Post-acne marks, which appear as red or brown discolorations on the skin, are medically known as post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). These marks are common, but treatable concerns among many acne patients.
While these marks are not acne scars and typically fade over time, there are ways to speed up the process and improve their appearance.
What Causes Post-Acne Red & Brown Marks?
Red and brown marks appear on the skin when inflammation from acne damages blood vessels. This inflammation triggers an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, leading to these marks. PIE is characterized as leaving red and pink marks behind while PIH leaves behind brown marks.
PIE is more likely to occur in people with lighter skin tones while PIH is more common among those with darker skin.
There are several factors that can contribute to PIE and PIH. Some of these include more severe acne breakouts, such as nodules and cysts, which are more likely to leave behind marks. Additionally, picking or squeezing pimples can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of developing these marks. Sun exposure also plays a role as ultraviolet (UV) rays can darken PIE and PIH, making them more noticeable and prolonging their fading time.
Treatment Options for Post-Acne Marks
If you’re concerned about marks left behind from acne, there are several treatment options available. PIE can be treated with topical creams containing ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, or vitamin C. These ingredients help reduce inflammation and promote skin healing. PIH can also be addressed with topical treatments, containing ingredients like hydroquinone, retinoids, or kojic acid. These ingredients work to lighten the darkened areas and promote skin cell turnover.
Some people may use professional treatments such as laser treatments, to help speed up the process of reducing the red and brown marks.
How Does the Genesis Procedure Work for Red & Brown Marks?
Genesis is a non-invasive laser treatment offered by Advanced Dermatology to help treat post-acne red and brown marks. The Genesis procedure is a gentle and painless laser treatment that requires no downtime. It works by using a laser to gently heat the skin, resulting in the production of new skin cells and collagen. This can help improve redness, uneven color, pore size, and small scars.
This treatment is not painful; it feels like a warm wand is moving over your skin. The treated area never gets hot, so anesthesia is not necessary. The laser pulses are very short and frequent.
What Benefits Can I Expect from Treatment?
With each Genesis laser treatment, patients can expect to see a gradual reduction in redness and a more balanced skin tone and color. Immediately after treatment, the skin may look brighter and smoother, but a series of 3 to 5 treatments is usually recommended for best results.
How Does This Treatment Differ From Alternatives?
Topical treatments like vitamin C, niacinamide, retinoids, and exfoliating acids work on the skin’s surface by gradually reducing redness and pigmentation over time. However, with the Genesis laser treatment, it penetrates deeper into the skin, stimulating collagen production and targeting blood vessels that cause redness (PIE). The laser treatment addresses the underlying cause of red and brown marks while topical treatments mainly manage the visible marks on the skin’s surface.
Advanced Dermatology has offices in Lincolnshire and Glencoe and can assist you with all of your skin concerns, including red and brown post-acne marks. Contact Advanced Dermatology today to set up your consultation.
