Removing acne scars: What really helps against dark spots?
The pimple is finally gone – but a dark mark remains that just won't disappear. Sound familiar? You're wondering: How do you get rid of acne scars? And most importantly: What really helps against acne scars ?
The good news: It's possible to remove acne scars . Unlike true acne scars, these dark marks on the skin aren't permanent changes to the skin's structure – they can fade much faster with the right care. In this article, you'll learn which active ingredients are scientifically proven, how to get rid of acne scars , and which routine really works.
What are acne scars?
What exactly are acne scars ? Acne scars – medically correctly called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation ( PIH skin for short) – are flat, dark discolorations that remain after inflammation has healed. They are not scars, but rather pigment changes.
If your skin has been inflamed by a pimple, it produces excess melanin as a reaction. This melanin accumulates in the upper layers of skin and leaves dark spots on the face or body – even long after the actual pimple has healed.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: The cause
A study by Davis & Callender in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology explains the mechanism: During inflammation, inflammatory mediators are released that stimulate melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). The result: Hyperpigmentation on the face or other affected areas.
Typical triggers for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation :
- Squeezed or manipulated pimples
- Inflammatory acne
- Skin injuries and scratches
- Insect bites
- Allergic reactions
- Aggressive skin treatments
Pimple marks vs. acne scars: The difference
Many people mistake pimple marks for acne scars – but they are completely different skin changes:
Acne scars (PIH):
- Flat discolorations (brown, red, violet)
- No change in skin texture
- They fade over time on their own.
- Can be accelerated with care?
Acne scars:
- Sunken (atrophic) or raised (hypertrophic) skin changes
- Permanent structural change
- They don't disappear on their own.
- They often require professional treatment (laser, microneedling).
The good news: Most spots that appear as pimples are actually acne scars – and these can be effectively treated with the right care.
How do you get rid of acne scars?
You're wondering: How do you get rid of acne scars? The answer lies in active ingredients that inhibit melanin production and accelerate cell turnover. Draelos (2020) confirms in her review article: Tyrosinase inhibitors are the most effective ingredients for hyperpigmentation.
Removing dark acne scars: The best active ingredients
If you want to remove dark acne scars , you should rely on these scientifically proven active ingredients:
- Kojic acid: Directly inhibits tyrosinase
- Vitamin C: Antioxidant with brightening effect
- Niacinamide: Blocks melanin transfer
- Azelaic acid: Anti-inflammatory and brightening
- Alpha-Arbutin: Gentle tyrosinase inhibitor
Kojic acid for treating pigment spots
Kojic acid is one of the most effective natural ingredients for treating age spots – and especially acne scars. The active ingredient is derived from fermented mushrooms and inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production.
Chang (2009) documented in his study on tyrosinase inhibitors that kojic acid reduces melanin synthesis by up to 90% – without destroying melanocytes. This means that the effect is reversible and the skin remains healthy.
Experiences with kojic acid for treating age spots show: First visible results after 4-8 weeks of daily use. The correct concentration is crucial – too low a concentration is ineffective, too high a concentration can cause irritation.
The Dark Spot Care Serum (€59.90) contains 1% kojic acid – the optimal concentration for effective lightening without irritation. COSMOS natural certified.
Vitamin C: The brightening booster
Vitamin C is a versatile ingredient when it comes to getting rid of acne scars . Telang (2013) summarizes its effects:
- Inhibits tyrosinase (less new pigmentation)
- Neutralizes free radicals (protects against UV damage)
- Promotes collagen production (healthier skin overall)
- Enhances the effect of other skin-lightening agents
The combination of vitamin C with kojic acid – as in the Dark Spot Face Cream (€79.90) – synergistically enhances the brightening effect.
Niacinamide: The Melanin Blocker
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) works differently than tyrosinase inhibitors: it blocks the transfer of melanin from melanocytes to keratinocytes (upper skin cells). Hakozaki et al. (2002) showed that as little as 2% niacinamide significantly reduced hyperpigmentation – comparable to hydroquinone, but without its side effects.
How to get rid of acne scars: The right routine
You now know which active ingredients help. But how do you get rid of acne scars in practice? The answer lies in a consistent routine. Here's a step-by-step plan to get rid of acne scars quickly .
Morning routine for facial hyperpigmentation
In the morning, protection is paramount – you want to prevent new pigmentation from forming.
- Cleaning: Gentle, pH-neutral cleaner
- Vitamin C Serum: Antioxidant protection + brightening
- Moisturizing cream: Strengthen the skin barrier
- Sunscreen SPF 30+: ESSENTIAL!
Cestari et al. (2014) emphasize: Without consistent sun protection, no skin-lightening treatment can be effective in the long term. UV radiation immediately reactivates melanin production.
Evening routine: How to get rid of acne scars quickly
Evening is the time for active brightening – the skin regenerates while you sleep.
- Thorough cleansing: Remove makeup and sunscreen
- Dark Spot Serum : Apply directly to acne scars on the face.
- Dark Spot Face Cream : Apply to the entire face
This combination of concentrated serum for spot treatment and cream for broader care is the most effective strategy if you want to treat dark acne scars .
