Best Acne Scar Serums: A Guide to Treating Acne Scarring

What is commonly referred to as acne scars is rather post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, also known as erythema. Scarring and discolouration of the skin occurs as a result of a skin injury, and when it comes to acne, it is caused by excess oil, bacteria and dead skin cells clogging the pores. 

When the skin tries to repair itself, it can leave behind red or brown marks, depending on the type of skin and the kind of breakout. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is exacerbated by exposure to UV rays and environmental aggressors, which can lead to free radical damage that can turn into dark spots.

Acne scarring as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can be treated by ingredients like Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Retinol, Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Benzoyl Peroxide.

The best way to stop acne scars is by preventing it before it occurs. Implementing topical treatments like serums, can help reduce breakouts and prevent new acne from forming. As a result, this minimises the chance of scarring. Pairing a serum for acne scars with sunscreen creates the best defence against further acne scars. With our best acne scar serum guide, you can expect radiant skin and feel confident in the condition of your skin.

The best serums for acne scars

Aspect Pigment Punch+

The Aspect Pigment Punch+ is the ideal serum for fighting age spots, uneven skin tone, scarring and brown spots. The key ingredients for fighting acne scars are Lactic Acid, to smooth skin texture, Tyrostat-11, a blend of Vitamin C to even skin tone, and RadianSkinT, which helps prevent melanin build up and prevents pigmentation before it occurs.

This brightening serum is ideal for all skin types including sensitive skin, and works best for those with mature skin or hyperpigmentation. You can expect a radiant and smooth complexion after using this serum. The Aspect Pigment Punch+ is formulated without artificial fragrances, sulphates, mineral oil and parabens.

It is recommended to apply 1 pump of this serum after cleansing and follow through with moisturiser. For the day time protect your skin with sunscreen, like the Aspect Sun Envirostat On The Go. It can be mixed with other serums from the Aspect range and is suitable for use in the morning and evening.

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Serum

If your skin has been damaged due to environmental aggressors causing premature signs of ageing and resulting in scarring, then the SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Serum is for you. It is formulated with pure Vitamin C and Ferulic Acid to brighten uneven skin tone and fade acne scars.

The SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Serum is ideal for normal, oily and combination skin types. You can expect premature signs of ageing to be diminished, skin to be protected and discolouration to be improved. This serum is formulated without parabens, fragrance and dye.

It is recommended to use this in the daytime, after cleanser and toner. Apply 4 to 5 drops to dry skin before all other skincare products. It is safe to use on the face, neck and chest. Once the serum has been absorbed, it remains effective for a minimum of 72 hours. Pair this serum with the SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF50 for best results.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum

Keep acne scars and discolouration at bay with the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum. This serum is formulated with two antioxidants, Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Vitamin C helps to brighten your skin tone, whilst Vitamin C protects your skin from free radical damage.

Utilising two kinds of antioxidants, pure Vitamin C and Vitamin E, this serum will protect your skin from free radical damage, while brightening your complexion at the same time. With the addition of Ferulic Acid, your skin will remain protected from environmental stress and sun damage. After using this serum, your skin will have improved firmness, a brighter complexion with the appearance of dark spots and wrinkles reduced.

The SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum is ideal for normal, dry and sensitive skin types. It is formulated without any parabens and like the SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Serum, it will continue to work for a minimum of 72 hours. 

It is best to apply a thin layer after cleanser and toner. It is recommended to use 4-5 drops on a dry face, neck and chest, before other skincare products. Ensure your skin is protected in the daytime with a high protection broad spectrum sunscreen.

Osmosis MD Catalyst AC-11

Meet the Osmosis MD Catalyst AC-11, a highly effective repairing serum that can help improve the skin's texture and tone, treat dark spots and acne scars, and increase elastin and collagen production. With a unique combination of Vitamin C and plant extracts like Honeysuckle and Aloe Vera, you can expect skin cells to be repaired, signs of ageing to be diminished and wound healing to be improved.

The Osmosis MD Catalyst AC-11 is suited for all skin types, including sensitive skin. If you have concerns about broken capillaries or skin tags, this serum will make a great addition into your routine. It is created without toxic chemicals, artificial colours and fragrances and SLS.

Apply 1 to 2 pumps onto clean skin in the morning or evening and follow with additional serums or moisturisers if needed. If you have concerns about skin tags or pigmentation, apply one drop of serum onto a bandaid and leave it on overnight to deliver a high concentration dose to the target area. In the daytime, follow through with a high protection sunscreen, like the Dermaceutic K Ceutic SPF50 for best results.

Cosmedix Define

Resurface your skin with the Cosmedix Define. Using Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and AGP Retinol Complex, the Cosmedix Define helps increase cell turnover, fade dark marks and restores the skin's hydration for smoother and more even looking skin. Lactic Acid, Malic Acid and Tartaric Acid are ideal for gently exfoliating the skin to reveal a smoother and more even appearance. The AGP Retinol Complex encourages skin cell renewal and aids in diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.

It is recommended for most skin types, including dry skin and sensitive skin. It is also best for those that are new to Retinol, have problematic or reactive skin. As the serum contains Vitamin A, it is not safe for use during pregnancy, or when breastfeeding. 

It is recommended to use this at night time, as sun exposure may increase skin sensitivity. Apply the serum onto cleansed and toned skin, and follow up with moisturiser as needed. It is safe to use this 2-4 times a week. In the morning, apply sunscreen as the last step in your routine.

FAQ

What is acne scarring?

Acne scarring refers to the process of new collagen formulation to heal skin trauma. It is quite common after moderate to severe acne. Post inflammatory pigmentation may occur after the acne lesions have healed. These post acne marks commonly present themselves as pink or brown spots, but may also appear as purple or white marks. The colour can change over time but it can take some time before they are fully resolved.

Are acne scars permanent?

Acne scars are usually permanent, though depending on the severity, they can be treated and minimised overtime. 

How do you treat acne scars?

Depending on the severity and appropriate treatment, there are a number of ways to treat acne scars. Acne scars can be treated with aesthetic treatments like laser resurfacing and Infini RF Skin Needling. There are also a number of topical treatments, including serums for acne scars.

What ingredients help acne scarring?

There are a few ingredients that can help reduce the appearance of acne scars. They can typically be found in serums for acne scars. These include Azelaic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Retinol, Vitamin C and Salicylic Acid. These ingredients help to unclog pores, prevent breakouts and stimulate collagen.

What is the best serum for acne scars?

This will depend on the type and severity of scarring of the acne scars. When looking for the right serums for acne scars, it is important to focus on the kinds of ingredients, rather than the formulation. 

Pairing your serum for acne scars with sun protection is the best defence against acne scars.

Acne scars in the form of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation are marks or spots left behind after a pimple has healed. It is the skin’s natural response to inflammation.

Overtime it can be treated with topical treatments, including serums. Results are not instantaneous, but with the continued use of a serum for acne scars and daily sun protection, the appearance of acne scars can be reduced. 

Please patch test before using new skincare products and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Shop our acne and congestion skincare range here.

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