Creams/Lotions for acne scars?

acne scars Box and ice pick
There are many creams and lotions in the market being advertised for use in acne scars. Do they work? A question often asked in our daily routine by worried patients. The answer is a big ‘NO’.

 

Unfortunately, creams and lotion only penetrate upper part of skin which is called the “epidermis”. Scars are much deeper than the epidermis, rather they are present in Dermis. There is a thick layer in between the two called the Dermo-epidermal junction. This is very tight and does not let any creams/lotion etc to penetrate the dermis. Hence no creams or lotions would work for your acne scars.

schematic diagram of layers of skin  layers of skin1

However, some other treatments can improve acne scars which include lasers, peels, subscision, micro-needling, etc.
This is a very technical subject, especially in Pakistan. I see a lot of patients getting significant complications due to the use of different treatments in acne scars. One of the most common reasons for consultation for acne scar in Pakistan is post-inflammatory pigmentation. This is mainly due to the wrong selection of treatment especially laser selection. I see this issue very frequently in Islamabad.

I strongly suggest that please treat your acne in the very early stage so you might not get the scars. Acne scars are treatable but not with creams or expensive lotions. Dont waste your money rather choose your dermatologist wisely and early for acne treatment.

Please do not hesitate to contact us on 0310-1239007 f0r an appointment.