acne scars
If you're unsure whether you're dealing with acne or acne scars, here are some ways to differentiate:
Active Acne: These are red, inflamed bumps, whiteheads, blackheads, or cysts that may be painful or filled with pus.
Acne Scars: These appear as marks or indentations left behind after acne has healed. They can look red, brown, or have a textured appearance (like pits or raised areas).
What to Do:
1. For Active Acne:
Stick to a gentle skincare routine.
Use products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to reduce breakouts.
Avoid picking or squeezing acne to prevent scarring.
Try calming ingredients like centella asiatica or green tea for inflammation.
2. For Acne Scars:
PIE (Post-Inflammatory Erythema): Red/pink marks; treat with soothing products or azelaic acid.
PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation): Brown marks; treat with ingredients like vitamin C, alpha arbutin, or gentle exfoliation (AHA or PHA).
Textured Scars: Seek professional treatments like microneedling or chemical peels.
Would you like personalized product recommendations? Or, based on your skin type, I can suggest ways to manage both.