If you’ve suffered from a bout of acne in your life I know you can relate to having a cabinet full of anti-acne products. And let’s be honest, most of them have been pretty useless because you bought them on a whim or thanks to an advert. If only I’d put away a penny instead of shelling out a few for every other TV advert I got sucked into, I’d have a pretty good bank balance today.
Also Read About Best Pimple Removal Cream
Dealing with acne can be dreadful, we hear you. But the post acne inflammation, blemishes and scars are the most frustrating. The acne may leave you eventually, but the scars will always remind you of the horror that once was. We reached out three dermatologists to make your #clearskin dreams come true.
We asked Dr. Jaishree Sharad, Skinfinity Clinics, Dr. Aneesh Sheth, Dr. Sheth’s and Dr. Kiran Lohia, Lumiere Dermatology to help us treat and lighten acne scars, blemishes, uneven skin and pigmentation. And we also asked them how to keep these pesky problems at bay. Here’s everything you need to know.
Don’t pick and squeeze pimples, whiteheads or blackheads.
“You will end up with a stubborn blemish once the inflammation settles. A harsh scrub will do more damage to your skin than good, so stay away from those. Maintain a healthy diet and eat a lot of coloured fruits and vegetables, they help fight inflammation and free-radicals.” says Dr. Jaishree Sharad.
Vitamin C topped the charts. If you want to know exactly WHY we’ve been raving about this magical ingredient, check out this post.
A Vitamin C serum like the VC 15 (Rs 1,900) helps reduce blemishes and give your skin a glow you’ve always longed for.
Retinol helps with scarring, blemishes and wrinkles. The EGA cream (Rs 1,300) has a potent combination of Vitamin K and Retinol. Both ingredients help reduce blemishes with consistent usage. Vitamin K reduces bruises while retinol reduces acne and pigmentation. “Be very careful with retinol,” advises Sharad, “it makes your skin sensitive to the sun, so avoid harsh sun exposure and use it only at night.” And NEVER skip sunblock.
Kojic acid is derived from mushrooms, while they may not be the magic kinds *wink* they will definitely work wonders for blemishes. Kojic acid is a potent skin lightener and has proven to lighten acne scars, blemishes and pigmentation. The Kozilite cream (Rs 349) is something you can try.
Also Read Best Pimple Patches Available In India
Always use a sunscreen during the daytime, even while you’re indoors.
“Believe it or not, the sun’s rays can even cause damage to your skin while you’re indoors. Using a sunscreen every morning will prevent acne and blemishes from darkening due to sun damage. Your blemishes will start fading once the inflammation subsides. Cleanse your face every night with some micellar water and a mild face wash.” says Dr. Aneesh Sheth.
Dr. Sheths Basic Brightening Vitamin Glowtion (Rs 800), has high concentrations of Vitamin A (anti- pigmentation) Vitamin C (brightening) and Vitamin E (repair). This will help get rid of scars, blemishes and pigmentation.
Use a micellar water like the Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water (Rs 786) at night and the A-derma soothing face wash (Rs 479)
Consult a professional to lighten acne scars and blemishes. The longer you wait, the worse it gets.
“If you see a lot of blemishes and pimples, consult a dermatologist at the earliest. Try to avoid foods like dairy and whey protein powders, they cause more harm than good in the long run” says Dr. Kiran Lohia.
Exfoliation with AHA’s and BHA’s ensures that your skin keeps regenerating and increases cell turnover thereby fading blemishes. If the blemishes are too deep or too dark, you may need to consult a dermatologist for laser treatment.
The Bioderma White Objective Fluid (Rs 2,160) contains Azelaic acid, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and other natural actives to prevent acne and help erase marks and blemishes. Use it daily in the morning OR in the evening. And don’t forget to use sunscreen after!
The Bioderma Sebium Global (Rs 1,094) has a combination of AHAs and dermatological agents eradicate blemishes and promote clear skin. With regular use, you will see any redness diminish substantially.
Yep, these recommendations are straight from the horse’s mouth. These dermatologist approved products will have you on your clear skin journey in no time. You’re welcome!
PS: These treatments work well for mild blemishes and scars… if you have a case of cystic acne and a lot of scarring, your best bet would be to CONSULT a dermatologist. If you have an odd pimple or two, you can add these products to their cart safely!
Images via Pexel, Unsplash, Shutterstock
Welcome to #BrandNewPOPxo – POPxo is now more fun when you sign up! App users, you’ll be seeing the change soon!
You Might Like These
15 Home Remedies To Detan Your Skin Naturally
Best Deodorants For Women India
Benefits Of Ubtan For Glowing Skin
Different Ways To Get Rid Of Breast Hair