How to Fix Acne Scars and Holes on Face: Science-Backed Tips

Published September 9, 2023

Dealing with acne in your teenage years is a nightmare. No one wishes it on anyone, as it can shatter confidence and self-esteem. It helps that we extend compassion to those who suffer it. Further, knowing that it is outside their control that they deal with this skin battle. 

The acne and breakouts in these teenage years can persist in adulthood. Not in the form of bumps, redness, and irritation, but scarring. They often leave holes in faces. All of which look like depressions on the skin surface. 

In this article, we’ll shed light. We’ll discuss everything you need to know about acne scars and holes in the face. What is it, what causes it, what effective treatments, and prevention. Also, we’ll discuss expert tips for keeping clear and smooth skin. Let’s waste no more time and get started.

Holes in Face: Why Do I Have Little Holes in My Face?

There are two main kinds of small holes on the skin of your face. Fine skin pores and holes as a result of scarring from acne. The first one is attached to the oil glands. The latter is more severe as they manifest when the far-down layers of the skin become damaged. 

1. Fine Skin Pores 

These are skin pores. They are small openings in the skin. The skin releases oil and sweat through them. They are connected to your hair follicle. 

The hair follicle contains the sebaceous gland. When this gland secret oils, it rises to the top. It settles inside the pore. 

In most cases, these pores are relatively tiny. You won’t notice them. However, they enlarge because of: 

• Excessive oil production. 
• Decreased elasticity. It comes with age. Decreased elasticity makes these holes larger and more prominent. 
• Clogged pores. When oil collects in our pores, together with dirt and grime, it blocks them. They cause it to stretch and make it bigger than it used to be. 

It is important to remember that enlarged pores are not a health concern. It will not damage your skin. 

2. Acne Holes 

When oil glands become overactive, they release more sebum than usual. As a result, the skin pores get colonized. They become infected with bacteria, dead cells, and dirt. It leads to clogging of the pores. It becomes filled with infection and inflammation. It causes the formation of pus-filled acne. The acne penetrates far inside the layers of the skin. 

When the healing takes over, there is stimulation of blood vessels. In it, a release of various growth factors happen. It is because of inflammation. It triggers the process of collagen production and breakdown. After, it leaves a depression called acne scars and holes.

Holes in the Face Causes

Acne scars are blemishes with a concave shape. Because of the shape, it gives the illusion of looking like holes and indentations in the skin. 

1. Acne 
2. Infectious diseases. Infectious diseases, such as smallpox, can commonly cause face scarring. Although smallpox has disappeared chiefly, chicken pox may also cause the characteristic scars. Chicken Pox causes small, itchy blisters all over the body. Scratching the scabs before they fully heal can leave holes. 
3. Other infections. Other infections, such as those from bacteria staphylococcus or streptococcus, may cause wounds. These wounds, with time, can leave scarring. 

Holes in Face From Acne: Different Types 

There is a dissimilarity in the size of acne scars. Yet, dermatologists categorized them based on their appearance. Acne scar holes are of the following kinds: 

1. Ice-pick scars- These appear like pinpricks. They set deep into the skin. They are 2mm deep and are conical. 
2. Rolling scars- They have gentle, sloping edges. They make the skin appear undulated. 
3. Boxcar scars- These are acne holes with sharp edges. 
4. Keloid or hypertrophic scars- They are raised acne scars. 

How to Get Rid of Acne Scars and Holes in Face

Plenty of over-the-counter products can improve a scar’s texture, color, and appearance. However, there’s no real way of getting rid of acne scars naturally at home. Professional treatments are needed to treat them effectively. We’ll talk more about them later. 

The over-the-counter products you must shop for if you are struggling with acne scars and holes: 

1. Alpha hydroxy acids
2. Lactic acids
3. Retinoids 
4. Salicylic acids 

Professional Treatments for Face Scarring and Holes

It is best to consult a high-quality, experienced and top-rated medical spa. It is effective as the people behind it will first focus on controlling your acne. The fewer breakouts you have, the fewer the chances for scarring. The great news is that not all acne scars are permanent. 

Here are the top treatment options that rid the acne scars and holes for good: 

1. Laser resurfacing 

Laser resurfacing is an excellent procedure. It works for diminishing holes in the face. Vascular-specific lasers target blood vessels. They help lighten flat or raised scars that are pink or purple. They assist to flatten raised scars. Experts often use fractional or carbon dioxide lasers to heal acne scars. 

Laser treatments aren’t just for acne, too. They can be employed on other types of scarring. These can include burns and skin cancer. They also help tattoo removal.

2. Chemical peels 

Chemical peel. It is a treatment for applying a chemical solution to your skin. It causes it to blister and eventually peel off. As a result, you’re greeted with smoother new, regenerated skin. One far better than the old one. 

It is a cost-effective acne scar treatment. It works well. You’ll usually need only one treatment session for you to see improvements. But lasers are more precise.

