What Can You Do to Avoid Acne Scarring?

If you have acne-prone skin, you may notice that the condition is likely to flare up a lot during the summer. When the weather is warm—as happened over the summer—acne breakouts tend to get worse. That’s because the high temperatures and humidity ramp up the skin’s production of oil and sweat, which can stick to the surface and lead to blocked pores. There’s also the added friction from damp hair and clothing, which is likely to irritate the skin. Although acne is a fairly harmless condition that’s usually just uncomfortable and embarrassing, it can leave some lasting marks on the skin when inflammation occurs in the blemishes and pores rupture. The skin attempts to rebuild the damaged areas, but can sometimes produce too much or too little collagen, causing scars to form. A combination of treatments for acne from Albuquerque NM’s The Spa @ Western Dermatology Consultants may be the best way of managing the symptoms and reducing prominent scars to create a more even complexion. 

However, the best way of treating acne scars is by preventing them from occurring in the first place. It helps to be aware of and avoid certain habits that make scars more likely. 

• Wear Sunscreen

Even if you’re afraid it will make your acne worse, sunscreen is a necessity if you’re trying to keep your skin clear. Not only do acne medications make your skin more prone to sun damage to begin with, but the sun exposure is more likely to delay healing and cause discoloration, making your scars more pronounced. 

• Avoid Heavy Makeup 

We often use heavy foundation and cover-up to disguise acne, but if the pores become blocked, it can cause irritation and worsen scars. 

• Don’t Pick at Your Skin

Though it might be tempting, don’t pop, pick, scratch or squeeze your skin. This is likely to spread bacteria and cause further damage, resulting in inflammation and potential scarring. Try to allow your skin to heal naturally. If acne lesions are large, deep, painful, and lasting, contact us to help.

Find out more about effective treatments for acne to restore more even and clear skin in Albuquerque, NM, from Western Dermatology Consultants. Give us a call at 505-855-9267 or submit a contact form to request a consultation if you’re interested in learning more.