As if having acne wasn’t already bad enough, a reminder of it can linger for years in the form of scarring. You don’t have to just put up with this scarring, though. Various things can be done to reduce its visibility and to improve the texture of your skin. Some can be incorporated into your regular facials, including at-home facials with a mobile beauty service, while other techniques are a little more invasive and require expert application. The level of treatment you need will depend on how extensive the scarring is - read on. 

Oil and serums

Best for: At-home treatment and discoloration

The least invasive way to treat acne scars yourself is to apply particular oils or serums to your skin. Vitamin C serum is effective at brightening the skin and reducing the appearance of dark spots caused by acne. Rosehip oil may also help reduce the appearance of scarring. Other oils to look out for - either on their own or used as an ingredient in serums or blends - include manuka oil, jojoba oil, turmeric oil, lemon oil, and lavender oil.

Peels

Best for: Improved texture and regular use

Facial peels are a common part of in-salon or at-home facials, and beauty therapists will use the best type for your skin. Peels come in varying strengths and some can even be used at home, although you often need to purchase these from a beauty salon rather than over-the-counter. Others are stronger and should only be applied by an expert. Like the name suggests, peels exfoliate the top layer of skin, leaving the layer beneath smoother and more radiant. If you use peels regularly, you may see a reduction in your acne scarring.

Microdermabrasion or dermabrasion

Best for: Salon facials and improved texture

You’re probably already familiar with microdermabrasion for its great exfoliating effects. Dermabrasion is a more intensive version and is a very effective way of treating facial scars. While microdermabrasion can be done by most beauty therapists, dermabrasion is more intensive and you’ll need to see a dermatologist.

Microneedling

Best for: Depressed scarring

The needles used in microneedling are attached to a device that looks somewhat like a pen. These needles prick the skin (which has been numbed first, don’t worry!) with the intention of promoting collagen production when the skin heals. Although it sounds scary, microneedling is safe and suitable for all skin types, but it may take several months of treatment to see the effects.

Lasers

Best for: Indented and hypertrophic, atrophic or keloid scarring

Lasers are best for treating more serious scarring. Vascular lasers and broadband light treatments are good for treating pigmentation issues caused by acne, while resurfacing lasers can be used to treat indented and atrophic scars. Although relatively rare, if you have hypertrophic or keloid scars from acne, vascular and/or resurfacing lasers can be used alongside cortisone (either topical or injected) to improve the appearance and texture of scarring.

The method for removing or reducing acne scarring that you choose should depend on the level of severity and the overall condition of your skin. If you’re in doubt about the treatment you need, speak to your beauty therapist about your options the next time you get a facial. If they think you need more specialist treatment, they may be able to recommend a medial cosmetologist.