DEFINITION

Acne Scarring is visible markings, lumps or indentations on the skin's surface resulting from scar tissue which has formed as part of the healing process where acne has previously damaged the original skin and/or hair follicle.

DESCRIPTION

ACNE SCARS
There are three main types of scars caused by Acne.
1) ICEPICK PORE SCARS
These are large, deep scars with visible open pores that look as if the skin has been jabbed with a thin, sharp instrument. This scar is usually caused by a deep pimple or cyst that has destroyed the hair follicle as the infection moved to the surface of the skin.
2) ACNE PIT SCARS
These scars are indented and are due to pimples or cysts that have damaged the skin and formed scar tissue. The scar has a slightly sunken or depressed appearance.
3) RAISED SCARS
When several large cysts have clumped together, scar tissue forms which can create a lumpy mass of raised tissue on the skin's surface. These are known as raised scars.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Avoiding picking and squeezing pimples is the best way to prevent and reduce the severity of Acne Scarring. There are a number of techniques which can help to reduce the visible signs of scarring. A Beauty Therapist will often use techniques such as a glycolic peels and special creams to help soften the scar tissue and improve the texture of the skin. A cosmetic surgeon can also offer a number of options to improve the appearance of scarring e.g., dermabrasion, laser resurfacing or collagen injections. Vitamins A, E and zinc may help to improve scarring. These nutrients can be taken internally and moisturising creams are available which contain Vitamins A and E.

PHARMACIST'S ADVICE

Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
1) Follow the Diet Hints.
2) Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of fresh water a day. This helps prevent dehydration and constipation that can be associated with acne. Water is thought to help with the cleansing of the body.
3) Cleanse the skin thoroughly with a suitable antiseptic cleanser. Your Pharmacist may recommend a medicated Acne product to be applied after cleansing the skin. Ask your Pharmacist for advice. There are many brands and are available as a soap, liquid or a foam. Always pat the affected area dry rather than vigorously rubbing.
4) Include yoghurt or some acidophilus in the diet. Acidophilus can be useful in establishing a healthy internal flora and promoting the bowels to eliminate properly.
5) Watch for any food or environmental allergens which may be triggering the Acne.
6) Some cosmetic products may aggravate the condition, especially those that contain certain ingredients such as isopropyl myristate. Any compounds which are greasy should also be avoided.
7) If the diet is inadequate consider some supplements.
8) Apply topical preparations to the area involved, not just to individual lesions.
9) Sunlight may aggravate irritation caused by topical applications (i.e. retinoids), therefore these need to be applied at night.
10) Ask your Pharmacist for advice on creams to prevent scarring.

VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS

Vitamins may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate. Managing acne may help to prevent scarring.
- Vitamin A and zinc may help in the improvement of acne and scarring. Foods such as carrots and yellow vegetables (high in vitamin A) and pumpkin seeds (high in zinc) may be included in the diet.
- Vitamin B6 and folic acid may aid in acne related to menstrual disfunction.
- An antioxidant or multivitamin may help if the diet is high in refined foods.
- Vitamin B2 supplementation may aid in acne rosacea.
- It is important to eliminate lymphatic congestion. Echinacea can be taken as a lymphatic herb or fresh lemon juice in water will also help clear lymphatic congestion.
- Rose hip oil which is high in vitamin C may aid in the healing of scars.

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