Acne scars on black skin: effective treatments
Acne scars are a real challenge for black and mixed-race skin. More prone to hyperpigmentation and complex scars such as keloids, these skins require specific and adapted care. A simple outbreak of acne, eczema or an injury can leave lasting marks due to an overproduction of melanin. These brown spots or raised scars can sometimes be a source of embarrassment. Today, however, there are solutions for reducing these marks and restoring an even, radiant complexion. In this article, discover the particularities of acne scars on black skin, the causes of their persistence and effective treatments to get rid of them.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: a challenge for black skin
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a common problem for people with black skin. Simple acne, a flare-up of eczema or an injury can lead to excessive melanin production, resulting in the appearance of persistent brown spots. This uneven, often visible pigmentation can be a source of complexes.
Why are black skins more prone to hyperpigmentation?
Black and mixed-race skins have unique characteristics. Increased melanin production makes these skins more susceptible to the appearance of dark spots. These marks can be raised, sunken or simply pigmented, compromising the skin’s uniform appearance.
Post-acne scars: a delicate process
Acne scars are a particular type of residual mark that forms when the skin is reconstructed. On black skin, this process is often more complex, as it combines a tendency to acne with delicate healing. This increases the risk of developing deep or visible marks.
The role of melanin in acne scars
When an acne pimple forms, the skin triggers an inflammatory process accompanied by excessive melanin production. This overproduction can lead to long-lasting brown spots, particularly common in cases of severe acne, such as nodular or cystic acne. These pigmentation anomalies are difficult to treat.
Managing acne on black skin and its signs
Microneedling: a promising technology
Microneedling is an innovative technique for reducing acne scars. Using a pen equipped with microneedles, it stimulates collagen production by creating small perforations in the skin. This regenerative process promotes gradual resurfacing and reduces the visibility of marks.
The importance of an adapted care routine
A targeted routine is essential to fade spots and prevent their appearance. Dermatologists recommend gentle exfoliation, performed once or twice a week, to prepare the skin for cell renewal. However, it’s crucial to choose products adapted to the sensitivity of black skin to avoid irritation.
Pigment scars: Understanding and treating them
Pigment scars, also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation spots, are the result of excessive melanin production in an injured area. After the pimple has disappeared, the skin may remain marked by a brown or red spot, depending on skin tone.
Why are pigment scars more pronounced on darker skins?
The darker the skin, the more intense the residual pigmentation. The increased production of melanin and the natural thickness of ethnic skins contribute to the formation of more stubborn, sometimes raised scars. These marks require special care and patience to disappear.
Prevention and treatment of hyperpigmentation
Adopting the right daily gestures
To limit hyperpigmentation, it’s essential to protect the skin against aggression. This includes proper moisturizing, the use of non-comedogenic cosmetic products and regular application of sunscreen to prevent the aggravation of spots due to UV rays.
Choose the right exfoliating products
To promote cell renewal, a gentle exfoliating treatment is recommended. Dermocosmetic peels, specially designed for black skin, remove dead cells while respecting the skin’s sensitivity. For example, scrubs with non-abrasive beads avoid micro-scratching and irritation.
When should you see a dermatologist?
When faced with persistent acne or stubborn blemishes, it’s best to consult a specialized dermatologist. This professional will be able to recommend suitable treatments, such as medical peels, microneedling sessions or protocols combining topical care and advanced aesthetic techniques. At the Epilium&Skin aesthetic center, you can meet with an aesthetic doctor who will be able to advise you on the right solutions for your skin problems.
Why do acne spots persist on black skin?
Darker skins, with more active melanocytes, react differently to inflammation. When a pimple or skin lesion appears, the body sends an influx of melanin to repair the area. However, this excess pigment often leaves visible spots that can last for months if not treated properly.
The impact of sun exposure and irritation
In addition to acne, other factors such as the sun, unsuitable products or rashes aggravate hyperpigmentation. These external influences stimulate melanin production, making the skin even more prone to pigmentation spots.
Solutions for clear skin
Targeted treatments and rigorous prevention can reduce the impact of hyperpigmentation. By following specialized advice and adopting the right products, it’s possible to regain an even, radiant complexion, even after episodes of acne or skin irritation.
Treating acne on black skin at Epilium & Skin
At Epilium & Skin, the treatment of acne on black skin is based on an innovative, targeted solution: Lase® coupled with tranexamic acid serum. This approach combines technology and in-depth care to effectively treat imperfections while respecting the sensitivity of black skin. Thanks to Lase®, micro-channels are created on the skin’s surface, enabling optimal absorption of the serum. The serum, rich in tranexamic acid, acts directly at the heart of the epidermis to reduce pigmentation spots and soothe inflammation. For lasting results, a 15-day protocol with regular application of the serum prolongs and reinforces the benefits of the treatment, offering a more even complexion and visibly clearer skin.