As much as we hate it, pimples do have a habit of just ‘popping up’, and when they do, we just want them to go away – fast.

Unfortunately, at times, acne blemishes can leave behind traces after a pimple disappears, in the form of a dark spot. And as much frustrating as this can be, it’s not actually all that uncommon. Acne breakouts can also leave scars on your face and other parts of the body.

The good news is that both acne scars and dark marks can be treated. Here’s how:

Knowing the Difference between Dark Spots and Scars

Before discussing the treatments, it’s important to know the difference between acne scars and dark spots.

Acne scars, for example, can be difficult to remove entirely, and even though they may fade over the passage of time, they tend to remain visible.

Acne dark spots, however, lie flat against your skin’s surface and tend to become lighter with time. They will eventually go away altogether.

Treatments for Acne Dark Spots and Scars – Home Remedies

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera contains a special healing and anti-inflammatory agent that can heal acne hark spots. Simply extract some gel out of an Aloe Vera leaf and apply it directly on your dark spots and/or scars. Leave it in for 30 minutes.

Lemon

Lemons work brilliantly as a natural bleaching agent and may lighten acne scars on your skin. As an added bonus you’ll also be able to get rid of dead skin cells and promote new cell growth.

Using a cotton bud, apply some freshly squeezed lemon juice onto your acne spots. After 10 minutes, rinse off with warm water.

Baking Soda

Baking soda happens to be an effective way to remove acne scars, one layer at a time, due to its mild exfoliate properties. Pour two teaspoons and some water into a bowl, and make a thin paste. Apply the mixture and rinse off after a few minutes.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is abundant in fatty acids and Vitamin E, which can help you deal with acne dark spots and especially scars.

Massage coconut oil into your dark spots and for the scars, warm it up a little beforehand, and massage into affected area for 5-10 minutes. After an hour, rinse off with warm water.

Treatments for Acne Dark Spots and Scars – OTC Products

There are plenty of OTC products you can find to help deal with acne dark spots, although it’s hard to say if they will be just as effective for acne scars. It’s always a good idea to consult your dermatologist.

These include:

• Kojic acid
• Hydroquinone
• Mandelic acid
• Retinoids
• Tocopherol
• Azelaic acid

Dermatologist Treatments for Acne Dark Spots and Scars

If any of the above home remedies or OTC products do not yield the desired results, then perhaps it is time to set up an appointment with your dermatologist, who may recommend anything from laser surfacing to microdermabrasion and chemical peels.