1. What is Acne & Acne Scars?

Acne is a common skin condition caused by clogged pores due to oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. It typically appears as pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.

Scars form when inflammation damages the skin, leaving behind marks that may be raised or depressed.

• Atrophic scars: shallow pits.
• Boxcar scars: wider, deep scars with edges.
• Ice pick scars: narrow and deep scars.
• Keloid scars: raised, excess collagen growth.

Treatment options include topical treatments, peels, microneedling, and laser therapy.

2. Signs and Symptoms of Acne & Acne Scars

Acne presents in many different forms, ranging from mild whiteheads and blackheads to more severe cystic lesions. Common signs of acne include:

• Whiteheads (closed plugged pores)
• Blackheads (open plugged pores)
• Papules (small red, tender bumps)
• Pustules (papules with pus at their tips)
• Nodules (large, painful lumps beneath the surface of the skin)
• Cystic lesions (painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin)

Acne scars, on the other hand, are the long-term effects left on the skin once the acne lesions heal. Symptoms of acne scars include:

• Pitted or indented skin (commonly on the cheeks or temples)
• Raised, firm scars that may be itchy or tender
• Discoloration, including red or brown spots that linger after acne clears

Recognizing the signs early can help you manage acne more effectively and reduce the likelihood of scarring.

3. What Causes Acne & Acne Scars?

Acne is primarily caused by the clogging of hair follicles with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Several factors contribute to the development of acne:

• Hormonal changes – such as those during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy
• Excess oil (sebum) production
• Bacteria – especially Cutibacterium acnes on the skin
• Clogged pores due to dead skin buildup
• Diet – High-glycemic foods and dairy may trigger breakouts in some individuals
• Stress – which may worsen acne in some people
• Certain medications – such as corticosteroids, testosterone, or lithium

Acne scars are typically caused by inflamed lesions that penetrate deeply into the skin and damage the tissue beneath. The skin attempts to repair the damage by forming new collagen fibers, but the healing process isn't always smooth, resulting in permanent scarring.