Scarring

Acne scars are caused by the body's inflammatory response to acne lesions. Treating acne early and not squeezing or picking acne constantly is the best way to prevent scars from occurring.

When the tissue suffers an injury the body will rush to the site to repair the damage. The body uses white blood cells and an array of inflammatory molecules that have the task of repairing tissue and fighting infection. The after effects of this type of repair may leave somewhat of a messy repair site in the form of fibrous scar tissue.

Scarring occurrence is different in different people, therefore, it is difficult to predict who will scar, how extensive or deep the scars will be, and how long the scars will last. It is also difficult to predict how successful acne treatments will be at preventing scars.

Treating acne early is the only sure method of preventing or limiting the extent of scars. If you have the tendency to scar with acne breakouts it may be beneficial for you to be under the care of a dermatologist.

Scarring can be reduced by following some easy steps:

• DO NOT pick your acne!
• Wash twice daily with a mild cleanser or soap
• Use alpha lipoic acid

Alpha lipoic acid is an antioxidant that is a component of the energy producing parts of cells. Alpha lipoic acid works by stimulating nutrient intake and removal of wastes. It breaks down the misformed collagen in acne scars and causes it to rebuild. This promotes repair to each and every skin cell.

• Seek the advice of a dermatologist
  

How do you know when to seek out a dermatologist?

• When the acne scars affect you psychologically or emotionally and inhibit your
  life.
• The severity of the scarring. Is the scarring disfiguring?
• Are you will to wait for your scars to fade over time?

It is important to figure out if any of the above questions affect you and if they do then a dermatologist will be able to help you to seek out the proper treatment.