Checkout how to fade those annoying acne scars…
It’s not as hard as you think.
By Adetoun Adeyemo October 21, 2018
Pexels
Dealing with spots can be bad enough, so the annoying aftermath can feel like metaphorically rubbing salt in your wounds, but unless your skin is damaged to the deep layers of the dermis, these reddy-pink or brown marks will eventually disappear.
While patience is key, there are some ways to speed up the fading of discolouration that remains after a spot. Try these tips for a brighter-faced future:
Always wear sunscreen
Try to avoid prolonged sun exposure as it will make the skin’s healing process slower, and wear a broad spectrum SPF daily to prevent the marks from appearing more obvious. UV exposure stimulates pigment production, causing spot scars to darken, so sun protection really is key to fading discolouration.
Exfoliate with AHA and BHA
What-HA? AHA stands for alpha hydroxy acid such as glycolic and lactic acids (think anti-ageing), while BHA, or beta hydroxy acid, refers to salicylic acid (think anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory) and both AHA and BHA are exfoliants that will promote a more-even skin tone. A combo of the two will help to encourage the rejuvenation of the skin, without you having to scrub your skin red-raw and cause more damage. We recommend using the Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser (£34, murad.co.uk) daily which helps improve cell-turnover.
Pick vitamin C-loaded products
Another non-scary acid that works wonders on complexion clarity is ascorbic acid, or vitamin C. This free radical-fighter aids inflammation and fades pigment patches. Two skin-brightening serums powered with vitamin C that are equally recommended include the Ren radiance Perfecting Serum (£35, liberty.co.uk) and the Ole Henriksen Truth Serum Collagen Booster (£23.50, feelunique.com).
Repair your complexion
Rosehip oil can work wonders when it comes to calming, soothing and repairing damaged skin, so much so, it’s been used to increase healing time following the treatment of burns. Try MV Organics Rose Plus Booster (£72, Cultbeauty.co.uk) it’s full of high quality essential oils (including rosehip and jojoba), just add a couple of drops into your moisturiser to help fade stubborn spots.
Get professional resurfacing facials
Talk to a dermatologist about treatments such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and microdermabrasion, which can be highly effective in reducing scars and wrinkles more than at-home exfoliation can. For an easy way in, try the Elemis BIOTEC Skin Resurfacer Facial, available at The House of Elemis and Elemis Spas nationwide.
