Acne Scars

If I Don't Pick, Can I Still Get Acne Scars?

Some people may be under the misconception that acne scars only occur when you've picked at a pimple, blackhead or other acne lesion. In fact, acne scars are a serious condition for many people, and anyone who has acne is at risk for acne scars. There are, however, some situations in which acne scars are more likely to occur. Guarding against scarring in those situations and more aggressively treating the acne becomes even more important.

Cystic acne is one of the conditions in which acne scars are a very real possibility. Cystic acne is the name for acne that appears as nodules or cysts. One of the defining characteristics of this condition is that the acne never forms a true whitehead above the skin's surface. There's an infection just as there is with any acne, but this time the infection gathers and erupts below the surface. It's possible to have a few cystic acne points while still having other types of acne breakouts, or the person with cystic acne may have no whiteheads, blackheads or pimples. While those cystic acne points are painful, there's also a real potential for scarring. The stress to the skin and discoloration make acne scars a real possibility.

The person suffering from adult acne is a prime candidate for acne scars. The reason acne scars can be more serious as a result of adult acne has nothing to do with the severity of breakouts. Instead, it has everything to do with the regenerative powers of your skin. Older people have older skin, and that older skin doesn't spring back the way youthful skin is prone to do.

Finally, it's true that picking at acne can increase the risk of acne scars. It's a simple concept to understand. You make a sore when you pick at acne, and sores are prone to leave marks - in this case acne scars.

The potential for acne scars is prevalent whenever there's a case of acne, but more so in some situations. An aggressive acne treatment program is your best defense against acne scars - you'll be on your way to better skin in no time.

Also be sure to check out our pages about how to get rid of acne, acne medication, acne scar treatments, and laser treatment for acne elsewhere on this site.