Causes of scarsWhen the inner layer of skin is damaged, scars are formed. The dermis houses follicles which sometimes become swollen with infection caused by bacteria, dead skin cells and excess oil which causes the lesion under the skin known as pimples. When the follicle ruptures close to the surface of the skin, the lesion is minor and often does not leave scars. The scarring mainly occurs when there is a deep tear in the follicle wall causing the infection to spread and destroy healthy skin tissue, leaving a scar.
Prevention first
Preventing breakouts is crucial to preventing scarring. Resist the urge to pick at or scratch pimples. It may seem like a sure-fire way to get rid of the bacteria under the skin, but all it does is open the wound up to further germs and debris which will cause the infection to spread further, increasing the likelihood of scarring. Acne scars are generally permanent which is why prevention is of paramount importance.
Natural ways to remove or visibly reduce the appearance of
Home remedies are a much safer and cheaper option and tend to improve the overall general health of your skin. Unfortunately they are effective mostly for mild scarring, while severe scarring may improve if not disappear altogether.
Vitamin E oil will not cause scarring to disappear but with continued and dedicated daily application, the scars will fade over time.
Cucumber and tomato juice has been suggested by some who have tried it, it minimizes the appearance of acne scars. An old favourite as part of many home remedies is the application of lemon juice directly to scars to reduce severity of appearance.
An oatmeal paste exfoliates the skin and is said to have a healing effect on damaged skin tissue. Garlic paste may ward off vampires, but it has been used as an ingredient in creams and lotions for the treatment of acne. Apply these to your face and test the results, as there may be one that works better than another for your personal skin type. Patience is of the essence here as visible repair to scarred skin may well take from 4 6 months before showing a difference.
Medical Treatments
A dermatologist may recommend various surgical treatments to remove scarring. These methods are known to be expensive. Collagen injections are another option but can be dangerous in the case of an allergic reaction. Laser treatments are popular, and often have to be repeated over a period of time. Long term effects of laser treatment are not, however, certain.
