Pockmarks on Face: Causes & Treatments

In India, where flawless, blemish free skin is desired by almost everyone, pockmarks can be quite distressing to deal with. 

Irrespective of the gender, a clear and smooth facial skin is one of the first things people notice and appreciate about us. While pockmarks by themselves are perfectly harmless, their presence can greatly diminish your overall appearance, affecting your confidence.

What’s worse, our weather and our diet don’t help at all. The hot and humid climate in most parts of the country except the extreme north and parts of North East, coupled with high air pollution in most metros wreak havoc on the skin especially during the teenage years leading to severe bouts of acne. They can also be caused by infections or diseases like chickenpox. I know, it’s super frustrating, especially when they mess with your self-esteem

While pockmarks and acne have similar antecedents, there are some clear differences between the two. Pockmarks dig deep and usually don’t heal on their own. For a permanent fix, pockmarks need special treatment. 

Acne on the other hand leads to scars that typically heal on their own or can be treated with. OTC products with some degree of success.  acne scars can be different types like rolling, boxcars, and ice-pick scars. They can be raised or depressed, depending on the damage. But when they leave deep pits into your skin, which have failed to heal on their own, you should seek specialized treatment.

Genetics obviously plays a big role too. If you heard your parents talk about their dreaded teenage years and their painful battles with acne, chances are that you’d get them as well. 

Plus, your choice of diet can also make ance worse. If you’re constantly snacking on lots of sugary or fried stuff, it can spike your insulin, which increases oil production, causing more acne and chances of more pockmarks.

Understanding Stress – the Principal Psychological Cause for Acne 

Stress when allowed to fester and grow and become overwhelming. It affects all aspects of your life – from your mood to your diet and even your energy levels. It doesn’t spare your looks either and and for those dealing with facial pockmarks, it can make matters worse. Research shows that stress can indirectly lead to pockmarks by inducing acne, which given your mood, often gets ignored and this can result in scarring. Stress also alters your hormone levels and reduces immunity, often worsening acne symptoms and increasing the severity of lesions. This, in turn, raises the risk of developing pockmarks.

Stress also affects the body’s healing capabilities, making it sluggish and impeding its ability to to release the necessary hormones to to  overcome skin conditions. This gives acne more time to stay active while making breakouts more frequent. This in turn increases the likelihood of  pockmarks forming or becoming more pronounced. Thus stress is double whammy when it comes to the development and healing of acne can be particularly challenging for those already struggling with their skin’s appearance.

How to Prevent and Manage Pockmarks

It’s a fact that dealing with pockmarks can be quite distressing. It impacts not only your appearance but also your emotional well-being. Thankfully, over the last few years several effective and pocket friendly treatments have emerged for preventing and treating pockmarks effectively in the earlier stages.  This useful handbook prepared by Bodycraft combines the best tips to deal with pockmarks 

Visit The Doctor ASAP

According to the experts at Bodycraft “The best way to treat pockmarks and scarring with  is prompt treatment of active acne,”

Dr. Mikki Singh, senior Dermatologist and medical director at Bodycraft clinic also stresses the importance of leaving your skin alone. “It can sometimes be extremely tempting to pick or pop your pimples, but this habit can easily lead to scarring." Instead use the the pointers mentioned below to prevent and manage acne in their earliest stages

Visit a dermatologist

Don’t risk trying to manage persistent acne with homemade concoctions. Instead, take an appointment with a dermatologist to figure out the cause and cure for your acne. Acne can be caused by a whole host of reasons and that’s and your dermatologist can provide tailored advice and recommend treatments that suit your specific skin needs, helping you prevent acne scarring more effectively.

Early intervention is the most effective way to stop acne from “acting up" and turning scars or pockmarks.

For the best treatment options for your skin type, book a 100% free consultation with the specialists at Bodycraft. If you’re struggling with severe acne and scarring, Bodycraft can help you discover an effective treatment plan absolutely free of cost. 

