Long after a pimple goes away, it can leave an unsightly mark in its wake. These stubborn spots can prove difficult to remove, but you do have some options. Working with a dermatologist can help determine the best treatment for your skin type.
Causes of Acne Spots
Pimples result from inflammation, which can inflict damage on the skin. These acne spots, officially coined post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH, form as a result of this inflammatory process. If you have lighter skin, they sometimes show up as red, pink or purple, while darker tones will usually have brown or black spots. Dermatologist Audrey Kunin, writing for her website DERMAdoctor, notes that many of these spots will fade away eventually, but it can take several months. While you might not have the ability to completely prevent their formation, resisting the urge to pick or pop pimples can reduce the risk of marks forming.
Importance of Sun Protection
If you have dark acne marks, you want to protect your face from excess sun exposure. The sun will only darken these spots, making them more noticeable. The American Academy of Dermatology, on its AcneNet website, recommends using an SPF of at least 30 and applying at least 20 minutes before you step outside. The AAD also explains that failing to protect your skin from the sun will make any treatments you undergo for PIH less effective.
Topical Treatments
Many topical treatments contain ingredients that can help lighten the PIH and even-out the skin tone. If you have brown spots, the bleaching agent hydroquinone might help. Dermatologists can prescribe products that contain up to 4 percent, but you can find weaker concentrations over-the-counter, up to 2 percent by law. The AAD cautions, however, to avoid products that do not list the concentration to reduce the risk of using a product that contains too much; this can lead to discoloration that's very difficult to treat.
Other topical agents include exfoliating agents like glycolic acid. Getting a prescription treatment that contains more than one lightening ingredient might offer better results than using over-the-counter products, notes the AAD.
Peels and Microdermabrasion
Aesthetic procedures like chemical peels and microdermabrasion might also assist with acne spots. These treatments help remove damaged skin and reveal newer layers underneath. Both of these treatments, however, require multiple sessions for optimal results and are probably not covered by insurance, meaning you will most likely pay for them yourself. The AAD notes you typically need between four and six sessions. Kunin believes peels are one of the best treatment options for acne spots.
Laser Therapy
In recent years, many different types of laser therapies have emerged for treating the skin, particularly for acne spots and scars. The AAD notes that in terms of acne spots, these treatments are most commonly used on patients with darker skin who have not received satisfactory results from less-aggressive treatments.
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