How to Avoid Acne Scars

Nobody wants to deal with an acne breakout. Acne can be bothersome, embarrassing, and painful. Fortunately, it’s treatable.

That said, acne scars can remain on your skin for a lifetime. They’re lasting evidence of your acne breakout and can be more difficult to conceal than the actual acne. The inflammation associated with acne breaks down the walls of your pores, leaving recessed grooves and divots across your skin. 

Though treatments are available to reduce acne scars, including chemical peels and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) therapy, most people prefer to prevent acne scars. 

If you have acne or are prone to it, consult with John P. Freeman, MD, DDS, FACS, to review ways to reduce your risk of scars. At his private practice in Katy, Texas, he specializes in all things skin, including acne and acne scar prevention. 

Acne scars are among the top issues that people bring to their dermatologists. Here’s what you can do today to prevent acne scars. 

Don’t wait to treat your acne

The longer you let your acne go without treatment, the more likely you’ll experience scarring. Though some acne resolves without much effort, other breakouts linger. Start treating your acne today instead of waiting weeks or months hoping it’ll disappear. 

Some effective acne treatments include:

• Over-the-counter topicals, like salicylic acid
• Retinoids
• Combined oral contraceptives (birth control pills) by prescription
• Isotretinoin by prescription
• Light therapy
• Steroid injections
• Some chemical peels

Avoid aggravating your acne –– the more inflammation, the more likely you are to scar. Never pop or pick your pimples or irritate them with friction, pressure, or strong chemical products. 

If you have difficulty not picking at pimples or scabs, try hydrocolloid bandages. They cover your pimples to keep bacteria out and absorb any fluid. 

Protect your skin from the sun

Too much sunlight, or ultraviolet (UV) light, is bad for your skin. That is even more true in the context of acne scars. When UV rays damage your skin, they darken the discoloration associated with acne scars, making them more visible. 

Keep it plump and moisturized

Your skin requires plenty of moisture to stay plump and hydrated. Therefore, invest in a gentle moisturizer and drink plenty of water. 

When your skin is dehydrated, textural issues, like acne scars, become more pronounced. Adequate moisture in your skin also assists the natural healing process so your skin can repair the inflammatory damage after an acne breakout. 

Visit our office today

Keep in mind that you may not be able to prevent acne scars entirely even if you treat your skin well. To learn more about acne scars or explore treatment options, call the office of John P. Freeman, MD, DDS, FACS, or book a visit online today.