Acne is one of the most common skin diseases in the world, seen in adolescence and, increasingly, in adulthood as well. It is not only an aesthetic problem; it is a disease that, when not managed correctly, can lead to permanent scars and psychological effects. Acne and scar treatment requires a holistic approach that covers both bringing active acne under control and improving the remaining scars and marks. With the correct treatment, acne can largely be controlled.
Why does acne form?
Acne arises from the coming together of the overworking of the sebaceous glands, the clogging of pores with dead cells and oil, the role of bacteria and inflammation processes. Factors such as hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, some cosmetic products, stress and diet can trigger or worsen this process.
Acne can be seen in different degrees of severity, from blackheads and whiteheads to red bumps and deep, painful cysts. Its severity and type directly determine the treatment approach. For this reason an approach of ‘all acne is the same’ or ‘the same treatment is applied to everyone’ is not correct.
Adult acne, especially in women, can be seen in the chin and lower-face region in association with hormonal fluctuations. This type of acne can require a different approach from adolescent acne; this is why correct evaluation is important.
The approach in acne treatment
The aim of acne treatment is both to heal the existing lesions and to prevent the formation of new ones. Treatment is planned individually according to the type and severity of the acne, the person's skin structure and lifestyle. Not a single product or method but a holistic plan is needed.
While in mild acne topical treatments and suitable skin care come to the fore, in moderate-to-severe acne additional treatments recommended by the physician may be needed. What matters is that the treatment is continued regularly and with patience; because in acne treatment the results are usually seen gradually over weeks.
One of the frequent mistakes in acne treatment is squeezing the spots or trying uncontrolled products. These behaviours can increase inflammation and facilitate scar formation. For this reason acne should be managed not on one's own but under the guidance of a physician.
- Bringing active spots under control.
- Preventing the formation of new lesions.
- Preventing the formation of scars and marks.
- Suitable care that protects the skin barrier.
- A sustainable plan aimed at reducing recurrences.
Why do acne scars form?
As inflamed acne lesions heal, they can leave marks in the skin in the form of tissue loss or excess. Especially deep and cystic acne is more risky in terms of leaving scars. Alongside scars, dark marks remaining after the lesion (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) are also frequently seen.
The most effective way to prevent scar formation is to treat active acne early and correctly. That is why, instead of the approach ‘let's clear the acne first, we'll deal with the scars later’, it is much more sensible to bring the acne under control before it has a chance to leave scars.
Scars can be in the form of depressions (atrophic), raised or colour change. Each scar type requires a different treatment; for this reason the type of scars must be correctly determined before starting scar treatment.
Acne scar treatment options
In acne scars, different methods are used according to the type of scar. In depressed scars, methods that stimulate renewal and collagen production in the skin come to the fore; among these can be counted gold-needle radiofrequency, microneedling and laser-based applications. These methods help the scar tissue become smoother over time.
For colour change and marks, on the other hand, chemical peeling, spot treatments and suitable skin care can be preferred. Most of the time the best result is achieved by combining more than one method according to the cause and the type of scar.
Scar treatment is a process that requires patience; the results emerge gradually over the sessions. A realistic expectation is important: the aim is most of the time not to eliminate the scars completely but to improve the skin's appearance by markedly reducing them.
The best treatment for acne scars is to bring active acne under control in time, without ever giving the scars a chance.
Skin care and lifestyle
In acne-prone skin, correct skin care is an inseparable part of treatment. It is important to cleanse the skin gently, use non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) products and not over-dry the skin. Aggressive products that irritate the skin can worsen acne.
Sun protection is also critically important; because the sun causes post-acne marks to darken. In addition, since some acne treatments make the skin sensitive to the sun, the use of a suitable sunscreen supports the success of the treatment.
It is known that diet and stress can affect acne in some people. A balanced lifestyle contributes to treatment. However, acne is a multifactorial disease; for this reason it should be managed not only with lifestyle changes but with a holistic medical approach.
Frequently asked questions
Does acne go away completely? In most people, with correct treatment, acne is largely brought under control. In some people, especially when hormonal factors continue, there can be flare-ups from time to time; in this case a protective care plan is followed.
When does scar treatment start? Scar treatment is usually started after active acne is brought under control. Some scar procedures done while active lesions continue can negatively affect the result; for this reason the order is important.
How long does treatment take? Acne treatment requires patience; the first marked improvement usually begins within a few weeks. Scar treatment, on the other hand, is a longer, session-based process. Regularity determines the result in both processes.
Acne and psychological impact
Acne, especially when it is in a visible area such as the face, can seriously affect a person's self-confidence and social life. This effect is seen not only in adolescents but also in adults. For this reason acne treatment requires a holistic approach that targets not only the skin but also the person's quality of life.
Bringing acne under control provides a marked psychological relief in most people. That is why, instead of postponing treatment by saying ‘it will go away anyway’, getting professional support in the early period is valuable for both skin health and mental health.
During the treatment process, a realistic expectation and patience are important. Acne treatment is like a marathon; regular follow-up and adherence to the plan give a much better result than short-term searches for a ‘miracle’. In this process, good communication with the physician supports motivation and success.
It should not be forgotten that acne is not a condition that arises from a lack of personal hygiene; it is a multifactorial disease. Knowing this fact reduces feelings of guilt and shame related to acne and allows the person to approach treatment with a healthier outlook.
At the clinic of Dr. Burcu Çelen, acne and scar treatment is carried out with a holistic plan specific to your skin type, covering the control of active acne and the improvement of scars. You can make an appointment to evaluate your skin and to determine the plan suitable for you.