Avoiding Acne Scars: Basic Steps to Prevent the Marks from Appearing

Acne at its most developed stage can leave unsightly marks. Since all of us would rather not undergo any surgical procedure or live with these marks for the rest of our lives, prevention is still the wisest path to take. There are a number of things that we need to remember when it comes to avoiding acne scars.

1. Don't pick your pimples. No rubbing, no squeezing, no nothing. Don't touch your face or your acne. Your hands are not the best tools for treating zits, particularly if you keep forgetting to scrub them clean.

2. Wash your face gently. Again, don't rub. Wash your face using a gentle, circular motion. Use clean towels to dry your skin. Don't wipe it dry, just pat it gently and don't use rough cloths. And choose the right facial wash for your type of skin.

3. Address the problem of acne at its earliest period. Don't wait until your pimples are at their worst before seeking professional help or getting treatment. The earlier the condition is arrested, the better your chances of avoiding scars.

4. Know your family history. Are you keloidal or do you have a tendency to form keloids? If it runs in the family, chances are, you are. If you've had injuries before and they turn into thick scars after healing, then every wound or injury will likely turn out the same when they heal. People who have a tendency to form keloids should always cure skin problems at the onset so that they will not leave marks.

5. Seek professional help. The earlier, the better. The sooner you address your skin problem, be it acne or other conditions, the better your chances of keeping your skin smooth. A regular visit to a skin clinic is also recommended even if you don't have acne. Getting your skin pampered and treated regularly is as good a prevention step as any.

Acne scarring can be avoided. We just need to get rid of the habit of picking on our skin spots and putting our hands in our faces. Seeking expert help, particularly at the onset of the acne, is also a must.