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Vitamin C is backed by mounds of research for its ability to minimise hyperpigmented marks, including those left after an acne breakout. You can spot treat the area with a potent dose of vitamin C, but the key is to be consistent with it. You can’t just apply it once and expect the mark to go away. You’ll need to incorporate this into your daily routine until the spot fades completely, which could take several weeks.
Azelaic acid is another top option well documented for its ability to fade post-acne marks. As an added benefit, azelaic acid also helps treat active breakouts thanks to its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Similar to vitamin C, azelaic acid needs to be used consistently to deliver its full potential for fading post-acne marks. Look for a 10% concentration of azelaic acid for best results.
Retinol mostly gets attention as an anti-aging hero, but did you know it also helps with acne and hyperpigmentation? Retinol has been proven to reduce the occurrence of blemishes while also helping to speed up the healing of the marks they leave behind. With retinol, you can expect to see skin’s healthy tone and texture steadily improve. However, if acne has left a noticeably indented or pitted scar (sometimes referred to as an “ice pick” scar).
Niacinamide (also known as vitamin B3) works via several pathways to help even out skin tone and prevent new discolourations from appearing, including blemish spots. Another benefit of niacinamide for acne-prone skin is that it helps balance oil flow and restores enlarged pores back to their normal size. Check your ingredient labels—niacinamide may already be in some of your skin care products, like your moisturiser.
When you have acne-prone skin, it can be tempting to leave sunscreen out of your routine, but that’s a huge mistake. Unprotected sun exposure weakens skin’s healing response and will make post-breakout hyperpigmentation linger much longer. The good news is that while sunscreens of the past erred on the side of heavy/emollient creams, you can find modern day SPF formulas that offer much better, lighter weight consistencies that won’t clog pores.
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