While acne is often regarded as a teenage ailment, the skin condition can leave marks that affect many people for years after the blemishes clear up. But before you treat the scarred areas, you should consider your coloring.
"Fair skin usually ends up with red marks, while darker skin tends to get brown spots," New York-based dermatologist Anne Chapas told InStyle magazine. Different skin tones, then, require different types of products to combat the scars.
According to Chapas, women with olive skin and darker complexions should look for a product with two percent hydroquinone. The news source recommends Murad Post-Acne Spot Lightening Gel, which will fade acne marks while it improves skin's clarity and reduces irritation.
Gals with lighter skin should use an exfoliant with salicylic or glycolic acid. Peter Thomas Roth Potent Botanical Skin Brightening Gel Complex is hydroquinone-free and contains salicylic acid to even out skin tone. PCA Skin Blemish Control Bar (pHaze 32) cleanses and conditions skin while reducing the appearance of scars.
Since some products require a bit of time to work, you may not see results immediately, but a great concealer can help you mask the marks in the meantime. A green cover-up is ideal for red spots and a yellow concealer is best for brown and purple-colored scars.
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