Vitamin C
Oh, vitamin C — truly one of skin care's greatest hits. It's an antioxidant that helps protect and repair skin, while also stimulating collagen production and brightening dark spots. That said, it's a miracle worker when it comes to acne scars. We recommend the Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum, $85, if you're looking for a fast-acting vitamin C-packed product.
Oatmeal Mask
Oatmeal is a gentle exfoliant and exfoliation is key when it comes to eradicating old acne scars and hyperpigmentation. Plus, it absorbs oil and soothes your skin without hurting your skin or drying it out. Just mix two tablespoons of your oatmeal with a tablespoon of baking soda and water, and you've got a real treat for your skin. You can also nab a pre-made oatmeal mask, such as the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask, $24, if you're more in a hurry.
Honey Mask
Here's another acne remedy you can probably find in your kitchen! Honey is actually a well-loved folk remedy for acne, due to its natural antimicrobial properties. it also helps heal mild acne and disinfect the skin. Just apply a simple honey mask every week to help keep your skin extra clear. And if you're not feeling up to DIY-ing it, the Farmacy Honey Potion Renewing Antioxidant Hydration Mask, $56, is a great pick.
Retinol
Products with retinol are great at unclogging pores and speeding up cell turnover, which makes it a very effective treatment for both breakouts and post-breakout scarring. It's also great for increasing collagen production and smoothing out uneven texture, so you really can't go wrong with the stuff. A serum like SkinMedica Retinol Complex 0.5, $62.40, is a great place to start, since it helps enhance your skin tone, texture and diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Microneedling
Microneedling involves the use of dermarollers, which puncture the skin with tiny needles. This process involves making small injuries to the skin to increase collagen and elastin production as your acne heals. Microneedling helps improve the appearance of your skin and reduces the appearance of acne scars and wrinkles. Make sure to consult with a professional before you microneedle, however, since you run the risk of over-treating yourself if you're not careful. If you're looking to give it a try, the Linduray Skincare Derma Roller Microneedling Kit, $19.97, is an easy-to-use dermaroller that also happens to be a pretty good deal.