Consider Topical Retinoids

When used under the strict guidance of your dermatologist, topical retinoids can prove to be quite effective in treating and preventing acne scars. These gels and creams promote cell turnover and clear clogged pores, reducing the likelihood of severe acne leading to pockmarks. Retinoids are also prescribed to hasten the healing process of existing acne. While they are a valuable part of your skincare regimen, retinoids should strictly be used as prescribed by your dermatologist as they can be somewhat harsh. So don’t mix products or increase their potency without consulting your doctor 

Silicone Gel Can Help

Silicone gel is a real game changer for those prone to developing hypertrophic scars and keloids. The treatment works though pretty slowly by flattening and smoothing out raised scars. With regular application of the gel, you should start seeing visible changes between 3-6 months, depending on the severity of your scarring

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

There’s nothing worse for your acne scars than the harsh UV rays of the sun. Sun exposure can darken scars and make them look more pronounced. The added sun burn can significantly increase the time and effort it takes to clear those scars.

So always wear  protective clothing & using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF that’s at least 45 or above. It’s also best to avoid stepping out between 2 PM to 4 PM during the months of June and August, if you’re undergoing treatment for acne. 

Consistent sun protection goes a long way in helping prevent existing scars from worsening while greatly reducing the risk of new pockmarks forming.

Get Serious About Your Skincare Routine

And we mean it too! A consistent skincare routine is vital for managing acne and preventing pockmarks. However, skip those abrasive scrubs or exfoliants that can irritate the skin and trigger an acne attack. Instead, trust mild cleansers and gel based face washes with natural ingredients like neem and aloe vera to keep your skin clean and hydrated.

Say No Artificial Cosmetic Products

If your cosmetics are packed with chemicals, they can severely irritate the skin and contribute to acne. Limit their use or lock them away for duration of your battle with acne. Instead choose products which have specially been designed for acne prone for sensitive skin. These products would be recommended to you by your dermatologist and will help maintain a healthy complexion and prevent pockmarks.

Balance Your Diet 

If you can’t seem to get rid of acne despite using a bunch of medications and products, look into your diet. Are you snacking on junk? If so, how much? Steer clear or fried, oily food and reduce your intake colas and other sugary delights. Instead, prepare a meal plan rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains which would support your overall skin health and work reduces inflammation. Avoiding high-glycemic foods that can spike insulin levels and trigger acne outbreaks is also beneficial. Incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods can help keep your skin clear and reduce the risk of scarring.

Manage that Stress

Stress can greatly acne and impede the healing process, making it crucial to incorporate stress management techniques into your routine. Regular exercise, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels and improve your skin’s resilience against acne and pockmarks

Treatments for Pockmarks

Living with pockmarks can literally be scarring, and can severely dent your confidence and self esteem.

At Bodycraft, we fully understand how such superficial imperfections can get in the way of you living your life to the fullest. We have developed a range of treatments designed to help you achieve smoother, clearer skin, tailored to your individual needs.

Get started with Chemicals Peels

Chemical peels can work wonders on pockmarked skin by gently removing the top layer. This allows new, healthy skin to emerge, reducing the appearance of pigmentation and scarring.

According to the specialists at Bodycraft, “Chemical peels are well tolerated by all skin types and can be a great way to maintain and he the skin.”

Chemical peels are effective compared to physical exfoliators including the likes of topical scrubs. The controlled trauma that’s caused by the active ingredients is not only more effective at removing the superficial dead skin cells, but the intentional damage caused to the deeper layers, stimulates the body to increase the  production of collagen, which can help fill in scars.

Microneedling with Dermapen

Over the last decade or so, microneedling with Dermapen has emerged as the preferred treatment protocol for pockmarks as well as severe acne pits and scars. I know, the process may look a little scary but there is minimal discomfort and the effects are truly worth it. These little injuries make your skin go on an overdrive to heal itself. The tiny pricks stimulate your skin collagen and elastin production. This over a few sessions reduces acne scars, pockmarks, pigmentation and more.

Things about Dermapen microneedling:

– Makes your skin firmer and smoothing by boosting collagen production 

– It helps reduce post-acne marks, scarring, and uneven skin texture.

