Inflamed blemishes or acne such as cysts, papules and pustules can result in pitted acne scarring. This is because the cysts form on the bottom layers of the skin and when the cyst has healed it leaves behind a gap between the skin’s layers. The upper layers of skin above ‘sink’ to fill the gap, causing a pitted, dimpled appearance.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or dark marks (also known as macular scars) left behind after acne has healed are caused by a buildup of melanin in the skin. They aren’t strictly ‘scars’ as they aren’t usually permanent, however, they may take months or even years to disappear altogether without treatment.

People with dark skin tones are more susceptible to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Some people may be more susceptible to pitted acne scarring if they have thin skin. This can be caused by low collagen levels (i.e. in ageing or sun-damaged skin), over-exfoliation or genetics. Some types of pitted acne scarring include;

• Box scars: steep round scars which resemble the scars left behind after chicken pox.
• Rolling scars: wide, shallow undulations in the skin caused by damage beneath the surface.
• Ice pick scars: deep, narrow scars, which may resemble large open pores.

Acne scarring can’t always be prevented, but there are steps you can take to minimise the after-effects of acne, including:

• Protecting your skin from sun exposure
• Avoiding picking, squeezing or scratching your acne
• Seeking advice and professional treatments designed to target acne whilst it is active
• Medication