how to remove acne marks - #20374
I am struggling with these terrible acne marks on my face and just don’t know how to remove acne marks! I got really bad acne during high school, like really bad, and now that I'm in college, the acne has mostly cleared up, but I’m left with these dark spots that just won't budge. I’ve tried over-the-counter creams, but they don’t seem to help much. Like, I used this one with hydroquinone or something, but still, how do I remove acne marks? I get so self-conscious about my skin in class or when hanging out with friends. I even tried some natural remedies like lemon juice — yikes, that didn’t end well because it just irritated my skin more! I was wondering if anyone has had luck with chemical peels or laser treatments? Are they really effective in how to remove acne marks? And what about things like vitamin C serums? I don’t want to spend a ton of money on something that might not even work. Just feeling frustrated, and any advice would really help me figure out how to remove acne marks for good!
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Doctors' responses
While those post-acne marks can be frustrating, there are several effective strategies available that might help. Chemical peels and laser treatments do, indeed, show promising results for reducing acne scars. These treatments can effectively resurface the skin and promote collagen production, leading to smoother skin over time. However, they can be expensive, so it’s often worth consulting with a dermatologist to explore whether these options suit your skin type and budget. For a more affordable approach, a consistent skincare routine incorporating topical agents known to effectively brighten skin and reduce scarring might be an option. Retinoids, such as tretinoin creams, can promote cell turnover and improve texture. Vitamin C serums can help with pigment lightening and are often better tolerated than hydroquinone on sensitive skin. Consistency and patience are essential as results typically develop over several months. Be cautious with natural remedies like lemon juice since they can irritate your skin and potentially worsen dark spots. Always apply sunscreen daily, as sun exposure can darken scars further, undermining the progress of any treatment. If over-the-counter treatments have not shown sufficient improvement, a dermatologist can offer prescription-strength options or guide you through treatment combinations tailored to your skin. Remember, despite frustrations, tackle treatments on a reliable timeline and avoid self-sabotaging with harsh or unproven methods. Patience and tailored care are key to addressing these marks responsibly.
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