Acne scars are a common skin concern, especially among individuals with darker skin types, classified as Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI. These scars can be emotionally and physically distressing, impacting self-esteem and quality of life. To address them effectively, it is crucial to understand how these scars form and the different types that may occur.
Acne is a result of inflammation in the sebaceous glands, leading to clogged pores and subsequent formation of pimples. While most pimples heal without leaving a mark, some lead to permanent scars due to the damage caused to the underlying skin tissue. These scars can be categorized primarily into atrophic and hypertrophic scars. Atrophic scars, such as ice-pick, boxcar, and rolling scars, occur as depressions on the skin surface due to inadequate healing. Conversely, hypertrophic scars, including keloids, are raised due to an excess of scar tissue production during the healing process.
Understanding the mechanisms behind acne scar development helps in selecting appropriate treatments tailored to individual needs, particularly for darker skin types, to minimize the risk of hyperpigmentation and changes in skin texture.
