Acne is one of those annoying skin problems that can affect people of all ages and skin types at any time of year. And, as luck would have it, it can occasionally leave scars. Even the smallest breakouts can leave a visible mark on women of color, whose skin can be highly melanated, and breakouts can result in residual red or brown acne scars on those with lighter complexions. While there are numerous topical acne creams, serums, cleansers, and treatments (both over-the-counter and prescribed) that can help with acne scars, facials are one of the most effective ways to rejuvenate the skin, fade blemishes, and permanently eliminate pigmentation and texture issues.
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First and foremost, don't be discouraged if you're still dealing with breakout marks. The majority of acne scarring is actually post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (brown or red spots) rather than a change in skin texture. When the body sends white blood cells and collagen to repair the acne scar, it also sends melanin, which results in a hyperpigmented scar. That's when your favorite esthetician steps in.
"Facials focus on opening the pores by thoroughly cleansing the skin and exfoliating with the appropriate product to help remove dead skin," explains Neda Taghavi, Mediterranean Beauty Esthetician. "Facials help with acne scarring by cleaning the skin thoroughly and removing all impurities, resulting in brighter, more even, and smoother skin."
Simply put, acne scars are the result of the skin injury caused by the acne lesion. "Inflammation in the skin activates pigment cells to produce melanin, which is a protective act that leaves a dark spot in place of the inflammation," explains Sofie Pavitt, a licensed esthetician and acne specialist. "Alternatively, if the infected acne lesion is picked at or is a very large type of pimple (such as a cyst or nodule), it can disrupt the cellular structure of the skin, resulting in a textural scar."
If you're having trouble getting rid of acne scars, whether textured or pigmented, keep reading for the best esthetician-recommended treatments to help your skin look its best.
How Do Facials Help Acne Scars?
According to Hailey Cochran, esthetician at Beverly Hills, facials can "benefit the skin with a deep cleanse, professional exfoliation, proper extractions, and targeted ingredients used to combat specific concerns, such as acne scars."
Professional exfoliation (dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, and peels), steam, and extractions, can work wonders on non-inflammatory acne scars and prevent more severe acne. If your acne is severe (such as cystic acne), the expert recommends seeing an esthetician every two weeks for extractions and professional exfoliation until the inflammation has subsided. Once your acne is under control, or if you have only minor acne, you can space your treatments out monthly and stick to an at-home regimen.
Consequently, you should be aware that acne scars and pigmentation can take time to clear up and require follow-up.
The Best Facials For Acne Scars
Chemical Peels For Acne Scars
Chemical peels are great for fine lines, dryness, and safe for many types of skin, but are particularly adept at minimizing acne scars. They are exfoliating treatments that use various concentrations of natural acids to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. Your esthetician will choose the appropriate peel (superficial, medium, or deep) for you based on your skin condition and type, and will avoid using any acids that are risky (meaning too strong) for your skin tone.
Superficial peels, also known as light peels, are the mildest type of peel. [Superficial peels] remove the top layer of dead skin, giving your skin a brighter, more even appearance. They can be used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as sun damage, mild acne scarring, age spots, and dry or flaky skin.
Medium peels penetrate deeper into the skin and can be used to treat acne, pigmentation, and wrinkles. They are known to stimulate collagen production to tighten and firm the skin. Deep peels are the most powerful chemical peels available, with higher potency active ingredients used to achieve the most dramatic results for pigmented skin.
Oxygen Facial For Acne Scars
A machine will spray a hydrating, soothing serum onto the skin in micro droplets for deep penetration, followed by an infusion of pure oxygen. [Oxygen facials] are anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, making them suitable for all skin types, but especially sensitive skin.
HydraFacial For Acne Scars
This type of facial employs a machine that uses suction to apply hydration and exfoliating serums to your skin. The machine's nozzle pushes the serum into the skin while sucking away the leftover fluid, dragging dirt and dead skin with it. HydraFacial is recommended for the machine's abrasive tip, which effectively addresses texture and uneven skin — ideal for all skin types and conditions.
Microdermabrasion For Acne Scars
Used to exfoliate the skin at a surface level, microdermabrasion facials smooth out the texture, revealing a brighter, more even complexion. This noninvasive treatment is ideal for non-inflamed acne and textured skin, as it uses pressurized jets to scour the skin with micronized crystals to remove dry, dead skin cells. Please keep in mind that your skin may be slightly pink after the facial. You can get the treatment at the office of your dermatologist or esthetician.
Are These Facials Safe For Everyone?
Although facials can be beneficial for all skin types, there are a few exceptions, according to experts. Most facials are safe and beneficial for people with darker skin tones. More invasive treatments, such as lasers and deep peels, should be avoided. Similarly, patients suffering from rosacea, severe acne, or extremely sensitive skin should avoid abrasive physical exfoliation such as microdermabrasion and the HydraFacial.
What Post-Facial Routine Should I Follow?
Treating the scarring without addressing the root cause of your breakouts is like washing your car when it’s raining outside. Which is why after your facial you will really want to fine tune your at-home regime to minimize further scarring — which of course includes SPF.
In addition to monthly facials, some expert recommends a daily gentle cleanser, a chemical exfoliator two to three times a week, a vitamin C serum every morning, and retinol two to five times a week to keep acne at bay.
The most important thing to understand is that acne scarring can take time to heal. Facials will help significantly but it is more of a three-prong approach: using the right products at home, allowing time for the skin to heal, and getting regular facials. And if you experience another breakout or acne scar, resist the temptation to pick at it and instead book another appointment with your favorite skin expert.
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Our Spa’s Natural Treatments
Following the topic “Giving The Best Facials for Acne,” there are excellent solutions for your skin’s requirements available here.
The Mediterranean-Beauty Day Spa will greet you with a complimentary consultation and skin analysis system. Following the identification of your condition, you will be served with the best quality services suitable for your face skin. Some cases, however, require medical or dermatologist attention and are not our part of the role.
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