Frequently asked questions on Acne Scars will clarify your doubts on how to get rid of acne scars.

1. | Acne Scars FAQ: What is a Scar? | |
Scar is a collection of new connective tissue. In the skin scar implies damage to both epidermal and dermal layers. If there is more deposition of connective tissue (collagen), the scar is known as hypertrophic scar. These scars are initially red, raised, firm, and, at times, itchy and painful. If the skin heals with the least amount of collagen, this is known as atrophic scar. Atrophic scars are shiny and papery thin to the touch. | ||
2. | Acne Scars FAQ: How is Acne Scars Formed? | |
Acne scars are caused by healing of inflamed acne lesions. Skin repairs itself after any injury, including inflammation, by generating new collagen underneath. This deposition of new connective tissue causes acne scar (see above). The main cause of acne scar is uncontrolled disease activity causing continuous inflammatory response within the dermis. The damaged skin repairs itself with scarring. Learn how acne scars are formed. | ||
3. | Acne Scars FAQ: I have a face full of acne scars and dark spots. My friend also had acne, but now has a clear face! Why do some people get acne scars and others do not? | |
How and why some people get scar and others do not is not completely understood. The following may be the reasons: Some people may be more prone for acne scar than others They may be genetically predisposed to get scars: getting scars, not only the acne ones but the regular scars as well, runs in the family! People who have severe and very severe types of acne(the deep nodulo-cystic variety of acne), where the inflammation is not controlled properly and in time, can have deeper and pronounced acne scars. Picking at the acne lesions with nails or pins increase the chances of scarring in acne. Read more about acne scar causes. | ||
4. | Acne Scars FAQ: How to avoid getting acne scars? | |
The single most important way to avoid scarring is to effectively treat the acne before it worsens and causes severe inflammation. The more the inflammation, the deeper and larger will be the scar. So taking steps in generally limiting the inflammation at its early stage is very important to avoid getting acne scars. Also avoid irritating the acne lesions by constantly picking at the lesions. Read more about Why Preventing Acne Scars is Better than Cure. | ||
5. | Acne Scars FAQ: What are the Types of Acne Scars? | |
There are many types of acne scars. The type, size and texture of scars differ according to the following factors: Type of skin: The oilier, more severe Type of acne: The more inflamed, the deeper and firmer the scars Extend of acne: The deeper the lesions, the deeper the scar. Type of treatment received: Systemic medication, if taken early in the disease state can Keloid ( a type of uncontrolled hypertrophic scar) tendency runs in families. Individuals with this tendency will have larger, thicker and raised scars. Read more on Types of acne scars. | ||
6. | Acne Scars FAQ: Can I start my acne scar treatment while I am on accutane treatment? | |
Harsh topical treatment and laser treatments should not be performed while on accutane. You should wait at least 6 months after accutane is stopped to treat your scar. Some studies have pointed out that actuate causes more scarring in some individuals. But these are not conclusive as accutane treatment is taken for severe and very severe types of inflamed and nodulocystic acne, which otherwise also heal with scarring, with or without scarring.
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7. | Acne Scars FAQ: I used to have pimples earlier. Now i am 26 yrs and I have marks left over by them. How can I clear those marks. | |
Your question is not very clear. Do you have only marks (blemishes) or actual scars? The treatment differs for each, evidently. Please read more about acne blemish treatment and acne scar treatment. |
Acne Scar: Frequently Asked Questions: Related Articles
- Acne Scar Causes
- Types of Acne Scars
- How to Get Rid of Acne Scars
- Acne Scars: Medical or Non Surgical Treatment
- Acne Scar Removal: Surgical and Cosmetic Treatment
- Laser Treatment for Acne Scars
- Acne Scars: Why Prevention is Better Than Cure!
- How to Get Rid of Acne Blemishes
- All About Different Types of Acne and their Treatment
Disclaimer
The information given in this article is for educational purpose only so that patients are aware of the options available for diagnosis and treatment of common skin, hair and nail diseases. No diagnosis should be made or treatment undertaken without first consulting your dermatologist. If you do so, the author will not be responsible for any consequences. The images provided are for illustration purpose only and should not be reproduced without the consent of the author.
About the Author of Skin Care Tips from Dermatologist: Dr Hanish Babu, MD

Dr Hanish Babu, MD is a dermatologist with more than 3 decades of experience in treating skin and sexually transmitted diseases in UAE and India. He has been practicing in UAE since last 22 years. He is a respected speaker during the Continuing Medical education Programmes for doctors, medical students and paramedical staff and is also a Stress Management Trainer. He organises group therapy sessions for patients with psoriasis, eczema and vitiligo.
He is available for consultation at Cosmolaser Medical Centre in Samnan, Sharjah (06 5678 200) from 9 am – 1 pm and at City Medical Centre, Al Bustan, Ajman (06-7 441 882) from 4.30 pm – 9.30 pm.
Visit his personal website dr-hanishbabu.com for more details and for educational articles on Skin, hair, nail and sexually transmitted diseases. Click here to Book an Appointment with dermatologist Dr Hanish Babu, MD