how to treat acne + post acne marks
acne is frustrating enough — but the marks it leaves behind can feel just as hard to deal with 😮💨 here’s my derm PA breakdown of what to actually use for both active breakouts and the discoloration they leave behind.
for active acne: PanOxyl Creamy Acne Wash (benzoyl peroxide 4%) is my go-to cleanser for targeting acne-causing bacteria, and Differin Gel (adapalene 0.1%) is the only OTC retinoid available — a true game changer for unclogging pores and preventing future breakouts.
for both acne + post-acne marks: Anua Azelaic Acid 10 + Hyaluron is the multitasker of this lineup — it tackles active breakouts and fades discoloration at the same time.
for post-acne marks: La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum pairs their exclusive Melasyl™ ingredient with 10% niacinamide to target stubborn discoloration. and Eucerin Radiant Tone Dual Serum features thiamidol, a patented ingredient that works by blocking the enzyme responsible for melanin production — one of the more underrated dark spot ingredients out there. save this one! 🩺
#Lemon8Partner #acne #hyperpigmentation #SkincareInsider #AskDerm
Dealing with acne and the marks it leaves can be a challenging skincare journey. From my own experience exploring various treatments, I’ve found that consistency and using the right products tailored to your skin type make a huge difference. Benzoyl peroxide cleansers like PanOxyl are excellent at reducing acne-causing bacteria, but they can be drying, so it’s helpful to pair them with hydrating serums or moisturizers to maintain your skin barrier. Differin Gel (adapalene 0.1%) is something I personally tried after struggling with clogged pores; it does take some time to build tolerance, so starting every other night and gradually increasing application helps minimize irritation. Retinoids not only prevent new breakouts but also improve skin texture over time. For post-acne marks, I found products combining niacinamide and ingredients like azelaic acid to be gentle yet effective. La Roche-Posay’s Mela B3 Serum, with its Melasyl™ technology and 10% niacinamide, visibly reduced my stubborn discoloration after consistent use. Another game-changer was Eucerin Radiant Tone Dual Serum containing thiamidol; it targets hyperpigmentation at its core by inhibiting melanin production, which differs from ingredients that only fade spots superficially. Incorporating a multitasker like Anua Azelaic Acid 10 + Hyaluron can simplify the routine, addressing both active acne and marks simultaneously while providing hydration. Remember, treating hyperpigmentation requires patience—it often takes several weeks to notice significant changes. Besides topical treatments, incorporating broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is crucial to prevent darkening of marks and protect healing skin. Also, avoid picking or squeezing pimples to reduce the risk of new marks forming. If you’re exploring these treatments, patch testing and consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional can help tailor the approach to your needs. Combining products with different mechanisms—like benzoyl peroxide’s antibacterial effect and retinoids' cell turnover regulation—while including ingredients that inhibit melanin synthesis offers a comprehensive strategy to clear acne and brighten post-acne marks effectively.
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