remove marks on face - #19628
I am super frustrated right now. A couple of weeks ago, I had a really bad breakout—like, the worst I’ve had in years! I tried to pop a couple, I know, I know, big mistake 🙄 but now I’m left with these awful red marks on my face that won’t go away. I keep reading about different ways to remove marks on face, but nothing seems to work! I tried those over-the-counter creams but all they did was dry my skin out. I also went to a dermatologist who recommended some prescription stuff but it’s been only a week and I still see no improvement. Should I go back to them or maybe try a different type of treatment?? I hear chemical peels can be good to remove marks on face like mine, but I'm worried about the recovery time and if it'll make things worse. Has anyone had good results with laser treatments? I’d love to hear about your experiences on how to remove marks on face, cuz right now I feel like hiding under a rock. Anyone have tips that really worked for them? I really just want my skin back to normal!
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Doctors' responses
Managing post-acne marks can be tricky, but here are some evidence-based strategies you might consider. First, it’s important to identify the type of marks you’re dealing with; red marks (post-inflammatory erythema) and dark marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) require slightly different approaches. You’ve mentioned trying over-the-counter creams; many of these contain ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or retinoids which can help with skin tone and texture over time, but can also be irritating. If dryness is an issue, ensure you’re using a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer and avoiding harsh cleansers that strip your skin. Prescription treatments—like retinoids or hydroquinone—are stronger but can take several weeks to months to show results, so don’t abandon them too quickly. Return to your dermatologist to discuss your progress and potential side effects. They might adjust your regimen or combine treatments for a better outcome. Chemical peels could help as well, particularly with superficial marks and improving skin texture; mild peels generally have minimal recovery time. It’s good to consult your dermatologist about the type of peel best suited for you, considering your skin type and sensitivity. As for laser treatments, they can be highly effective, especially for persistent marks; though, recovery time and cost can vary. Options like fractional laser therapy target deeper pigmentation and improve skin texture with minimal downtime compared to older techniques. Discuss with a dermatologist experienced in laser treatments, as results can be positive, but they should customize the session to your specific needs and expectations. Regardless of the method, sunscreen is crucial to prevent worsening of marks and protect sensitive skin while it’s healing. Finally, track your skin’s response to treatments and have patience—sometimes it takes a combination and time to see notable improvements.
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