AskDocDoc
/
/
/
best treatment for acne scars and dark spots
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 06M : 20S
background image
Click Here
background image
Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #20494
47 days ago
114

best treatment for acne scars and dark spots - #20494

Tanmay

I am really struggling with acne scarring and dark spots. I've had terrible breakouts since my teenage years, and even when my skin clears up, I’m left with these awful marks. I mean, some days I’m convinced that the best treatment for acne scars and dark spots is just covering my face with makeup and avoiding mirrors! I’ve tried a few over-the-counter creams and treatments, but they didn’t do much. Some friends recommended professional treatments, but I’m really unsure if they’d work for me or if they’re worth the money. I went to see a dermatologist last month who mentioned laser therapy might help for my dark spots but didn't really go into detail about what the best treatment for acne scars and dark spots actually involves. I’m curious if anyone here has had success with any specific procedures or topical treatments that really helped. My skin’s pretty sensitive, and I don’t want to make things worse. It’s just really frustrating, you know? I’ve been looking online for the best treatment for acne scars and dark spots, but there’s so much info that it’s overload. Anyone have personal experiences or tips?

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

For acne scars and dark spots, a multi-faceted approach is typically most effective, especially with sensitive skin involved. Managing these issues can involve both topical treatments and professional procedures, each tailored to your skin sensitivity and specific type of scarring or pigmentation. First, consider topical treatments, aiming for those with retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), like glycolic acid. These can promote cell turnover and help fade the dark spots and scars over time. Vitamin C serums are also excellent for tackling hyperpigmentation by lightening dark spots and providing antioxidants that support skin health. However, given your sensitive skin, patch testing is critical to ensure no adverse reactions.

Next, professional procedures can significantly enhance results. Laser therapy, as your dermatologist suggested, is known for effectively treating both acne scars and pigmentation. Various types like fractional CO2 lasers target deeper scars, while non-ablative lasers are gentle options for hyperpigmentation and surface issues. Chemical peels offered by professionals can also be tailored to sensitivity levels and focus on removing the top skin layers, fostering new, healthier skin growth.

Microdermabrasion and microneedling can be considered too; they reduce scarring by encouraging collagen production without major irritation. Keep in mind, results often come from combinations of treatments and can take several sessions. Crucially, consult with your dermatologist about all options, weighing benefits, risks, skin sensitivity, and costs. Incorporating daily sun protection with broad-spectrum SPF can prevent existing spots from darkening and protect against new pigmentation. Avoid trying too many treatments at once to give each a fair chance to work and prevent any adverse reactions. You may find a mix of professional treatments with at-home skincare works best for your particular needs without overwhelming sensitive skin.

16226 answered questions
86% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
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.


Related questions