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best medicine for acne scars
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #12629
54 days ago
71

best medicine for acne scars - #12629

Fatima

I am really struggling with some acne scars that have been just hanging around for way too long. I had a pretty intense breakout a few months back, like the worst of my life, and now my skin has these dark marks and uneven texture, I mean, it's frustrating! I tried a couple of over-the-counter creams, but honestly, I can’t tell if they’re working at all! I asked my friends about what they think is the best medicine for acne scars, but everyone seems to have a different opinion. Some say to try those expensive serums, while others mention things like microneedling! I even saw 'best medicine for acne scars' pop up in a few ads, but who knows if those are legit. I went to my dermatologist and got recommendations but I'm still confused. I keep thinking about what really is the best medicine for acne scars out there, like should I go the natural route or stick with prescription topical treatments? I’m kinda on a budget, too, you know? Would love any suggestions on the best medicine for acne scars that's both effective and not gonna break the bank. Have any of you guys found something that worked wonders for you?

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Doctors’ responses

When dealing with acne scars, especially if the skin is still healing from a breakout, it’s important to focus on treatments backed by evidence. Topical treatments like retinoids (e.g., tretinoin) are often recommended because they speed up cell turnover and help with both texture and pigmentation. You might see these in prescription form or some over-the-counter formulations. They’re generally effective, but consistency is key, and it can take several weeks or even a few months to see significant improvement. Exfoliating agents like glycolic acid or salicylic acid can also help, as they aid in removing the top layer of skin, potentially improving both texture and tone. If you can find combination products that include these ingredients, they might provide more comprehensive results. On the budget side, these acids are often found in affordable drugstore brands too. For the more intense treatments you mentioned like microneedling, they can be beneficial but usually are done in-office due to the precision required to avoid potential skin damage. Costs can add up, but sometimes clinics offer promotional pricing. Natural routes like aloe vera or vitamin C serums can support healing and pigmentation but aren’t likely to provide drastic changes alone. Sunscreen is an absolute must, as UV exposure can worsen pigmentation, and this is one area you shouldn’t skimp on. Finally, if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, stick with evidence-supported actives from reputable skincare brands rather than splurging on ads’ hyped products without clear evidence. Since you’ve visited a dermatologist already, maybe you could follow up on their recommendations with specific questions about affordable options or samples they might offer for you to try without a big upfront investment.

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