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How to Get Rid of Acne Scars, According to Dermatologists

How to Get Rid of Acne Scars and Marks, According to Dermatologists

How to Get Rid of Acne Scars, According to Dermatologists
Image Source: Getty / Chanintorn Vanichsawangphan

With so many people experiencing breakouts during the pandemic (hi, maskne), the concern around blemishes and the unwanted parting gifts — aka acne scars or marks — they leave behind has only grown. First, the bad news: getting rid of acne scars isn't entirely possible. Once a pimple has scarred, the damage is done (which is why most dermatologists advise against picking).

Now for the good news: what you might think is scarring is often just post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or erythema (brown or red spots), rather than a textual change of the skin. Plus, even if they are in fact scars, there are ways to minimize the appearance of acne marks. All it takes is using the right products and treatments in your skin-care routine.

That's where we come in. We spoke with a handful of experts — including two board-certified dermatologists, Anna Guanche, MD, and Dendy Engelman, MD, and New York City aesthetician Taylor Worden — to get their recommendations for treating, preventing, and minimizing the appearance of acne scars and marks. If you want information on how to fade acne scars, keep reading for more.

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