Acne scars become more visible when factors like sun exposure, aging, and certain skin reactions break down collagen, darken pigmentation, or highlight skin texture changes. These scars start from deep acne inflammation that disrupts normal healing, but everyday habits and time can make them stand out even more.
Scars form after severe acne, like cysts or nodules, damages deep skin layers. The body rushes to repair the area by making collagen, the protein that keeps skin firm and smooth. If too little collagen forms, the skin stays indented, creating pits or waves. Over time, these marks can fade a bit, but several things make them pop again.
Sunlight is a big culprit. Ultraviolet rays from the sun break down collagen and elastin, the stretchy fibers in skin. This makes depressed scars look deeper and sharper. Sun also triggers more melanin, the pigment that colors skin, turning flat marks into dark spots that stand out against pale areas.[8]
Aging plays a role too. As years pass, skin naturally loses collagen and elastin. This thinning makes old acne pits more obvious, especially rolling scars that create wavy dips. What once blended in now shows as uneven texture when skin sags or firms less.[2][5]
Picking at pimples worsens the problem from the start and keeps scars visible longer. Squeezing drives bacteria deeper, ramps up inflammation, and destroys more tissue. This leads to bigger scars that heal poorly and stay noticeable.[1]
Heat and activity can highlight red marks from healing acne. These come from tiny blood vessels under the skin that dilate in warm weather or after exercise, making pink or red spots glow brighter.[3]
Genetics influence how scars behave over time. Some people heal with less collagen naturally, so their scars deepen or darken easier. Delaying acne treatment lets inflammation linger, locking in worse scars that show up more later.[1][2]
Habits like skipping sunscreen or not moisturizing speed up these changes. Protecting skin from sun and supporting collagen helps keep scars less visible day to day.
Sources
https://liniaskinclinic.com/ice-pick-scars/
https://www.sanctuaryskinvb.com/post/the-truth-about-acne-scars-treatments-that-work-and-why
https://drhaach.com/treatments/acne-scars/
https://www.kins-clinic.com/blogs/acne-marks-or-acne-scars-understanding-the-difference-and-management-options
https://slmdskincare.com/blogs/learn/the-5-kinds-of-acne-scars-how-to-treat-each-type
https://www.mesoestetic.com/blog/acne-scars/
https://www.pristyncare.com/consult/acne-scars-for-years-is-complete-skin-clearance-possible/
https://www.aesthetispa.com/blog/3-things-making-your-acne-scars-worse-and-what-you-can-do-about-it/
https://dentalandfacialclinic.com.au/acne-scars-need-professional-care/
