How To Treat Acne Scars
There are two ways you may choose to treat your acne scars. You may choose to use melanin-inhibiting products and slow down melanin to the surface of your skin, or you may select exfoliating products that remove dead skin cells and aid in skin cell turnover, thereby fading your scar in the process.
Melanin-Inhibiting Ingredients To Treat Acne Scars
Vitamin C: Vitamin C neutralizes and removes oxidants (free radicals) from the skin. Vitamin C interferes with the pigmentation process through tyrosinase inhibition of the melanin pigment pathway. This serum fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Also, it speeds up cell turnover and reveals new cells. Lastly, Vitamin C helps speed up the production of collagen and elastin.
Kojic acid: Kojic acid helps treat acne and fades acne scars on the skin. In addition, Kojic acid will inhibit the formation of an amino acid that produces melanin, the pigment that helps the skin make its color. In addition, we derive Kojic acid from fermented rice, which has antibacterial and anti-microbial properties. Lastly, Kojic acid is gentle on the skin and the best hydroquinone alternative.
Alpha arbutin: We derive alpha arbutin from the Bearberry plant, which works to prevent melanin formation. Also, alpha arbutin, like vitamin c, functions as a tyrosinase inhibitor to disrupt melanin formation, providing skin lightening and brightening effects. In addition, alpha arbutin is gentle on the skin, soothes irritated skin, and is excellent to use on sensitive skin. Lastly, alpha arbutin is comparable to hydroquinone and has the same lightning effect, but it is safer and a natural alternative.
Azelaic acid: Azelaic acid is a multi-functioning ingredient that treats skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and psoriasis and exfoliates the skin. Also, azelaic acid cleans out bacteria from the skin. We derive azelaic acid from barley, wheat, and rye. In addition, it is a tyrosinase inhibitor, which interferes with melanin production in the skin, revealing even-toned skin. Lastly, azelaic acid kills acne-causing bacteria and decreases the production of keratin. Keratin is a natural substance that can lead to the development of acne.
Resveratrol: Grape skin has resveratrol. Also, it is an antioxidant that protects the skin against oxidative stress and sun damage. Resveratrol is one of the most potent antioxidants because it is 95% effective.
Green tea extract: Green tea is choke-full of antioxidants and contains a compound called EGCG, which fights DNA damage from UV rays. Also, green tea is a potent ingredient that combats premature aging when you apply it topically in a serum form. Also, it has powerful antibacterial properties that help to fight acne. In addition, it contains Vitamin B2 and Vitamin E to help maintain collagen health. This calls for firmer-looking skin and supports new cell growth.
Most importantly, Green tea serum hydrates the skin intensely and balances moisture. Additionally, the caffeine we find in green tea helps to treat puffy eyes. Also, it treats dark circles and helps to brighten the skin under the eyes.
Exfoliating Ingredients To Use
Glycolic acid: Glycolic acid works by dissolving cellular glue and exfoliating or clearing away the top dead skin cells revealing newer skin cells. In addition, Glycolic acid goes deep into the dermis to stimulate collagen production and reduce wrinkles. Lastly, glycolic acid works faster because it is the smallest molecule penetrating deeper into the skin.
Salicylic acid: Obtainable from raspberries, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red grapes, salicylic acid finds application with combination skin (dry and oily skin) and as well, standalone oily skin – both of which are known to be prone to acne and breakouts. Aside from the exfoliation of the skin, it would treat the issue of breakouts by ensuring that the clogged pores are kept open and allowed to ‘breathe.’ In the same vein, this acid would build up the skin’s elasticity while keeping the collagen content in check.
Lactic acid: Lactic acid is a proven option for exfoliating dead skin cells from the skin surface, increasing cell turnover rate, and improving overall skin health. I recommend this remedy to those with acne scars, even though it can work with all skin types.
Benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide fades acne scars by exfoliating the skin and speeding the skin turnover to reveal newer skin cells.
Azelaic acid: Azelaic acid has both melanin-inhibiting and exfoliating properties. Its melanin-inhibiting property works by slowing down the melanin from reaching the skin’s surface. Also, it fades acne scars and hyperpigmentation. Also, it works as a powerful ingredient to exfoliate the skin. This action makes the skin look even-toned and radiant. Azelaic acid is best used for treating acne scars.
Treating Acne Scars
