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How to Repair Acne Scars

Getting rid of acne scars is a concern for anyone who has
dealt with a bout of acne. In cases where the acne has
cleared and the subsequent scarring is a persistent
problem, there is no overnight treatment for repairing the
scars. There are, however, a number of treatments that
diminish the look of acne scars and can repair the scars
altogether. Microdermabrasion and topical products are
just two of the many effective scar-reducing therapies.

How to Repair Acne Scars

1. Determine if you have a severe or mild case of acne. Determining the severity of your acne will help you decide which treatment will be best for treating your acne scars. Internal factors such as overactive hormones may result in more severe cases of acne, thus causing deeper scars. Mild cases of acne may simply be a reaction to a product or food item and may cause less serious scarring.

2. Maintain a healthy diet. Drink less soda and drink more water. Consume less "junk food," and eat more fruits and vegetables. These actions will help decrease the likelihood of an acne flare-up. Healthy habits will also encourage skin cell reproduction in your body so that your skin can repair itself more rapidly.

3. Locate a reputable dermatologist or spa salon in your area and schedule a skin consultation with a licensed dermatologist or esthetician. The medical website MayoClinic.com recommends you write down your medical history, key personal information, and any questions you may have prior to your visit with a skin care professional.

4. Ask a skin care professional about microdermabrasion. During this outpatient procedure, a machine that emits fine crystals is used to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells from your face. Your doctor may also suggest pulsed dye laser treatment or laser skin resurfacing. Another option involves injectable fillers that are used to "plump up" acne pits to make these epressions less noticeable.

5. Visit the cosmetics section at your local drug store or the cosmetic counter at a department store. Scarring from less severe acne can effectively be treated by over-the-counter topical products. The primary ingredient in topical "fade creams" is called hydroquinone. According to the information available on Drugs.com, hydroquinone decreases pigment in the skin, thus fading dark spots and scars. Hydroquinone may cause slight skin irritation, so test a small spot on your face before applying hydroquinone all over.

6. Use the acne scar repairing treatments as recommended. The best results will come from a combination of continued correct use of the scar treatment, healthy diet, regular skin cleansing, and use of sun protection.