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Home » Topics A–Z » Acne scars
Author: Reviewed and updated by Dr Amanda Oakley Dermatologist, Hamilton, New Zealand; Vanessa Ngan, Staff Writer; Clare Morrison, Copy Editor, June 2014.
The term "scarring" refers to a fibrous process in which new collagen is laid down to heal a full-thickness injury. It affects 30% of those with moderate or severe acne vulgaris. It is particularly common in nodulocystic acne, acne conglobata and acne fulminans. It may also be a long-term consequence of infantile acne.
To reduce the chance of scarring, seek treatment for your acne early. Severe acne can often be cured.
Postinflammatory colour changes are seen after inflammatory acne lesions have recently healed.
Postinflammatory colour changes improve with time, but it can take many months for them to completely resolve.
Treatments for postinflammatory pigmentation include:
Unfortunately, true acne scars never completely disappear, although their appearance usually improves with time. They can be disguised with make-up (cosmetic camouflage).
The following types of scar occur in acne:
Unfortunately, hypertrophic or keloid scars are particularly prone to recur even after apparently successful treatment.
See smartphone apps to check your skin.
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