Scarring - The Physical Effect Of Acne

The physical effect of acne is seen in the scars left behind by the pimples. Researchers have still not been able to find out why some people are more prone to scarring than others. Or why some pimples leave scars behind while others do not. The best way to prevent the occurrence of scars is to prevent the occurrence of pimples. However, it is possible to treat acne scars only once they have formed.

Why Do Scars Form?

When the acne subsides gradually, the skin repairs itself. Nevertheless, at times it is unable to restore itself completely. Thus it leaves behind a scar. This is the physical effect of acne.

Types Of Scars

There are different types of scars that arise from the occurrence of pimples. These have been described below:

Pseudo scars:
These are not scars in the true sense. They are spots on the skin that disappear over a period of time. However, they look like scars. There are two types of pseudo scars:

• Macules- This is the last stage of a pimple wherein the swelling subsides leaving behind a red blemish. This may last for about six months.
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation- At times the skin may darken at the location of the pimple. This stage lasts for around 18 months and is usually seen in people that have dark complexion.

Scars caused by the increase in the formation of tissue:
An injury to the skin may result in the excess production of collagen. This collagen accumulates to form a compact, even, irregular shaped scar. This type of scarring is usually hereditary in nature and occurs along the jaws, chest and back. These scars are also called keloid or hypertropic scars.

Scars caused by loss of tissue
The scars caused by loss of tissue are more frequent than scars caused by increase tissue formation. These scars can be classified as follows:

• Ice-pick scars- These tiny, deep scars with serrated edges and steep sides are usually found on the cheeks.
• Depressed fibrotic acne scars- Some ice-pick scars eventually transform into depressed fibrotic acne scars by becoming bigger and developing a hard base.
• Atrophic macules- These soft scars have a furrowed base. They are small when they occur on the face and large when they occur elsewhere on the body. Initially they have a bluish hue that lightens gradually to become ivory in color.
• Soft acne scars- These scars are soft and incline gently to merge with the surrounding skin. They are usually tiny, and are round or linear in shape.
• Follicular macular atrophy- These soft, minute scars occur on the chest and back of the acne sufferer. They are white in color and look like underdeveloped whiteheads.

The physical effects of acne can be neutralized by undergoing treatment for scarring like applying topical medications or through surgery.