What is the difference between acne marks and acne scars?

Acne marks and acne scars are common after-effects of acne but differ significantly in their appearance, causes, and treatments. Here's a quick breakdown:

Acne Marks

• Description:
• Flat discolorations left behind after a pimple heals.
• Can appear as red, pink, or brown spots depending on skin tone.
• Cause:
• Caused by inflammation during the healing process, leading to temporary hyperpigmentation.
• Characteristics:
• Surface-level and temporary; fade on their own over time.
• No change in skin texture.
• Treatment:
• Can be treated with topical creams, serums containing vitamin C, niacinamide, or AHAs/BHAs.
• Chemical peels and laser treatments can speed up fading.

Acne Scars

• Description:
• Permanent indentations or raised areas on the skin.
• Results from damage to the deeper layers of the skin.
• Cause:
• Severe acne damages collagen during the healing process, leading to irregular tissue repair.
• Characteristics:
• Changes skin texture and can appear as:
• Atrophic scars: Depressed areas like ice-pick, boxcar, or rolling scars.
• Hypertrophic scars: Raised areas due to excess collagen.
• Treatment:
• Requires advanced treatments like microneedling, laser therapy, dermal fillers, or chemical peels.
• Over-the-counter treatments are less effective for deep scars.

Key Difference

• Marks: Temporary discoloration with no texture changes.
• Scars: Permanent skin texture changes requiring professional treatment.