Topical Treatments
Reviews
3.6
1118 Reviews
Topical Treatments
Good or Excellent Response
13%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Moderate Response
49%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Topical Treatments
Side Effects
Low
Topical Treatments
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist or plastic surgeon? Make an appointment to get this procedure done. Don't have a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find a dermatologist or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to find a plastic surgeon. Topical Treatments are also available over-the-counter.
Read All About Topical Treatments
Compare To Other Treatments
5
36%
4
27.1%
3
14.7%
2
9.7%
1
12.5%

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October 26, 2012
Product used: Zenmed (Skin Eraser Kit)
I've just finished using this kit and had great results from it. My skin was heavily scared after I had a bout of really bad acne plus a reaction and rash from a previous medication. I think unless you have extremely sensitive skin this will work pretty well on most people because my skin is a bit sensitive and it didn't bother me much.
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August 31, 2012
Product used: Emu Oil

Pros:

Reduces inflammation, absorbs pretty quickly, leaves skin soft, helps acne redness, DOES NOT clog pores (do your research people!)

Cons:

Texture is oily so use sparingly!

I have VERRRY acne prone skin. I use this product along with a 30% glycolic acid serum daily and I do a home chemical peel (glycolic acid/salicylic acid) weekly and I never break out anymore. I struggled with acne every since I was 12 and finally conquered it at the age of 22. EMU OIL IS DOES NOT CLOG PORES. Use only certified pure emu oil and use only products that does not contain ingredients that will irritate your skin.
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July 17, 2012
Product used: Bio-Oil (Skincare Oil)

Pros:

This actually works! was surprised when I seen results within a week, not sure it will work for some but for my skin this works wonders, better than I expected. I have had acne since 14 and went on to accutane for a year, now (2 years) later I decided to try scar removal treatment and was kind of worried as I didn't want my skin all oily and make me brake out like crazy but it's fine if you use it right and don't apply too much.

Cons:

It will make you break out a little if you use a bit too much.

This treatment is great for scars, makes them fade and reduce the size, hardly noticeable after a week of using this.
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May 31, 2012
Product used: Crusader Ultra (Skin Lightening Cream)

Pros:

It works fast
Vitamin E...so yay :)
Moisturizing
Didn't break me out

Cons:

None.

It's super cheap and I know there's Hydroquinone in it but honestly...it's an FDA approved substance, and you discontinue use as soon as your marks are gone so no big whoop. Plus there's vitamin E in it. Im from the Caribbean and Ive used it after I cleared up my acne and it worked wonders on my dark marks (the bane of the ethnic woman). Now im in Canada and the climate changed caused me to break out horribly :(. I'm looking for this product so if anyone know's where to get it, let me know.
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April 20, 2012
Product used: Bio-Oil (Skincare Oil)

Pros:

I have noticed great improvement with my acne and my lingering stretch marks from my son. I was a bit skeptical about putting Bio-oil on my face because I have very sensitive skin, but after the first application I already noticed that my skin looked fresher and more even. As far as my stretch marks go, it has only been 3 1/2 weeks using Bio-oil and they are already disappearing.

Cons:

The package is very small. I have to buy a new bottle every 2 weeks and it would be nice if I only had to buy a bottle once a month.

This is a great product and I would recommend it to all my friends, in fact I already have. Thanks Bio-oil!
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April 15, 2012
Product used: Mother of Pearl (Anti-Scar Cream)

Pros:

#1 cream i had more acne than any one and cleared up blackheads and acne from face

Cons:

it just made my face dry for a day

believe in this cream for better than proactive clean and clear and any other dumb facial
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April 13, 2012
Product used: Origins (Brighter By Nature)

Pros:

REALLY helps with post acne scars
Non-irritating
Contains SPF

Cons:

Expensive

Hands down, the biggest stress once the stress of acne is gone is getting rid of the marks they leave behind. This product does that job wonderfully. Its great for all skin types (even sensitive - no fragrances or parabens or alcohols) and contains SPF 30, which also helps with the marks. It is a bit on the pricy side, but in my opinion well worth it - its a great company to support as well, as they promote using no parabens, alcohols, or added fragrance to ANY of their products.
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March 16, 2012
Product used: Bio-Oil (Skincare Oil)

Pros:

clearer skin
less acne
less dark spots on my arms and legs, they were lightened
my skin glows
got rid of patches of dry skin on my face
I look prettier.
Evened out my skin tone
regulated oil

Cons:

it is expensive in the United States

I get acne on my face, arms and back. I never wore short sleeves....I have to say that the marks have lightened up. BioOil is amazing. I will never stop using it!
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March 13, 2012
Product used: Emu Oil

Pros:

Softens skin, evens skin tone, diminishes scars, and shrinks pimples

Amazing. Anti-inflammatory properties shrink existing pimples while conditioning the skin resulting in decreased scarring. Bought mine on eBay (triple refined). Quality ranges so go big to make sure you get a good product.
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March 2, 2012
Product used: Emu Oil

Pros:

Leaves your skin soft
Absorbs quickly
Anti inflamatory
Multiple uses

Cons:

Can clog pores and smell depending on the brand/seller

I recently bought myself a 1 oz bottle of triple refined emu oil from a power seller off of Ebay after a few weeks of research. My acne has subsided quite a lot, with the occasional flare ups but I have a lot of scars left to heal as I have a bad tendency to pick at any imperfection. So far I'm impressed with how this product reduces the red marks left from acne and helps to heal my skin. I recently went back to using Retin A Micro which I had a hard time continuing previously due to all the irritation. Right now, I put the retin on my face, wait 20 mins then apply Emu Oil. It's really helped reduce the redness and flakeyness PLUS it helps bring the medication deeper into my skin. Very happy with the results so far, I think the combo has finally become a staple to my routine :) Be careful when you decide to purchase this stuff though. Buy through a reputable seller and you'll be happy.
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Relevant Forum(s):

Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.
Find a Doctor Using The American Acacemy of Dermatology Website

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.
Find a Doctor Using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website