9 best ingredients for acne scars that bring spellbinding results
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Acne scars look good to no one. But with these best ingredients for acne scars, you’ll be at peace!
Do you ever look in the mirror and see those pesky acne scars staring right back at you? You wish there was a magical skincare ingredient that would make them go away!
Well, wishes do come true because I have the perfect solution for your acne scar woes.
Acne scars can be an annoying reminder that sometimes it takes forever to go away, but lucky for you that I am here!
After plenty of trial and error, I have narrowed down on 9 best skincare ingredients that are sure to bring some spellbinding results and keep skin looking fabulously smooth and clear. Read on friends as we dive into this enchanting journey of discovering these magical skincare ingredients!
What are acne scars? Why do they appear?
Put simply, acne scars are the remnants of a blemish or pimple once it has cleared up. These marks occur when our body produces excessive collagen as it attempts to mend the damage caused by an inflamed spot. Acne scarring can be observed in various shapes and forms – from uneven discoloration to indentations or raised bumps on the skin’s surface.
When a pore becomes clogged with oil and dead skin cells, it can become inflamed and may eventually rupture. This can cause the surrounding skin to become damaged, leading to the formation of a scar. Yep, not so pleasing, but your skin’s gotta do what it’s gotta do!
Different types of acne scars
There are two types of acne scars: Atrophic scars and Hypertrophic scars. Atrophic scars are caused by a loss of collagen and are typically characterized by indentations in the skin. Examples of atrophic scars include
- Ice pick: Commonly seen on areas with thinner skin, such as upper cheeks or forehead, and are one of the most common intended acne scars you’ll see. But unfortunately, they are pretty challenging to heal as well.
- Boxcar: It is a broad depression with steep edges into the skin and is usually seen near the lower cheek and jawline.
- Rolling scars: This type of scar can be generally characterized by a shallow depressed area filled with epidermis cells. You can commonly find them around the jawline or upper cheeks since our skin is thicker.
Hypertrophic scars are caused by an overproduction of collagen and are typically characterized by raised bumps on the skin. Keloid scars are a specific type of hypertrophic scar that can extend beyond the original injury site.
- Keloid scars: It is a big raised acne scar commonly found on the shoulder, back, chest, and jawline. And they are pretty painful and itchy. When skin is injured, scar tissue is formed over the wound to repair and protect the injury.
Now that you know categorize your scars into a type, I bet it will be much easier for you to choose the best ingredient for acne scars. Let’s get going!
best ingredients for acne scars
1. azelaic acid
If this is not one of the best ingredients for acne scars, idk what is. This over-the-counter treatment works wonders on acne scars, thanks to its regenerative properties that help rebuild the structure of damaged skin cells. (This study shows it all)
Along with evening out the skin tone, it can also yield other benefits like calming inflammation and redness. I think this little bottle of magic is what you need next time you’re ready to exile those pesky acne scars and free yourself from their grasp!
[ 10 Finest The Ordinary products for acne scars that are mystical ]
2. Retinol
We cannot really let collagen production slide by without a mention of retinol. Yes, from the talks, it may seem like that it only vanishes signs of aging, but that’s not just it.
It’s a vitamin A derivative that helps that works by stimulating cell turnover within your skin and promoting collagen production. This directly helps to firm and re-plump up the skin while evening out its texture. (It’s confirmed!)
And if you couldn’t already tell, everything above aids in reducing acne scarring, dark spots, sun damage, and of course, hyperpigmentation. What’s not to love?
3. BHAs like salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is kicking acne scars to the curb! Known for its ability to exfoliate and retain moisture, it’s the perfect solution for improving skin texture and complexion. This remarkable acid helps by effectively removing dead skin cells as well as cleansing clogged pores from dirt, oil, and other impurities that cause breakouts.
It can be used in mild concentrations for regular maintenance of your skin or more intense doses for when you’re experiencing deep-rooted issues like scarring.
According to this study, salicylic acid is one of the best-peeling agents for the treatment of acne scars. Do you need more proof?
[ What are the best CeraVe cleansers for acne? ]
4. AHAs like glycolic acid & lactic acid
If you’re looking for a product to help with those pesky acne scars, reach for AHAs like glycolic acid and lactic acid! These magical ingredients are well-known for their brightening and scar-reducing powers. (Check the verified study!)
AHAs are chemical exfoliants, meaning they dissolve the glue between skin cells so that the top layer of dead skin can slough off; in turn, this top layer of old-looking skin is replaced by new, vibrant cells.
Not only will AHA use result in smoother skin, but it can also help reduce inflammation and lighten dark spots. For an extra bump, use products formulated specifically to target acne scarring – your skin won’t be mad at you…trust me!
[ Don’t know how to use glycolic acid in your skincare regime? Here’s the best guide! ]
5. rosehip oil
Believe it or not but rosehip oil have been actually proven to be an excellent way to enhance the appearance of acne scars and blemishes (refer to this study).
Yep, it is jammed with vitamins and essential fatty acids and is a rich source of vitamin C which we all know works marvels for skin pigmentation, discoloration, and collagen production. Put simply: if you’re ready to make an acne comeback, rosehip oil is the key!
6. vitamin C
Vitamin C is an amazing choice when it comes to acne scars – it helps brighten and even out your complexion while also reducing inflammation and redness. It’s a superhero ingredient that really packs a punch!
Not only does Vitamin C help boost collagen production and reduce the appearance of acne scars, especially atrophic ones, but it can also help protect your skin from free radical damage too. (Refer to the study)
In short, adding a daily dose of Vitamin C to your skincare routine can go a long way toward nourishing and restoring your beautiful skin!
7. calcium bentonite clay
When it comes to healing and reducing the appearance of acne scars, calcium bentonite clay is nothing short of a miracle worker. Not only does it help draw out excess oil from your skin’s surface, eliminating blemishes at their source, but it helps to slough off dead skin cells and encourage cell turnover for more glowing skin.
This natural clay also works its magic on existing acne scarring by encouraging collagen production, which leads to firmer and smoother skin. Plus, you can get this natural wonder ingredient all over the internet at greatly affordable prices.
Here’s a quick review of how to use it.
8. alpha arbutin
Not for the pitted acne scars, but alpha arbutin is an excellent skin-lightening ingredient that is often used to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation (it has been established). It works by inhibiting the production of melanin (the pigment that gives color to the skin).
It can help to lighten and even out the skin tone, which can make your acne scars so much less noticeable. Besides, how can you say no to its antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the skin from further damage?
9. niacinamide
I can bet that you cannot hear this name for the first time today. It is trouncing the beauty industry like anything; from skincare to makeup, it is everywhere!
But is this the best ingredient for acne scars? Not really! But hear me out.
It may not treat active acne scars, but you cannot beat its formulation for post-acne hyperpigmentation and averting future acne breakouts in the long run (I’ve got a study for this, too!). Not only that, it gives an instant boost of hydration, controls excess sebum, and gives a radiant, glowing complexion.
I mean, we can agree that it indeed is a nice to have ingredient for acne scars.
wrapping up the best ingredients for acne scars
I know acne scars are not the thing to be loved and cherished. Nobody really likes them. Which is why there are a tons of skincare products and ingredients that companies promote that may not entirely work.
But with these stunning ingredients at play, I’m sure you’ll be ready to bid them adieu for good!
related articles to best ingredients for acne scars
- How to get rid of Acne Scars: 5 Legit home remedies that actually work!
- 10 Best The Ordinary products for acne scars that are magical
- 13 BEST Drugstore Acne Scar Products that’ll Definitely Help
