Are You Treating Acne or Scars? Avoid This Mistake

Many patients visit dermatology clinics unsure whether they have active acne, leftover acne scars, or both. This confusion often leads to the wrong products, delayed results, and worsening skin texture. It’s important to understand that active acne and acne scars are two very different skin concerns — and they each require a unique treatment approach.

As an experienced skin doctor in Lucknow, I often explain the distinction in simple terms to help patients choose the right solution. This blog will help you understand how to identify, manage, and treat both conditions effectively.

 

What’s the Difference Between Active Acne and Acne Scars?

The difference lies in timing and structure:

• Active acne refers to current breakouts like whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts.

• Acne scars appear after the acne heals, especially if it was severe, inflamed, or picked at. These are marks left behind after active acne has subsided.

If your skin has red, painful bumps or pus-filled lesions — you’re likely dealing with active acne. On the other hand, if you’re seeing flat marks or indentations, it’s scarring.

 

Types of Active Acne and How They Turn into Scars

Here’s how common acne types contribute to scarring:

• Whiteheads and blackheads (non-inflammatory) usually don’t cause scarring unless picked.

• Papules and pustules may lead to dark spots or shallow scarring if popped.

• Nodules and cysts, the deeper forms of acne, are most likely to cause pitted or raised scars.

Understanding this progression is essential. Many patients ask: Can acne scars be prevented?
Yes — by treating active acne early and avoiding squeezing or touching pimples.

 

How to Treat Active Acne Effectively

If you’re still breaking out, your first step is to control inflammation and prevent future pimples. At our clinic in Lucknow, we offer:

• Topical treatments: Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene

• Oral medications: Antibiotics, isotretinoin, or hormone-regulating pills for severe acne

• In-clinic therapies: Salicylic or glycolic acid peels, hydrafacial for acne-prone skin

• Lifestyle guidance: Skin-safe makeup, diet changes, and skincare routines

For customized acne care, you can explore our comprehensive acne treatment plans in Lucknow.

 

How to Identify Acne Scars on Your Skin

Once your acne heals, you’re left with:

• Pigmentation (dark spots) – not technically scars, but a post-inflammatory response

• Atrophic scars – indentations (like icepick, rolling, or boxcar scars)

• Hypertrophic scars – raised, thick scars (less common but harder to fade)

Many patients mistake pigmentation for permanent scars. While pigmentation may fade with time or peels, true scars need more advanced care.

Best Treatments for Acne Scars in Lucknow

Our dermatology clinic in Lucknow provides a range of scientifically backed acne scar treatments, customized according to your scar pattern and skin needs :

 

• Microneedling with PRP – Stimulates collagen, effective for boxcar and rolling scars

• Fractional CO2 Laser – Targets deeper indentations and textural irregularities

• TCA Cross and Subcision – For stubborn icepick or tethered scars

• Chemical Peels – Helps with pigmentation and surface smoothness

• Scar Fillers or RF Microneedling – For visible improvement in texture

Learn more about acne scar removal options available at our clinic.

 

Skincare Tips to Prevent Future Breakouts and Scars

To prevent recurring acne and scarring:

• Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser twice daily

• Moisturize even if your skin feels oily

• Never skip sunscreen — it prevents scars from darkening

• Don’t pick at your pimples — this is the #1 cause of scars

• Follow a maintenance plan with your dermatologist

Need help building one? Read our guide to building a skincare routine.

 

Natural Ingredients: Do They Help?

Home remedies like aloe vera or tea tree oil may soothe skin but do little for deep scars or cystic acne. We recommend using them only as complementary care, never as the main treatment.

For gentle home care tips, check out these DIY skincare remedies.

 

Expert Advice from a Skin Doctor in Lucknow

Not sure whether you’re facing fresh breakouts, leftover scars, or a mix of both? Let our experts examine your skin and guide you with clarity. Getting a dermatologist’s opinion can save you from months of trial and error.

If scars are already affecting your confidence, start your treatment early. Scars often improve more effectively when treated early — ideally within the first several months after acne clears.

Final Words from Your Dermatologist

It’s time to stop self-diagnosing. Whether you’re battling breakouts or living with old acne scars, there are proven solutions that work — you don’t need to rely on guesswork anymore.

At our skin clinic in Lucknow, we don’t just treat skin problems — we restore confidence.

Let’s treat your acne. Let’s heal your scars.

We’re conveniently located in Indira Nagar, Thakurganj, and Chowk, making it easy for you to access expert acne scar treatment near you.

Book your appointment now at your nearest branch:

 1. Indira Nagar: The Velvet Skin Centre–Dermatologist in Lucknow, Hair & Skin Clinic, PRP, Laser Hair Removal, Hair Specialist Doctor
Address: 23, Amrapali Market, B Block, Indira Nagar, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226016
Mobile: 8002558860

2. Thakurganj: The Velvet Skin Centre-Dermatologist in Lucknow, Hair & Skin Clinic, Skin Specialist Lucknow
Address: Near Ghante Wala Sweets, Thakurganj, Daulatganj, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226003
Mobile: 8002558860

3. Chowk: Dr Asma M.D – Dermatologist in Lucknow, Hair & Skin Clinic, Skin Specialist, Hair Specialist Doctor
Address: Subhash Chandra Bose Complex Mandi Crossing, Victoria St, Chowk, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226003
Mobile: 9335312242

 

FAQs: What Patients Ask Me the Most

Q1. Can acne scars be removed permanently?
Some scars can be significantly reduced or removed, while others may need maintenance. Treatment varies based on scar type.

Q2. Do dark spots after acne mean permanent scarring?
No. These are post-inflammatory marks and usually fade with peels or sunscreen. True scars are textural.

Q3. Which treatment is best for acne scars?
Microneedling with PRP, fractional lasers, and subcision work well depending on scar type. A dermatologist will guide you.

Q4. Can I treat acne and scars together?
Yes. Some treatments like PRP and peels target both. But active acne should be under control before aggressive scar treatment.

Q5. How much does it cost to treat acne scars in Lucknow?
It varies based on the treatment plan and severity. We offer customized, affordable packages for all skin types.