–  You’d see an immediate and visible improvement in skin texture and complexion, giving you a youthful and glowing complexion.

– The procedure also diminishes the appearance of pores, blackheads & whiteheads as well as wrinkles and fine lines.

Microneedling with Radio Frequency (MNRF)

MNRF Treatment is like the next level. It combines microneedling with radio-frequency energy. So in addition to stimulating the superficial epidermis, the needles also deliver healing radiofrequency waves into the deeper layers of your skin. This super charges the production of collagen for faster, better and more long lasting results

MNRF to treat various facial imperfections like:

– Pockmarks caused by ailments like chicken pox, severe acne scars and open pores.

– Wrinkles and sagging skin

– Stretch marks.

Under highly controlled and sterilized conditions at the hands of experienced and compassionate Bodycraft specialists MNRF would be administered. The process would  make your skin grow new collagen, visibly reducing the appearance of pockmarks and scars, giving your face a fresh and dewy glow.

Needless to say, these treatments are done by Bodycraft’s expert dermatologists. The environment is super clean and sterile and all our treatments are done using FDA-approved products. 

To know more about Microneedling & MNRF 

& get a personalized treatment Plan for your specific Issue, Book a Complimentary Consultation with our Specialists at Bodycraft.

Your complimentary consultation would include an after carefully analyzing your issue and the level of severity, we’d chalk out a  treatment plan. Additionally, you’d receive detailed pre- and post-care guidance to make sure you get the best results and stay comfortable during the process.

And guess what? 

The best part is that there’s minimal downtime, so you won’t have to hide away for long. Within as less as 48 hours you can be out and about, as long as you take the necessary precautions to shield your still sensitive skin. 

If you’re tired of dealing with acne scars and other skin issues, these microneedling treatments at Bodycraft might be just what you need!

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers provide an immediate solution by injecting substances directly into pockmarks, plumping up the skin and creating a smoother appearance. Depending on the filler used, results can last from six months to indefinitely. While fillers carry risks such as irritation, infection, and allergic reactions, they offer a quick and effective way to enhance skin texture.

Laser Resurfacing

For more intensive treatment, laser resurfacing is highly effective. Ablative lasers remove thin skin layers, significantly reducing pockmarks with results that can last for years. This treatment involves a 1-2 week downtime and risks like further scarring, pigmentation changes, and redness. Non-ablative lasers, which stimulate collagen production, are less invasive but may require multiple sessions for lasting results.

The Takeaway

At Bodycraft, our goal is to provide compassionate, personalized care. Consulting with a dermatologist is crucial to determine the best treatment plan for your skin type and needs. Often, a combination of treatments yields the best results, helping you achieve the smooth, clear skin you deserve.

FAQs Around Pockmarks 

1. What are pockmarks?

 Pockmarks are deep scars on the skin, often resulting from severe acne, infections, or diseases like chickenpox.

2. How do pockmarks differ from regular acne scars?

 Pockmarks are deeper and usually don’t heal on their own, requiring special treatment.

3. What are common causes of pockmarks in India?

 Hot and humid climate, high air pollution, severe acne during teenage years, infections, and poor diet.

4. Can genetics influence the development of pockmarks? 

Yes, genetics play a significant role; if your parents had severe acne, you might be more prone to it as well.

5. How does stress impact acne and pockmarks? 

Stress can worsen acne by altering hormone levels and reducing immunity, leading to more severe outbreaks and potential scarring.

6. What are some preventive measures for pockmarks? 

Early intervention with a dermatologist, avoiding picking pimples, and using recommended skincare products.

7. How can diet affect acne and pockmarks? 

A diet high in sugary or fried foods can increase oil production and worsen acne, leading to more pockmarks.

8. What are effective treatments for pockmarks? 

Treatments include chemical peels, microneedling with Dermapen, microneedling with radiofrequency, laser resurfacing, and dermal fillers.

9. Why is sun protection important for acne scars? 

UV rays can darken scars and prolong healing, so using sunscreen and protective clothing is crucial.