Exfoliation: Removing blemishes from pimples
Regular exfoliation accelerates cell turnover and thus the fading of acne scars. Sarkar et al. (2012) showed that chemical peels can significantly shorten the treatment time for PIH.
The Brightening Face & Body Exfoliator (€59.90) combines gentle exfoliating particles made of perlite with kojic acid – thus removing dead skin cells and enhancing the brightening effect at the same time.
Application: 2-3 times per week, not on the same evening as highly concentrated serums.
Treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation requires patience and the right strategy. Desai (2014) summarizes the treatment principles.
PIH skin: What you need to know
In PIH skin , there are two forms that are located at different depths:
Epidermal PIH (superficial):
- Brown to dark brown
- It is located in the epidermis
- Responds well to topical treatment
- Fades faster (weeks to months)
Dermal PIH (deep):
- Grey-blue to grey-brown
- It sits in the dermis
- More difficult to treat
- It can take months to years
The good news: Most acne scars are epidermal PIH and respond well to kojic acid pigment spot treatment.
Treating hyperpigmentation: Patience pays off
How long does it take for the treatment to work? These are realistic expectations if you want to treat hyperpigmentation :
- Weeks 1-2: Skin gets used to the active ingredients
- Weeks 3-4: First slight lightening visible
- Months 2-3: Significant improvement
- Months 3-6: Optimal results
Important: Don't give up! Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation treatment takes time – but the results are worth it.
Remedies for acne scars: What really works
Are you looking for an effective remedy for acne scars ? Here are the product categories that really help – and what you can do to see results from acne scars .
Serum for dark spots on the face
A serum is the most concentrated form of treatment. It contains more active ingredients than a cream and penetrates deeper. Ideal for targeted treatment of individual dark spots on the skin .
The Dark Spot Care Serum (€59.90) contains:
- 1% Kojic acid (tyrosinase inhibitor)
- Vitamin C (enhances brightening)
- Organic sea buckthorn oil (regeneration)
- Rosemary extract (antioxidant)
Application: Apply directly to acne scars on the face in the evening, gently patting in.
Cream for acne spots
A cream is ideal for daily, large-area application. It combines brightening ingredients with nourishing properties – important to prevent the skin from drying out.
The Dark Spot Face Cream (€79.90) is perfect for removing acne spots :
- Kojic acid + Vitamin C (whitening)
- Organic jojoba oil (moisture barrier)
- Betaine (deep hydration)
- Vitamin E (anti-aging protection)
COSMOS natural certified – tested natural cosmetics according to the highest standards.
Frequently asked questions about acne scars
What are acne scars and how do they develop?
Acne marks are dark discolorations that remain after acne has healed. The medical term is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). They develop when the skin produces excess melanin after inflammation. Unlike acne scars, acne marks are flat – they don't change the skin's texture, only its color.
How long does it take for acne scars to disappear?
Without treatment, acne scars can take 3-24 months to fade completely. With targeted care—tyrosinase inhibitors like kojic acid, vitamin C, and regular exfoliation—you can speed up the process to 4-8 weeks for initial visible results. Complete lightening usually takes 3-6 months.
What's the best way to get rid of acne scars?
Tyrosinase inhibitors like kojic acid , vitamin C, and niacinamide are the most effective. These active ingredients inhibit melanin production and lighten existing dark spots on the face . Combined with regular exfoliation and consistent sun protection, you'll achieve the best results. The Dark Spot Serum with 1% kojic acid is an effective remedy for acne scars .
Is it possible to get rid of acne scars quickly?
There are no quick fixes – but you can significantly speed up the process. Use brightening serums daily (morning and/or evening), a gentle exfoliator like the Brightening Exfoliator 2-3 times a week, and above all: consistent sun protection. You'll see the first visible improvements after 4-8 weeks – if you want to get rid of acne scars quickly , consistency is key.
What is the difference between pimple marks and acne scars?
Acne marks are flat discolorations of the skin (brown, red, purple) – they fade over time and can be accelerated with skincare. Acne scars, on the other hand, are sunken or raised skin changes that permanently alter the skin's structure. Acne scars often require professional treatments such as laser therapy or microneedling. The spots from pimples that most people have are actually acne marks.
Does vitamin C help against acne scars?
Yes, vitamin C is a proven active ingredient for removing acne scars . It inhibits tyrosinase (the enzyme that produces melanin), neutralizes free radicals, and promotes collagen production. Studies show that vitamin C is particularly effective in combination with other brightening agents such as kojic acid. The Dark Spot Face Cream combines both active ingredients.
Can kojic acid help with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?
Yes, kojic acid is one of the most effective ingredients against post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation . Studies show that kojic acid inhibits tyrosinase by up to 90% and visibly lightens existing discolorations. Unlike hydroquinone, kojic acid has no significant side effects. Kojic acid treatment for pigment spots is safe and effective – consistent sun protection during application is essential.
How do I get rid of dark acne scars on my face?
For dark acne scars on the face, I recommend this routine: In the morning, apply vitamin C serum and sunscreen SPF 30+. In the evening, apply kojic acid serum to the affected areas and then dark spot face cream . Use a gentle brightening scrub 2-3 times a week. You'll see initial results after 4-8 weeks, and complete lightening after 3-6 months. This is how you can remove dark acne scars .