Hello and thank you for your question. I’m sorry to hear you are currently going through this ordeal. Acne is the most common dermatological condition faced by many people. One of the complications of acne is scarring and black pigmentation on skin. Fortunately acne scars can be treated. However before treatment of the scars, you should treat the root cause of your problem, the acne itself.

This is to prevent formation of more scars. Acne is usually triggered by certain factors such as are oil-based cosmetic products, stress and anxiety, unhealthy eating habits, humidity or exposure to dirt, hormonal changes and physical irritation from headbands or occlusive clothing. It is important for you to identify what is the contributing factor to your acne formation and removing it.

You are advised to follow a routine daily skincare regime using oil-free and gentle products as well as cleanse your skin after sweating and before going to bed. You should also avoid diet rich in oil and fats, and increase intake of fruits and vegetables. After your acne has settled and you do not experience anymore breakouts, you can try to treat your scars. One of the basic treatments of acne spots is to wear sunscreen daily as sun exposure can further darken scars.

You can also use topical products containing alpha hydroxyl acids, lactic acids, topical retinoids or salicylic acids. However it is advisable to get advice from your dermatologists before using these products as they may be a little harsh for your skin.

If these treatments do not work, your doctor may recommend certain procedures such as dermabrasion, chemical peels, laser resurfacing, fillers, microneedling and injections. Acne scars can be debilitating but there are many treatment options. However, the best way to handle acne is prevention.