Can Facials Get Rid of Acne Marks?
Acne marks are technically known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a normal part of the skin’s inflammatory process, according to SkinCarePhysicians.com. Acne marks are not permanent, but they can take up to two years to fade away on their own.
Acne marks are technically known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a normal part of the skin’s inflammatory process, according to SkinCarePhysicians.com. Acne marks are not permanent, but they can take up to two years to fade away on their own. Regardless of treatment used, be sure to wear sunscreen as the sun can darken the marks and cause them to last longer; some treatments can make the skin photosensitive, as well. To help speed up the skin’s natural process, you can temper acne marks with facial treatments.
Chemical Peels
SkinCarePhysicians.com recommends a series of light chemical peels to get rid of acne marks. Chemical peels use an acid to remove layers of skin. The peeling reveals new skin underneath and removes layers of the acne mark. Although chemical peels are available over-the-counter, AcneNet recommends using a professional to ensure the proper selection of acid. The wrong acid or application of the chemical peel could irritate the skin, deepening the acne mark.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps boost the skin’s repair and renewal process. According to the Vitamins & Nutrition Center, vitamin E also inhibits oxidization of fats and the formation of free radicals thus preventing skin cell damage. Vitamin E comes in many forms such as capsules, liquids and as an active ingredient in moisturizers and creams. You can apply it to the entire face or use it as a spot treatment twice a day until the acne mark has faded.
Pineapple
A fresh pineapple facial may help to get rid of acne marks. It is full of vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and promote tissue growth. It also contains ascorbic acid, which provides a gentle exfoliation, imparts a brightening effect and helps to fade acne marks. Puree some fresh pineapple, then apply the puree and leave on for 10 to 15 minutes. This facial can be done once a day.
Spot Treatments
Bleaching creams are available to lighten acne marks, though they are typically only applied to the mark itself versus the whole face. When purchasing a bleaching cream over-the-counter, SkinCarePhysicians.com recommends looking for one that specifically calls out 2 percent hydroquinone as an active ingredient.