What causes acne scars and hyperpigmentation
Acne scars appear when inflammation damages the collagen and elastin fibres in the skin. The more severe the acne, the deeper the damage, as it affects not only the surface layer but also the deeper structures of the skin.
This calls for a longer recovery process and the production of connective tissue with a different texture to the rest of the skin, which is where visible marks form.
Frequently touching and squeezing spots further spreads the infection and deepens the damage, one of the most common causes of scarring and hyperpigmentation.
Once the wound has healed, skin sometimes responds with increased melanin production in the affected areas, known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It appears as marks in various colours, from pink and red to brown or darker shades.
Types of acne marks: pigmentation spots and scars
Not all acne marks look the same, and recognising them helps you choose the right care. Pigmentation spots are flat and a different colour to the surrounding skin, while true scars often change its texture too. Here's a quick comparison of the most common types:
| Type of mark | What it looks like |
|---|---|
| Pigmentation spots | Flat areas with a brown, pink or reddish tone that darken in the sun |
| Atrophic scars | Slightly indented areas with an uneven texture, resulting from collagen loss |
| Post-acne redness | Pink-red marks straight after inflammation subsides, usually temporary |
Hypertrophic and the rarer keloid scars are raised, with a rougher, drier texture, caused by excess collagen production during healing. They cover the area where the spot used to be, and sometimes extend beyond it.
How to spot pigmentation marks early
Because of the damage, skin in these areas is often rougher, drier and uneven in texture. Pigmentation spots are usually brown or reddish, and their exact shade depends on your skin tone, the depth of the damage and the degree of darkening. It's worth knowing that they can darken further with prolonged sun exposure, especially without sun protection.
That's why we recommend applying suitable sun protection for your skin type every day, regardless of the season. It's one of the simplest steps that helps support the fading appearance of existing marks and helps prevent new ones from forming.
Natural ways to help fade marks
There are various dermatological procedures for scars, such as ultrasound treatment, chemical peels or LED masks, but these are often expensive or unsuitable for some skin types.
That's why we want to tell you about the natural solutions nature offers us, namely InaEssentials' 100% organic products, whose herbs the Ralchev family grows and processes in their own distillery in the town of Panagyurishte.
Here are the actives that most often help support the fading appearance of marks and soothe skin after acne:
For oily skin, combining organic white fir water with a drop of lavender essential oil directly on the mark can also be a good option, as lavender helps soothe redness. It's important to apply the oil only locally, not across the whole face, to avoid unnecessary irritation.
A routine for acne scars by skin type
For skin prone to dryness and normal skin, we recommend a three-step routine built around our Hyperpigmentation RoutINA™ line. In the morning, cleanse your face with a natural herbal soap with Damask rose and geranium oil, then apply organic white fir water to support regeneration and help even out skin tone.
In the evening, repeat the cleansing step and finish with the Hydrobiotic serum with rose, white fir and lemon peel, which supports the skin's overnight regeneration.
Consistency is key, as natural actives work gradually but gently. Here's what you can realistically expect over time:
When marks need a dermatologist's attention
Natural care is a wonderful support for the skin, but in more severe cases it's a good idea to see a specialist. Here's when it's advisable to book a consultation:
- You notice keloid or strongly raised scars that itch or hurt
- Acne is cystic and leaves deep, indented scars
- Pigmentation spots show no fading at all after several months of care
- You notice signs of infection: heat, severe pain or pus
- Scars affect a large part of the face and seriously affect your confidence
Take a look at our routine Hyperpigmentation RoutINA™, created specifically for skin with pigmentation spots and acne marks.
As a complement to the routine, many customers also choose Hydrobiotic - Rose, White Fir & Lemon peel, which supports overnight regeneration and strengthens the skin barrier.
Helps even out tone and soothes skin under stress from acne
Refreshes and helps regenerate the skin, supporting faster recovery
Gives the complexion a radiant look and helps support the skin's microbiota balance
The combination of actives works gradually, without irritating the skin
Hyperpigmentation RoutINA™
A three-step routine made entirely from herbal actives grown by the Ralchev family. Helps even out skin tone and helps support the fading appearance of marks and acne marks with regular use.
This wonder water is just perfect! My skin is getting better every single day, it's so hydrated, and when I use it with my rose cream, the feeling is even more amazing. Besides the brilliant results, the scent alone has me hooked! I honestly think I've found my holy grail skincare, won't be swapping this out anytime soon.
Delighted with your product. Would definitely recommend! ❤️
I've only been using it for a short while, but I can't help but notice the quality of the product. My skin feels really soft and smooth after putting it on. Even though I only use it once a day. I'd highly recommend it.
About the InaEssentials family
InaEssentials is a Bulgarian family business with over 25 years of experience in organic farming and natural cosmetics using rose oil, herbal waters and actives from their own plantations. Every product is created with care for the skin and respect for nature.
Frequently asked questions
Important information
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with a doctor or dermatologist. InaEssentials products are cosmetic, not medicinal, and results may vary from person to person.
