Acne Scars vs Hyperpigmentation
Acne and hyperpigmentation are two conditions everyone wishes to avoid—both can linger like unwanted guests. Acne occurs when bacteria infect the pores, while hyperpigmentation develops from excess melanin production. Some people can manage both concerns with the same routine, while others require more tailored solutions. Here’s what you need to know about each.
Difference Between Acne Scars and Dark Spots
Acne scarring and hyperpigmentation are common—but different. Acne scars are changes in skin texture, while hyperpigmentation appears as dark spots. Acne scars are usually lighter-toned or indented, whereas hyperpigmentation shows up as darker patches on the skin.
What Are Acne Scars?
Acne scars form when deep blemishes or picked pimples damage deeper layers of the skin. When inflammation disrupts collagen production, skin may heal with indentations or raised bumps.
Types of Acne Scars:
- Rolling Scars: Caused by fibrous bands under the skin, creating a rolling, uneven appearance.
- Keloid Scars: Raised, enlarged scars that can grow beyond the original injury site.
- Ice Pick Scars: Deep, narrow, pitted scars that look like tiny punctures.
- Acne Pigment: Shallow scars with sharp edges. Acne may also leave behind dark spots or redness (post-inflammatory pigment).
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation happens when excess melanin forms in a localized area. Light-skinned individuals often notice freckles or dark spots on the face and arms, while medium-to-deep skin tones may see pigmentation on the forehead, neck, or areas of inflammation.
Some dark spots fade naturally over time. How fast they fade depends on the cause and your skin type. There are many brightening solutions designed to improve different types of pigmentation.
Learn more about hyperpigmentation:
- Hyperpigmentation vs Freckles
- Best Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation
- Does Exfoliating Help?
- Why You Need a Correcting Serum
Are Hyperpigmentation Scars Permanent?
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) appears after inflammation heals. While PIH can last months or even years, it typically improves over time. It does not affect skin structure the way acne scars do.
What Not To Do: Acne Scars
Avoid picking or scratching blemishes, which worsens scarring. Protect your skin from UV damage to prevent darkening of existing marks, and maintain a consistent skincare routine to support healing.
What Not To Do: Hyperpigmentation
Dark spots may stem from irritation, inflammation, or hormonal triggers. Avoid over-exfoliation or harsh treatments that worsen pigmentation. Instead, use dermatologist-approved creams or brightening serums with ingredients like niacinamide or alpha arbutin.
Our Pick:
SHOP DARK SPOT CORRECTING SERUM
How To Get Rid of PIH: Ingredient Guide
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
Chemical exfoliants like glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acid help dissolve dead skin cells and brighten tone. PHAs offer a gentler alternative that exfoliate with less irritation.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for brightening dark spots. It boosts collagen, brightens tone, breaks down pigmentation, and prevents new dark spots from forming.
Retinol / Retinoids / Tretinoin
Retinoids increase cell turnover, fading hyperpigmentation and improving texture. Prescription-strength tretinoin is more potent, while over-the-counter retinol provides steady improvement.
A great option is the Depology Anti-Aging Retinol Night Cream.
Bottom Line: Are Dark Spots the Same as Acne Scars?
Although acne scars and hyperpigmentation often appear together, they are not the same. The best treatment depends on your skin type, severity, and underlying causes. When in doubt, consult a skincare professional.
Depology Skincare offers targeted serums and treatments designed to fade dark spots, brighten skin, and reduce acne scarring for a more even tone.
