Red vs brown acne marks: do they really need different care?

Almost everyone has wondered about the marks acne leaves behind. Here's how communities commonly tell them apart and what they suggest.

Red marks (often called PIE)

• Described as redness from a blood-vessel response after inflammation
• Many say if the color fades briefly when you press gently, it's likely a red mark
• Common advice: cut irritation and focus on soothing and hydration

Brown marks (PIH, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)

• Color left by extra melanin after inflammation
• Usually doesn't change much when pressed
• Sunscreen comes up constantly, along with ingredients like niacinamide and azelaic acid

Advice that applies to both

• First rule: don't pick or squeeze
• Accept that marks take a while to fade
• If they last a long time or come with indented scars, see a dermatologist

Self-checks are only a rough guide, so a professional opinion is best for an accurate call.

Which bothers you more, red or brown marks? And what has helped you?

#AcneMarks #PIH #AcneCare #DarkSpots