reduce acne marks - #20958
I am really frustrated with these acne marks that just won’t go away. I mean, I had this horrible breakout last month, and yeah, I'm aware of my skin issues, but these red marks are sticking around way longer than I expected. I tried using a bunch of different creams and even went for these fancy treatments but nothing seems to work for me. They all say they can help reduce acne marks, but so far, they’ve just been a waste of time and money, right? I don’t even know what to believe anymore. My friend swears by a certain product she used to help reduce acne marks, but her skin type is totally different from mine. I really just want to know the best way to reduce acne marks specifically for someone who has oily skin like me. Is there any kind of treatments or maybe even lifestyle changes that can help reduce acne marks faster? It just feels like this cycle won't end, and the more I stress about it, the more I feel like it's affecting my self-esteem. Has anyone had luck with anything that actually works to reduce acne marks? Help!
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Doctors' responses
Dealing with persistent acne marks can definitely be frustrating. When it comes to reducing them, especially for oily skin, a multifaceted approach can help. First, consider products with ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) such as glycolic or salicylic acid. These can accelerate skin cell turnover and fade marks. Using a product formulated for oily skin will prevent excess oiliness and help unclog pores. Retinoids are another option, as they promote collagen production, improving skin texture and reducing discoloration. Apply them at night, begin with a low concentration and increase as tolerated. Please note that strong active ingredients can increase sun sensitivity, so wearing broad-spectrum SPF daily is crucial.
Another helpful approach can be professional treatments. Procedures like chemical peels or laser therapy, evaluated and done by dermatologists, are often effective for treating acne marks. They work by removing the outer layer of skin and improving skin tone. But these need to be tailored to your specific skin type, and a dermatologist’s assessment is important.
For lifestyle, make sure to maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of water to support skin health. Including foods with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and low glycemic index may help in managing acne overall. Stress management through exercise or mindfulness techniques might also reduce flare-ups, as stress can exacerbate acne.
Keep in mind: avoid picking or squeezing spots, as this worsens pigmentation. And while considering new treatments, patch test first to avoid adverse reactions. Always consult with a dermatologist before starting new treatments, especially if previous products haven’t worked as expected, as they can provide good direction for your specific skin type and condition.
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