Acne Scars Under The Skin

Jan 31, 2012

Lisa U.

Hello :)

I've been suffering with 'Adult Acne' around my chin and jaw line for a while now. I'm slowly getting that sorted but under the skin has red marks.

I've had this since the acne I suffered with in my teenage years, it looks like I have spots under the skin but there isn't one and there isn't any bumps.

Has anyone else suffered with this or have any advice on how to reduce redness?

I live in the UK by the way. Any help would be great. I would really like to improve it once and for all ha :(

Lisa x x x

Jan 31, 2012

Celeste P.

Hi Lisa!

You've described post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, the discoloration of skin due to inflammation. A lot of people get this as a result of acne, either in the form of redness or dark spots. Don't worry, it will heal eventually! It will definitely take time to clear up, sometimes weeks or months (or in my case, years).

The best thing to do is maintain clean skin. This will stop new acne from forming, and in turn, help you avoid scarring and hyperpigmentation.

You can do a few things to speed up the healing process:

- Exfoliate regularly (but not too much, as that will just aggravate your skin).

- Use a topical cream containing azelaic acid, kojic acid, glycolic acid, or hydroquinone. These ingredients are proven to lighten and even skin tone. Over the counter, these are usually called fading or brightening creams and gels. Don't bother with brightening face washes, as you just wash the main ingredients off of your face.

- Wear sunscreen.

To cover up the spots, use a good liquid concealer or medium coverage foundation that matches your skin tone and blend it in well. Cream concealers tend to look obvious on healing skin, so you'll want something lighter that will blend seamlessly onto your face.

It's tough to have clearer skin but still have to deal with hyperpigmentation. It really just takes time! This is just my advice from across the pond, you should consult with your dermatologist, and they can personalize treatment options for you! :)

Feb 2, 2012

Lisa U.

Ahh, I see. Thank you so much ha. I've been so fed up not knowing why the red patches won't heal. I'll have a look at those ingredients and see what happens :) thank you again xx

Feb 3, 2012

Lisa U.

Thank you both! I did a little research in to it last night and it's exactly what I have. I'm happy that I now know what it is! xx