5 Over-the-Counter Remedies for Healing Acne Scars at Home
Growing acne is a normal body response. It occurs when there is too much sebum production, clogging the pores. As a result, if the bacteria is stuck, it can trigger inflammation and infection, resulting in more acne.
Aside from making the skin feel bumpy, uneven, and reddish, acne also leaves gnarly scars that often take years to heal. Therefore, people who suffer from worse acne breakouts can have deeper scars. But what are over-the-counter remedies people can try? Here are some ideas.
1. Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that can help reduce inflammation and unclog pores. It has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to treat various skin conditions, and today, it is still one of the most popular ingredients in skin care products.
Salicylic acid is available in many forms, such as cleansers, gels, and creams. When used correctly, salicylic acid can help to reduce the appearance of acne and other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema. It can also reduce the appearance of dark spots and even improve skin tone.
2. Retinoids
Retinoids are a group of vitamin A derivatives commonly used to treat various skin conditions, including acne, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Retinoids can help reduce wrinkles, improve skin tone, and reduce the appearance of dark spots.
Retinoids are available in both over-the-counter and prescription forms. The former are typically weaker than prescription retinoids and are best used for mild skin issues like acne. But the latter is more powerful and treats more severe skin issues like wrinkles and sun damage.
3. Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a group of exfoliating acids that can help improve the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of ageing. AHAs can also help reduce the appearance of acne scarring and other blemishes.
AHAs can be found in many over-the-counter skin care products, including facial cleansers, serums, and moisturisers. People can also use them in chemical peels to treat more severe skin issues like deeper scars. As a result, they can appear less damaged.
4. Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk and other natural sources. It is used in many skincare products, including facial cleansers, exfoliators, and moisturisers, as it promotes healthy and glowing skin.
Lactic acid breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be removed more easily. It also helps to increase cell turnover, which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of ageing.
5. Silicone Dressings
Silicone dressings are wound dressings designed to provide a protective barrier against infection. They are made from a combination of silicone, elastomers, and other materials and are used to protect wounds from external contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, and dirt.
Silicone dressings are often used to treat wounds that are difficult to heal, such as those caused by burns, ulcers, and other skin conditions. They help to keep the wound clean and promote faster healing.
Conclusion
Acne scars can become a problem after an acne breakout. While they may not be as painful or irritating as an active acne breakout, they can still cause distress and insecurity. Acne scars result from the body’s natural healing process after a breakout.
Various treatments are available to help reduce the appearance of acne scars. However, before trying any of them, consult an expert, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution for acne scar reduction. Better be safe than sorry.
Laserase Medical Aesthetics is a skincare clinic in Belfast. We specialise in various cosmetic procedures, from vein removal to nose job services, to ensure our clients head out of the clinic feeling good about themselves without changing too much. Learn more about stretch mark removal in Belfast by browsing our website today.