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How to remove acne black marks?
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #11803
45 days ago
68

How to remove acne black marks? - #11803

Rashi

I am really struggling with my skin at the moment and I need to know how to remove acne black marks. A few months ago, I went through a bad breakout and now I’m left with these dark spots on my cheeks and forehead that just won't go away. It's seriously so frustrating because I never had to deal with this before! I tried a few over-the-counter creams, but they didn't seem to do much and I'm worried about aggravating my skin further. Like, I thought if I could just find out how to remove acne black marks, everything would be better. I read online about different treatments, like peels and lasers, but I'm not sure if those are worth it or even safe? One dermatologist recommended some sort of vitamin C serum, but honestly, I just feel lost in this sea of products and procedures. I feel like I need a clear plan or something. How to remove acne black marks without making my skin worse or spending a ton of money? Would love any advice or experiences anyone could share!

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Doctors’ responses

Acne marks, technically known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, can definitely be frustrating. Fortunately, there are effective strategies that you can integrate into your routine to help reduce their appearance. Let’s start with some topical treatments. Incorporating a vitamin C serum is a smart move, as it can help to brighten dark spots and even out skin tone. Apply it daily before moisturizing. Over-the-counter products with ingredients like niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, or glycolic acid may also be beneficial; these ingredients are known to help with hyperpigmentation. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, every single day to protect your skin from UV rays, which can darken spots further. Even on cloudy days, sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation. Another recommendation is over-the-counter retinol, a derivative of vitamin A that promotes faster skin cell turnover. Start this slowly, using it every third night and gradually increasing as your skin builds tolerance. For more stubborn marks, treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy can be effective, but these should be done by a qualified dermatologist. They can assess your skin type and recommend the safest and most appropriate option tailored to your condition. These treatments can be costlier, so weighing the benefits against budget constraints is reasonable.

Importantly, continue with caution around harsh products or excessive exfoliation. Such practices can irritate your skin and worsen the problem. Always default to a patch test when using a new product to avoid adverse reactions. If topicals aren’t providing the results you need, discuss with a dermatologist to consider prescriptions, such as hydroquinone. Additionally, maintaining a gentle skincare regimen will help support skin healing without causing further damage. Your routine should hydrate and protect, avoiding any potential triggers like heavy makeup or overly fragranced products. Remember, while it does take time, consistently following these tips can lead to visible improvements. If irritation or unexpected symptoms arise, stop use and consult a healthcare professional.

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