Acne marks are temporary discolorations resulting from recent breakouts, fading over time. They appear as red or dark spots and usually vanish within months. Acne scars, however, are permanent alterations in skin texture caused by collagen damage du...
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Understanding the difference between acne marks and acne scars
Acne marks vs acne scars — a crucial distinction in the post-acne journey.
Acne Marks:
Acne marks are usually temporary discolorations left behind after a pimple has healed. These can be red or brown and are not considered permanent changes to the skin texture.
Acne scars:
Acne scars, on the other hand, bring more permanent changes to the skin texture. They result from the skin's attempt to recover from a severe acne lesion, often leaving indented or raised scars.
Types of Acne Marks:
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH):Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation refers to the development of dark spots on the skin as a result of excessive production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. This condition typically occurs after the skin experiences inflammation or trauma, such as acne, wounds, or other skin disorders. The increased melanin production can lead to the formation of persistent dark patches, which may vary in size and intensity.Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE):Post-inflammatory erythema manifests as red or purple discoloration on the skin and is caused by inflammation of blood vessels. This condition is often a consequence of various skin injuries or inflammatory conditions. Unlike hyperpigmentation, PIE involves changes in blood flow and vascular dilation, leading to the observed red or purple hues. The discoloration may fade over time, but it can be a lingering effect, especially if the initial inflammation is severe. Boxcar scars:Boxcar scars are a type of acne scar characterized by depressed areas on the skin with well-defined edges, resembling the pockmarks left by chickenpox. These scars typically result from the loss of collagen during the skin's healing process after severe acne. The depressions have a box-like appearance, featuring broad and defined boundaries. Boxcar scars can vary in size and depth, contributing to the overall texture and appearance of the skin. Various dermatological treatments are available to help improve the appearance of boxcar scars, depending on their severity.
Types of Acne Scars:
Icepick scars: These are characterized by deep and narrow pits on the skin that resemble puncture wounds. These scars often create small, concentrated indentations in the skin, giving the appearance of being pierced by an icepick. Rolling scars:These scars present as wavelike undulations on the surface of the skin. They give a smoother yet uneven texture, resembling the rolling hills or waves. Unlike icepick scars, rolling scars cover a larger area and create a more subtle, undulating effect. Hypertrophic scars:These scars are raised and thickened, forming a noticeable elevation on the skin's surface. They are commonly observed on the chest and back. Unlike some other types of scars that result in depressions or indentations, hypertrophic scars stand out due to their raised nature, often forming a more pronounced and textured appearance.
