Nearly 80% of people between 11 and 35 get acne. Of these, one in five develops serious scarring, which is hard to treat.
Acne and scarring also lead to more skin problems, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or post-acne hyperpigmentation (PAH). This is a condition in which skin cells react to damage or irritation by making extra melanin; hyperpigmentation shows up as tan, brown, dark brown, or even blue-gray patches and spots on the skin.
Acne and the various conditions it leads to may result in more serious problems, such as anxiety and depression.
In this article, we’ll learn some of the most effective treatments for both acne scarring and post-acne hyperpigmentation and the differences between the two conditions.
But first, what is PIH, and what causes it?
Causes of Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
While inflammation caused by picking pimples is one of the primary reasons for this condition, it isn’t the only cause of PIH. Psoriasis, eczema and impetigo, a bacterial skin infection that leads to sores over the body and the face, are other major causes.
Any condition that causes a laceration in the skin — such as a bug bite, burn, razor bump, rash, or allergic reaction — could also be a cause.
Inflammation caused by any of these triggers causes melanin cells to go into overdrive. These excessive pigment granules darken, discolor the wounded area, and stay long after the wound has healed.
Acne Scars Vs. PAH
While scarring caused by acne and PAH are related, they don’t look very similar.
Acne scars occur due to a loss of tissue when pimples are picked, causing either a pitted area or an overgrowth of tissue, leaving a raised scar.
Discoloration caused by hyperpigmentation, on the other hand, results in flat spots that aren’t depressed or raised. They are most commonly caused by the inflammation that occurs when acne is picked – resulting in noticeable patches of discoloration on the skin.
Is PAH permanent? Unlike certain acne scars, which require treatment, post-acne hyperpigmentation isn’t permanent.
How long does post-acne hyperpigmentation last? While they aren’t permanent, PAH scars can be quite hard to remove. Sometimes the spots could last as long as 6-12 months or even more. Even with the right treatment, deeper dermal PIH can take several years to fade.
Best Treatments For Acne Scars and Hyperpigmentation
Since the two conditions differ slightly, the treatments also have their differences.
Acne Scar Treatment
Acne scar removal is a long and arduous process that can take multiple sittings to fix. Fortunately, there are several methods that dermatologists have developed over the years to deal with the issue.
When choosing the proper treatment, there are some factors you should consider, such as your skin type, the severity of the scars, or how much time and money you’re willing to invest.
Let’s look at some of the best answers to how to get rid of acne scars.
Soft Tissue Fillers: This is perfect for anyone with indented scars. A dermatologist will inject collagen, dermal fillers or fat under the surface of your skin to smooth over and fill up scars. While this treatment is effective, the results are temporary, so several sittings may be required.
Skin Tightening: Dermatologists use radiofrequency to tighten the skin, making depressed scars less noticeable. These treatments require multiple appointments and also need aftercare — such as the use of sunscreen and moisturizers.
Dermabrasion: Best for severe scarring, dermabrasion is a deep treatment. A doctor removes the top layer of the skin with a device, removing all surface scars and making deeper scars appear less noticeable.
Injectables: A doctor injects corticosteroids directly into raised scars that can soften and flatten scars. These injections are given once every few weeks. Multiple sittings are required once every two to six weeks.
Microneedling: a treatment designed to boost collagen production in the skin. It’s one of the most affordable treatments. Several treatments are recommended.
Morpheus8: a combination of deep microneedling coupled with advanced radio-frequency treatment. It’s one of the most effective treatment options for post acne scars. 5-7 treatments, 4 weeks apart are recommended for the optimal results.
Scar surgery: This is a minor surgery that dermatologists perform to either lift the scar, making it less noticeable or break up the scar tissue. It is not an invasive surgery, but a dermatologist may numb the patient so they feel no pain.
So how much does an acne scar treatment cost?
The answer depends on the severity of the scars. The most expensive treatments include Morpheus8 which could cost between $900-$4500 and laser skin resurfacing, which costs anywhere between $750 and $3,500. Fillers cost between $350 to $3,000. Microneedling could cost anywhere from $250 to $800.
On the other hand, the cheapest treatments are home remedies, offered by over-the-counter and prescription ointments and serums. These could cost between $10-$100 but aren’t as effective as some medical treatments.
How much is acne scar removal, depending on your needs? Contact LA Beauty Skin Center to find out.
Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation Treatment
Like acne scar treatment, the best treatment for post-acne hyperpigmentation depends heavily on the severity of the discoloration and the amount of time and money you’re willing to invest.
Let’s look at some of the most popular PAH treatments.
Skin lighteners: Such as hydroquinone or azelaic acid, are available in some over-the-counter ointments. These substances block the enzyme responsible for melanin production and decrease inflammation, thereby lightening the skin.
Retinoids and steroids: Available by prescription only, topical retinoids can treat acne breakouts and help fade PAH discoloration. Retinoids increase skin cell turnover rates, leading to rapid exfoliation.
Chemical peels: A chemical peel that uses salicylic or glycolic acid to remove the top layer of skin cells is also effective in clearing out extra melanin.
Laser therapy: For deeper dermoid PIH, laser therapy similar to that used in acne scar removal may be recommended. It may require several appointments at a medical spa to get rid of.
IPL: Intense Light Therapy – one of the most effective treatments for the treatment of post-acne hyperpigmentation.
How to Get Rid of Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation
Sometimes symptoms caused by PAH go away on their own, but the scars require much time to fade. On the other hand, deeper PAH will require medical treatment, such as a chemical peel or IPL.
An aesthetic medical professional can recommend the proper hyperpigmentation treatment after a quick consultation, depending on how much you’re willing to invest.
How to Get Rid of Acne Scars
Over the years, skincare experts have developed several medications to control scarring caused by acne. Various treatments could be recommended depending on the severity of scarring or cost.
The options range between various home treatments and more intense medical procedures. What’s certain, however, is that acne scar removal treatment can be a long process that requires multiple sittings.
Conclusion
Both acne scars and post-acne hyperpigmentation are common skin conditions that can greatly affect a person’s self-confidence and image. However, the good news is that they are both treatable. For more information on the best acne scar treatments and how to treat post-acne hyperpigmentation, request an online appointment at LA Beauty Skin Center, and have an expert look into your case.