How to Minimise Your Acne Scars

Acne is one of the most common facial skin conditions, affecting  up to 80% of people in the UK in their teen years, according to the NHS website. Fortunately, most people grow out of it, with just 5% of sufferers dealing with breakouts beyond the age of 25, but even once it’s gone acne can leave behind unpleasant scars. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to minimise the appearance of acne scarring, and we’ve got a few tips for you here:

Exfoliate with AHAs

AHAs, or Alpha-Hydroxy Acids, are naturally derived acids often from fruits, which gently exfoliate the skin by dissolving the top layer of dead cells and improving the skin’s texture. Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Gel Mask contains high levels of AHAs which help reduce sebum flow by gently resurfacing and reducing the accumulation of keratin, improving the appearance of acne scars exponentially.

Use Sunscreen

Allowing scars to be exposed to the sun will cause darkening which will make your scar appear even more noticeable. Applying sunscreen when you go out, even when it’s not sunny outside, will protect your skin and stop your scars from darkening – opt for a broad spectrum, oil-free formula like Dermalogica Oil Free Matte SPF30 which will give you decent protection without messing up the delicate balance of oil in your skin.

Stock Up on Vitamin C

Vitamin C works wonders on the complexion; as well as making the complxion clearer and less pigmented, it reduces inflammation and fights free radicals. Decleor Extreme Brightening Essence is a targeted 30-day treatment system which uses pure vitamin C to regulate the skin, reduce areas of scarring and pigmentation and soothes the skin from irritants. It’s perfect to use on complexions which suffer with scaring and will show an improvement after just 30 days.

Reach for Rosehip

Rosehip is another great botanical ingredient which can help the battle against acne scarring. Rosehip is a natural anti-inflammatory which can help to reduce the appearance of scars and anti-oxidant benefits which increase cell-renewal and healing. Elemis Smart Cleanse Micellar Water contains rosehip and is the perfect gentle cleanser for scarred and potentially sensitive skin.

Soothe Your Skin

Many people who’ve suffered acne in the past will still have sensitive skin and although breakouts of acne don’t happen any more, over-sensitised skin can react in other ways, so it’s important to use products which keep it in check. Elemis Herbal Lavender Repair Mask in made with a soothing kaolin clay base and infused with lavender which reduces inflammation and reduces scarring, making it perfect in this scenario.