skin, creating a persistent brown mark. This trace may not go away for a long time and develop into a scar. It is more common on dark skin, although it can affect light skin. Doctors call this post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or PVG.
Post-acne scars
Post-acne scars occur where a deep spot has become so inflamed that enzymes have corroded the internal building blocks of the skin: collagen and elastin. The skin produces scar tissue to heal the damage. The result is a pitted appearance of the skin: dermatologists call this atrophic scarring.
How to remove the post-acne?
Home care
We replenish the cosmetic bag with products to combat post-acne. Look for the following components in the composition of care products:
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
Alpha Hydroxy Acids: Glycolic, lactic and almond acids work by dissolving the "glue" that holds dead skin cells together, revealing brighter and fresher skin underneath. They help speed up the natural exfoliation process.
In addition, indelible lotions, creams and gels will give better results than washable products: cleansers.
Other components that will help eliminate hyperpigmentation:
Niacinamide
Vitamins A and C
Retinoids
Retinoids (or vitamin A) are effective against acne because they reduce hyperpigmentation by increasing the rate of cell renewal. They reduce the activity of the sebaceous glands, which leads to a decrease in the production of sebum (sebum), which can clog pores. Retinoids also stimulate the production of collagen. Collagen improves the firmness and elasticity of the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of post-acne.
Azelaic acid
Products with azelaic acid reduce inflammation and accelerate cell renewal. Azelaic acid also has antibacterial properties. This can prevent new rashes and promote skin improvement.
When using these treatments, pay attention to excessive dryness, redness and irritation of the skin, as this can provoke post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
You can also use cosmetics during the treatment. Foundation and concealer should be non-comedogenic.
And the good news! Hyperpigmentation can disappear over time even without treatment. But time is the key word. The traces may lighten after a couple of months, and in some cases even longer. It depends on how dark the spot is compared to the surrounding skin. The greater the contrast between the dark area and the natural skin tone, the longer it will take.
Beauty treatments at Olympus Clinics
Before you start treating post-acne, it is important to completely cure the acne itself. There is no point in treating the traces left after acne if you still have rashes on a regular basis. Acne treatment in Olympus Clinics is carried out by experienced dermatologists. They assess the severity of acne and make up an individual skin repair plan, which may include peeling, cleansing, laser therapy and other procedures.
Lumecca IPL Phototherapy
An effective method to eliminate red spots and pigmentation after acne. During the procedure, the cosmetologist uses intense pulsed light (IPL), which penetrates the tissues and is converted into heat. This heat heats the cells and promotes the destruction of melanin, which leads to lightening of problem areas. Phototherapy only affects pigmented areas, and healthy tissues remain intact. The procedure is carried out by the course and provides noticeable and long-term results.
Micro Needle RF Lifting
A procedure for the treatment of post-acne with the use of radiofrequency energy. During the session, the electromagnetic field activates the movement and rotation of ions and charged particles in tissues, causing them to heat up. This stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin, and destroys dead cells. The procedure is suitable for all skin types and can be performed even after sunburn.
CO2 Laser Grinding
Laser resurfacing is an effective remedy for post—acne on the face. The laser beam acts on the melanin in the cells, heating and evaporating the pigment. This leads to the layered destruction of pigment and tissue regeneration, stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin. Laser therapy helps to even out skin tone, increase elasticity and get rid of scars.
Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is an injection procedure in which cocktails with hyaluronic acid, vitamins and other active substances are injected into the skin. This helps to reduce stagnant spots and improve the complexion. In addition, mesotherapy helps with acne. Cocktails often contain anti-inflammatory substances that can reduce inflammation.
Microcurrent therapy
During microcurrent therapy, weak current pulses affect the skin. This helps to get rid of hyperpigmentation, improve lymphatic drainage and overall skin health.
Chemical peeling
Solutions and acids (salicylic, lactic, glycolic and others) effectively eliminate age spots. These formulations contribute to the renewal and alignment of the microrelief of the skin.
About healthy habits
In order not to get upset about post-acne and to minimize skin problems, remember the following:
Do not pick or squeeze out pimples. This not only increases inflammation on the skin, but also slows down the healing process, so acne stays longer.
Keep your hands away from your face. Dirt and bacteria on the hands and nails can get on the skin and lead to acne, cause an exacerbation of existing ones.
Use mild cleansers. Care products with a pH below 4.5 can cause irritation and redness, so it is better to use products with a pH of 5.5. For oily and problematic skin, cosmetic products with a pH in the range of 4.0-4.5 are suitable.
Smoke less or quit this habit. Smoking impairs blood circulation, which slows down the healing process of the skin. Lack of oxygen and nutrients in the skin can slow down recovery from acne, increase the risk of post-inflammatory spots.
Spend less time in the sun. After acne, the skin can produce melanin in response to damage. The ultraviolet rays of the sun can enhance this process, leading to hyperpigmentation and the formation of dark spots. When you are outdoors, use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for one that says "non-comedogenic" on the label. This means that it will not clog pores and will not cause acne.
Treat acne as soon as acne appears. This is the best way to prevent acne scars.
As always, do not hesitate to contact a dermatologist for professional advice on how to solve a problem related to acne or post-acne. At an appointment with a cosmetologist at Olympus Clinics, you will receive a treatment plan. During the treatment process, the doctor will evaluate the intermediate results and make adjustments. You will also be told about your skin type and what your beauty routine should consist of. And you can see the results of treatment after the procedures on our website.