Acne Scars and Hyperpigmentation

[SappySaps]

Hi, I'm a high school senior and I have been dealing with acne scars from picking when I was in middle school. I have tried The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Hyperpigmentation Serum 1 oz/ 30 mL , and it worked only a little bit. I feel that, since I had this for a long time and have dark skin, I produce a lot of melanin and would need something stronger. What type of product do you think would help me more? (I love the ordinary brand btw). I'm not sure if niacinamide, vitamin C, or glycolic acid is better for my skin. I also know that exfoliation is probably necessary, do you have any product recommendations for people with dry skin?

[averylayne]

Had similar breakouts, marks, and scaring a couples year ago (mostly concentrated on the cheeks). Went to the derm and she recommended several things including a couple prescriptions to clear the acne, and EltaMD uvclear sunscreen. After the acne cleared, I was left with the scars, but the sunscreen (containing niacinamide) really helped with that. I would also recommend a glycolic acid toner (The Ordinary or Pixi), and a vitamin C serum. Good luck!

[SappySaps]

Ok, thanks! I'll def try it and see a dermatologist!

[meleppek]

Glycolic acid has worked really well on my post acne marks. The ordinary glycolic acid toner could be a good option but if you want something more hydrating I love Paulas Choice 8% aha gel exfoliant. Try using a chemical peel once a week and make sure to moisturize. I personally have never tried vitamin C but I’ve heard great things. Hope this helps a little

[SappySaps]

Thanks! I'll try them out! 😁

[makeitup305]

@SappySaps  Here are some recommendations. I am not a dermatologist and if possible, I would recommend visiting one first, especially if you still have active breakouts.  That said, you could use a Vitamin C serum like the The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% 1 oz/ 30 mL  and add a sunscreen on top before putting on makeup in the morning. Sunscreen is your friend in helping prevent the spots from becoming darker. You can try incorporating an exfoliant such as The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner 8 oz/ 240 mL  a few days a week followed by the The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Oil Control Serum 1 oz/ 30 mL  and a nice gel moisturizer. Another recommendation would be to use the The INKEY List Tranexamic Acid Hyperpigmentation Treatment 1 oz/ 30 mL every few nights.

I recommended all Ordinary products since they’re more affordable and might be easier for you to purchase since you’re in high school but feel free to use it as a guideline into what kind of items and ingredients to look for. The Inkey List is also pretty affordable. I also wouldn’t recommend starting it all at once since you’re skin isn’t used to it. I’d start maybe with the Vit C and Niacinamide and then slowly incorporate the glycolic acid toner and the tranexamic acid treatment. 

Hope this helps!

[SappySaps]

Thanks! I love your recommendations, I'll definitely try it!

[kemahsabe]

go to a dermatologist if you can. I personally use dermologica and it has worked wonders on my skin. exfoliation and peels help resurface new skin and get rid of those dark marks. always moisturize after maybe with vitamin c infused creams. @makeitup305 has the right idea. esp. because your in high school, things can get expensive af. ordinary makes it affordable 

[SappySaps]

Thanks! I'll definitely try to see a dermatologist! LOL yuppp I'm basically broke rn😂