3. Microneedling 

Microneedling. It is a collagen induction therapy. It uses a fine needle roller or pen device. The device crafts tiny holes in the skin. It stimulates collagen production. Collagen production is fantastic for bettering fine lines and skin textures.

4. Punch excision 

If you’re struggling with a pitted scar that won’t heal well with standard treatment, this one’s for you. Punch excisions are done where the whole scar and hair follicle are removed. It is before resurfacing. 

A round tool is used to remove it altogether. Then, skin sutures are used to close the area. What’s left then is a smaller, flatter scar that fades as time passes. 

5. Subcision 

Subcision. It is a procedure that involves releasing a scar that’s attached to a muscle. Also, on deeper tissue. It calls for a surgical probe that brings deeper scars to the surface. It is helpful before any lasers or peels. It enhances the scar’s response to them.

6. Fillers 

Fillers, aside from treating wrinkles, can also better sunken acne scars. Hyaluronic acid fillers help plump the skin and smooth out any sunken areas. Collagen fillers, on the other hand, lift acne scars and add volume. 

Sculptra, which is a poly-L-lactic acid filler, is impressive, too. It stimulates collagen production to raise any recessed acne scars. 

7. Dermabrasion 

Like laser resurfacing, dermabrasion employs a unique tool that makes friction. The friction works to remove the skin’s top layer. It can be compared to a gentle sander that smooths the skin. 

Once the top layer of the skin is gone, a moist dressing will be laid to help it heal.

Microdermabrasion is similar to it but typically involves multiple treatments with a shorter recovery process. Also, it doesn’t go as deep or leave as permanent a change. 

8. Steroid injections 

Finally, steroid injections will support you by flattening raised acne scars. 

Prevention of Acne Scars

There are ways you can never see holes in your face any further. Acne scars can be prevented by doing the following: 

1. Treat acne early to avoid scarring. 

The first step to safeguard against scarring is to get your acne under control. Use appropriate treatment for it. The earlier you begin doing so, the less chance of any skin damage. Also, scarring. Consult a dermatologist to discuss your skin. In addition to ruling its proper course of action. 

2. Use an on-the-spot treatment for other pimples. 

As soon as you feel a pimple forming, apply a spot treatment. It is effective. Look for those that contain acne-fighting ingredients. These are salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or sulfur. 

3. Refrain from picking or squeezing your breakouts. 

Picking or squeezing will only introduce more inflammation and injury to the area. It will also push pus and other bacteria deeper into the skin. Thus making scars. 

4. Drink plenty of water to cleanse toxins present in the body. 

Water helps to detoxify the body. It also sheds dead skin cells. Staying hydrated is a simple yet wholesome way to reduce future acne and scarring. 

For an added boost, you can add slices of lemon to your water. Lemons are rich in citric acid. It keeps your body and skin healthy. The vitamin C in it also has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It also encourages collagen production. All that aids in preventing acne and scarring. 

5. Apply the right skincare products for your acne-prone skin. 

Employ a suitable cleanser, a good sunscreen, and a non-comedogenic moisturizer. 

6. Stop smoking 

Smoking narrows blood vessels and depletes oxygen from the skin. It is notorious for slowing down the healing process. It exacerbates scarring. It’s vital to quit it to boost your body’s healing regime and be fully capable. 

Expert Tips for Clear and Smooth Skin

To sustain a clear and smooth skin, do the following: 

1. Make dietary changes 

The American Academy of Dermatology promotes maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. It is for healthy skin. A diet full of mineral and nutrient-rich foods will promote healthy and fresh skin. It will also prevent skin damage. Thus, incorporate foods that are high in antioxidants.

2. Wash your face twice a day. 

All types of gross stuff can build up on your skin during a regular day. They can clog your pores and trigger irritation. To combat it, wash your face in the morning and at night. 

3. Moisturize after you wash it. 

Washing can dry out your face. Always follow through with a gentle moisturizer. It will help maintain a fresh and dewy glow. It will also decrease fine lines. Further, it prevents inflammation and breakouts. 

4. Exfoliate a few times a week. 

Occasional exfoliation helps. It can even out your skin. Also, it lessens roughness and blemishes. Many dermatologists recommend chemical exfoliants. These are gentler on your skin. You can opt for lactic acid. If not, salicylic acid.

5. Protect your skin from the sun. 

Exposure to the sun can damage your skin over time. It will make for faster aging. Apply daily sun protection with an SPF of at least 30. 

6. Nourish your skin by eating omega-3 fatty acids. 

Your skin needs good fats. They maintain its natural glow. Foods high in omega fatty acids are particularly impressive for nourishment. Add salmon, mackerel, sardines and tuna to your meals. Also, walnuts, flaxseed, and tofu in your diet. You’ll be surprised how they clear, freshen, rejuvenate, and smooth your skin. 

7. Do stress-relieving activities 

Stress can make you break out more often. To alleviate this, try yoga, exercise, and meditation. One quick trick is taking a moment each day for deep breathing. You can also work on hobbies that you love. Listen to relaxing music. Also, spend time with your loved ones.