Let’s face it: the only thing worse than a breakout is a scar from a previous breakout. Although the skin may be healed from the pimple, the constant reminder of it (dark spots, we’re looking at you) is enough to make us want to make an appointment with a skincare expert. Luckily, celebrity esthetician Vee Mistry gave us insight into how to easily heal acne scars—meaning the path to clear skin is closer than ever.
From understanding the different types of scars to diving into home remedies and professional procedures, we’ve done the dirty work to figure out the best acne scar treatments for every skin type. Whether you’re struggling with shallow pits, pigmentation issues, or something in between, read on for expert tips on how to cure acne scars once and for all.
How can I avoid acne scars?
Okay, so the key to avoiding acne scars is to avoid acne – but as we know, that’s obviously easier said than done. However, there are some ways to prevent both acne and acne scars. “To prevent acne scars, start with a quality cleanser that contains salicylic or glycolic acid,” explains Mistry. “These ingredients dissolve the mix of sebum and dead skin cells that clog pores, paving the way for healthier skin.” They also help remove dirt, makeup, and other debris. As for some of our favorites, we’ve found the Dermalogica Daily Glycolic Cleanser and CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser to be great for all skin types.
But what happens if I get pimples after using a good cleanser?
Pimples happen. But the key to clear skin—and avoiding acne scars—is resisting the temptation to pick, squeeze, or pop pimples. (Trust us, we know it’s hard.) Picking at pimples can cause inflammation, disrupt the healing process, and most certainly increase the likelihood of scarring. Instead, try a spot treatment (like the Clean & Clear Advantage Acne Spot Treatment or the Skinfix Acne+ 2% BHA and Azelain Acid Acne Spot Treatment) or acne patches (like the Peace Out 2% Salicylic Acid Early Stage Acne Dots). Let skin imperfections heal naturally.
Which ingredients are most effective for fading acne scars?
When it comes to fading acne scars, there are a few specific skin care ingredients that are known for their high effectiveness. “The key ingredients for fading acne scars are retinol and retinaldehyde, which accelerate cell turnover and bring fresh, healthy cells to the surface,” says Mistry. Prescription tretinoin, as well as over-the-counter retinol and adapalene, are good choices when it comes to incorporating retinoids into your skin care routine. These ingredients not only combat existing scars, but also prevent new scars from forming (a win-win situation!).
In addition to retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are effective solutions for fading acne scars. Glycolic acid and lactic acid, which are part of the AHA family, work by gently exfoliating the skin’s surface, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. This exfoliating action helps reduce the appearance of scars and hyperpigmentation, leaving fresher and clearer skin underneath.
The best part? AHAs are found in various skin care products, including toners, serums, and chemical peels. Top-selling products with AHAs include Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution and Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Pads.
What professional treatments are there for stubborn acne scars?
If at-home treatments just aren’t enough, consider professional treatments to help minimize acne scars. “Microneedling is very effective for stubborn acne scars,” says Mistry. “It creates controlled micro-damage to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture. For deeper scars, consulting a plastic surgeon about laser treatment options can provide targeted solutions.”
As for laser treatment options, laser therapy uses focused beams of light to target specific scar areas, while fractional laser treatments (e.g. fractional CO2 or erbium lasers) create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production to heal the skin improve appearance of scars. Additionally, IPL (Intensive Pulsed Light) therapy can target pigmented scars and reduce redness and discoloration.
What is the best way to repair deep acne scars?
If you are struggling with shallow pits and deep acne scars, there is no need to worry because there are ways to fix them. The most effective are professional treatments such as fractional laser therapy, microneedling and chemical peels. These treatments get straight to the point by targeting acne scars and working overtime to improve collagen production in the affected areas.
A pro tip: Be sure to incorporate sun protection into your daily skin care routine, as UV rays can worsen the appearance of acne scars and hinder the healing process. Sun protection is non-negotiable.
What are the best products to make acne scars disappear at home?
Dealing with acne scars can often feel like a long battle, but with the right arsenal of skin care products, achieving clear, even-toned skin is within reach. From serums and peels to antioxidant-rich formulations, there are – in addition to those already mentioned! – a handful of great options to help fade acne scars. Whether you’re struggling with hyperpigmentation, texture irregularities, or stubborn spots left behind by previous breakouts, these products offer targeted solutions backed by science and skincare experts.
This serum combines niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 known for its ability to reduce inflammation and fade hyperpigmentation, with zinc to regulate sebum production (read: fewer breakouts) and promote overall skin health. Niacinamide helps reduce the appearance of acne scars while improving skin texture and tone.
This fan-favorite antioxidant serum combines vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid to provide effective protection against environmental damage while promoting collagen production. This serum also brightens complexion and improves overall skin health.
“Ideal for overnight use, combats hyperpigmentation and smooths skin texture,” says Mistry. Additionally, it is enriched with a blend of papaya and pineapple enzymes that gently exfoliate, refresh and renew the skin’s surface. Yes, please.
This peeling gel contains glycolic acid that gently removes dead skin cells, promotes cell renewal and fades hyperpigmentation. Use it regularly to improve the texture and appearance of acne scars.
Enriched with natural pumpkin enzymes, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and antioxidants, this mask gently dissolves dead skin cells, unclogs pores and promotes cell renewal. It fades acne scars, improves skin texture and gives the skin a radiant complexion.
This is a Mistry-recommended serum-lotion hybrid with retinol and turmeric that’s perfect for nighttime use for scar lightening.
