There are several instances in which the skin condition is contingent on the color of your skin, and acne is one of them as well. While the issue lies not in the presentation of acne, but rather, what it leaves in its aftermath.
Scars or dark spot often tend to appear after a bout of acne breakout, and unfortunately, people of color are more prone to this episode. Since they have higher melanin in their skin, it is more likely that acne leads to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
They then not only have to see the Best Skin Specialist in Karachi for the management of their skin condition but also for the treatment of hyperpigmentation then. Some people might also see the area with the acne spots becoming lighter. In either case, the issue of the complexion becoming uneven persists.
Treating acne keeping in mind the skin type
The treatment for acne is three-fold; oral, topical and combination. Your doctor will determine the best possible route. Alongside cure, it also helps to be mindful of the aftermath of acne and preventing the appearance of dark spots.
Some treatment options to consider include:
Antibiotics
Since acne can be caused by bacteria, therefore, using antibiotics can be of help in management of acne.
Acids
Certain acids like vitamin C, linoleic acid, and azelaic acid can also aid in management of acne but more importantly, the hyperpigmentation that tends to follow it.
Addressing hormonal issues
Hormonal changes can also lead to acne breakouts. These are especially common in adolescents, but not limited to. Your doctor might also then suggest hormonal therapy for the management of acne symptoms.
Benzoyl peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide has a two-pronged working mechanism; it not only kills the bacteria responsible, but it also exfoliates the skin for to prevent clogging of pores that lead to the breakouts. It also is good for addressing hyperpigmentation as well.
Chemical peel
Chemical peel helps in exfoliating the skin at a deeper level. It needs to be administered by a dermatologist and can lead to higher sensitivity to the skin.
Lighter therapy
Light therapy involves using light for to target the areas of skin that have the breakout. Specifically, the popular red light therapy benefits include getting rid of hyperpigmentation and inflammation.
Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid helps in not just clearing acne, but it is also an exfoliant as well. Therefore, it dissuades hyperpigmentation as well.
Vitamin A derivatives
Retinol and retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that can aid in the management of acne symptoms. While retinol is available over the counter, retinoids are more potent so require prescription.
Helpful tips to clear your acne
Through the journey of acne flareup and its treatment, knowing some helpful clearing tips that can potentially prevent hyperpigmentation are helpful. These include:
Have better hygiene
You should be careful about your hygiene so that there is no oil that can lead to clogged pores. So, make sure that you wash your face regularly, change your pillow covers frequently and take care of your scalp hygiene as well.
Start treatment early
Do not wait for the breakout to get worse. Treat it as soon as possible, so that it does not get worse. An aggravated case not only carries a higher risk of dark spots, but scar formation as well.
Better makeup and skincare choices
Do not use products that can clog your pores, and thus increase the probability of clogged pores and break out.
Understand cause
It also helps to understand the cause of acne. At times, those caused on the forehead and temples can be on account of your hair. So, do cater to your scalp health in this case.
Get expert help
It is also highly recommended that you visit the Best Dermatologist in Lahore for acne treatment and ask them alongside to cater to the dark spots as well in the regimen. Do not rely on OTC medication alone, but have an expert draft a treatment plan.
