how to remove body acne scars - #20275
I am dealing with these really annoying body acne scars on my back and shoulders, and it’s seriously making me feel self-conscious. Like, I tried so many products, but nothing seems to work! I had this awful breakout a few months ago after a long trip, and now I’m left with all these marks that just won’t fade. I didn’t use sunscreen, thinking I could just tan a little, but now I’m regretting those decisions big time! I keep searching for ways on how to remove body acne scars but end up feeling overwhelmed by all the options. I’ve seen some suggestions about chemical peels and microneedling, but those feel a bit scary, right? Are there any home remedies or treatments you guys recommend for how to remove body acne scars that are actually effective? Like, I want something that doesn’t take forever and isn’t crazy expensive. Another thing, I've heard about some creams with retinol or vitamin C, but do they really help with body acne scars or are they more of a face thing? Just feeling kinda lost and any help would be super appreciated!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Addressing body acne scars can indeed be frustrating, but there are several options to consider based on their severity and your comfort levels. Starting with over-the-counter treatments, creams with retinol and vitamin C can be useful, and they’re not limited to the face. They work by promoting cell turnover and improving skin texture, which can gradually reduce the visibility of scars. Apply a retinol cream at night, as it makes skin more sensitive to sunlight, and a vitamin C serum during the day, ensuring you follow up with sunscreen to prevent further hyperpigmentation. For a more intensive at-home approach, chemical exfoliants containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can also be beneficial, helping to slough off dead skin cells and promote new skin growth. It’s important to start slow to avoid irritation, perhaps once a week initially, then gradually increase as your skin builds tolerance. Regarding professional treatments like chemical peels or microneedling, they can indeed be effective but do have some costs and require multiple sessions. If you’re considering these, consult a dermatologist to conduct a proper assessment of your skin and provide tailored advice on the most effective intervention. Finally, maintaining good skincare habits by keeping the area clean and moisturized, wearing non-comedogenic products, and protecting the skin from the sun is essential to prevent further scarring. If self-care methods do not seem effective after a consistent trial, professional advice might be the next step to explore. Always ensure any new treatment fits within your lifestyle and skin needs – everyone’s skin reacts differently, so patience and gradual adjustments are key.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.