We’ve all been there. Your blemish has finally disappeared, but now a red, pink or brown mark has been left in its place. While these spots can be especially frustrating to deal with - and can seem to linger for months - visibly fading the look of post-blemish marks is possible with a little patience and a few targeted products.
And it’s not as hard as you may think.
We turned to our Research & Development team to get the inside scoop on how to handle these marks and scars, from prevention to everyday care. Read on for our step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Identify The Problem
Let’s start with the good news. Most of what people think is acne scarring really isn’t - it’s actually just hyperpigmentation or erythema (superficial red or brown spots on the skin).
These areas of discoloration are not permanent. The cause of these pesky, post-pimple spots? This is typically from an overproduction of pigment due to inflammation. While these spots may be discouraging at first, they will fade on their own in 3-6 months. There are also ways to help visibly fade their look sooner.
That said, true acne scars are a bit of a different story. Scars, which are either ‘craters’ or raised, are permanent and difficult to treat without more intense procedures from a dermatologist (like laser). However, there are ways to harness the power of natural ingredients to visibly improve the look and feel of atrophic scars (the crater type).
Step 2: Targeted Care
Both Vitamin C and Vitamin A (Retinol) are prized for helping to calm, sooth, and visibly renew stressed-looking skin. Luckily, our multi-tasking Retinoic Nutrient Face Oil is powered with natural sources of both - at high concentrations for maximum results. This formula provides complete skin nourishment for healthy-looking, radiant skin. Key ingredients include:
- Apricot Seed Oil (a natural source of Vitamin C) to brighten overall complexion, and offers Lycopene to help visibly fade the look of dark spots.
- Rosehip Seed Oil (a natural source of Vitamin A) to help visibly renew the skin's surface and fade the look of discoloration, while minimizing the look of visible signs of aging.
Regenerating Cleanser
Exfoliating your skin at least 1-2 times per week with a gentle exfoliant is also an essential step to remove the dead layer of skin on the surface and help keep pores looking clear. Our Regenerating Cleanser will transform your skin with both physical and enzymatic cleansing. Key ingredients include:
- Pomegranate Enzymes to provide enzymatic exfoliation, gently lifting dull surface cells to visibly fade the look of spots.
- White Willow Bark (a natural BHA and source of salicylic acid) to help refine pores and clear buildup for healthier-looking, glowing skin.
Hydrating Floral Essence
Just like the rest of your skin, scar tissue becomes less stretchy (and even more itchy) when it’s not properly hydrated. For acne scars in particular, use Hydrating Floral Essence as an extra boost of moisture with your morning routine - as well as anytime throughout the day. Key natural ingredient:
- Dual Weight Hyaluronic Acid infuses skin with intense hydration as well as plumping effects to visibly smooth the look of uneven texture.
Step 3: A Few Lifestyle Tips
Always wear sunscreen
Since scar tissue is more prone to hyperpigmentation from the sun, wearing sunscreen can help shade your new scar or mark and keep it from darkening. Make it a consistent part of your routine every day..
Leave your skin alone
This isn’t news to anyone, but we feel it bears repeating: avoid picking at blemishes. Picking at your blemishes leads to secondary infection or more inflammation, both of which lead to an increased risk of scarring.
And of course, treat skin with extra TLC
Consistency is key. A thoughtful skincare ritual helps keep skin looking clear and balanced; for active or persistent acne, consult a dermatologist. If you need help completing your skincare regimen, contact our Skincare Concierge to customize the perfect regimen tailored to your specific needs.