Best Treatment for Acne Scars on Dark Skin

asked 3 years ago by jaydee in Kent, WA
Latest answer by Anifat Balogun, MD
Question viewed 3,600 times
Tags: acne scars, dark

I am 56 years old, have very bad acne scarring on my face. My skin tone is bad, and I have dark skin. I went to a dermatologist years ago, and he told me because of my skin color treatment would make my acne scars look worse. Is there anything I can do?

2 answers to Best Treatment for Acne Scars on Dark Skin

You have safe and effective options.

Acne scarring on skin of color is a complex issue to address and resolve quickly. It requires patience on the part of the patient and the provider. There are no short cuts and steady progress is the goal. It goes without saying that your provider should have experience treating your skin type and your specific issue. Acne sufferers with skin of color typically have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which results in darkening of the skin at the location of the pimple. Insult can be... more

Anifat Balogun, MD
Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon

There is hope

Some very dark-skinned individuals can respond very well to treatment, but unfortunately, some do develop significant lighter skin permanently, or temporary (months to years) of darkening. A test spot should be done first to test your pigment response. This can be done behind the ear so that if the reaction is not favorable it would not be seen on your face. If that test works well, then a second test can be done on the face prior to treating the whole face. If the test shows a poor... more

Ronald Shelton, MD
Manhattan Dermatologist

Ask a question

Get Free Email Updates

Best Treatment for Acne Scars on Dark Skin

You have safe and effective options.

There is hope

Doctors Nearby

Related Acne Scars Treatment Q&A