Achieving Clearer Skin and Preventing Scarring

As a consultant dermatologist, one of the most common concerns my patients bring to me is how to achieve clearer skin while minimising the risk of scarring. The truth is that both of these goals are closely linked: preventing inflammation and treating acne effectively is the best way to avoid lasting marks.

The foundation of good skin health is a gentle, consistent routine. I usually recommend cleansing twice daily, always with a gentle cleanser in the morning and a slightly stronger option, potentially including salicylic or glycolic acid, in the evening. This can be followed by an Acne Day Serum in the morning (I like to use niacinamide, salicylic acid and zinc sulphate) and complementary Acne Night Serum in the evening (such as tretinoin, clindamycin and azelaic acid), suited to your skin’s specific needs. Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen in a thin base is essential, UV exposure not only triggers pigmentation but can also worsen existing scars, so this is a non-negotiable step in all of my patient’s routines.

Speaking of active ingredients, salicylic acid helps to clear pores, clindamycin reduces acne-causing bacteria, and topical retinoids or tretinoin improve cell turnover, addressing both breakouts and early scarring. For patients with more sensitive skin, niacinamide or azelaic acid can calm redness and fade discoloration without irritation.

Once the active acne is being treated, we can begin to focus on potential scarring. With up to 90% of acne cases resulting in some form of scarring, we know how crucial it is to prevent it where possible. For those already dealing with them, we now have such an exciting plethora of lasers in clinic, so it really is a case of tailoring a bespoke treatment plan for each patient, considering factors such as cost, flexibility for downtime and previous treatments. This freedom and adaptability is something I am incredibly proud of as it means we achieve consistently impressive results for each patient.

Clearer skin is absolutely achievable with patience, commitment and the right guidance, from the the right practitioner. If you are struggling, seek professional advice early as this can make all the difference in preventing scars and preserving long-term skin health.