Dealing with acne during your teenage years can be challenging. It’s not just the breakouts that are hard to handle; it’s also the impact on your confidence and self-esteem. Unfortunately, many people‘s battles don’t end with the acne itself. Even after the blemishes on the face disappear, they often leave behind lasting reminders: small holes on face, depressions, and uneven skin texture that can stick around into adulthood.

These acne scars, often referred to as “acne holes” and medically known as atrophic scars, can give the skin a rough and pitted appearance. They occur when severe acne damages the deeper layers of the skin, hindering its ability to heal properly. If you have ever been curious about why these holes on the face develop, how to treat them, and what steps you can take to prevent them, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about acne holes on the face—what causes them, the most effective medical treatments to smooth them out, and expert skincare tips to keep your skin clear and healthy. Let’s dive in and discover the best ways to restore your skin’s natural texture and boost your confidence!

Must Read: Everything You Need to Know About Scar Treatment and Healing

What are Acne Holes on Face: Formation of Face Skin Holes

Acne scars or holes on the face form when inflamed acne lesions, like cysts or nodules, penetrate deeply into the skin, damaging the surrounding tissue. When the skin’s natural healing process is interrupted, especially during intense breakouts, it can lead to a shortage of collagen and elastin, resulting in depressed or pitted scars. This deficiency weakens the skin’s structure, leaving behind depressions or holes in the facial skin.

• The Inflammatory Force: The severity of the initial acne lesion is crucial. Deeper inflammation harms the dermis, the skin’s middle layer, resulting in more noticeable scarring.
• Collagen and Elastin Deficit: These proteins are essential for skin support and elasticity. When they are damaged, the skin has difficulty regenerating properly, leading to depression.
• Post-Inflammatory Atrophy: This term refers to the loss of tissue that causes these indentations.
• Picking and Squeezing: Manipulating acne lesions can undoubtedly worsen inflammation and heighten the risk of scarring, particularly the development of small holes on the face.

Types of Face Skin Holes—Atrophic Acne Scars

Acne scars come in various shapes, depths, and severities. Understanding its type is crucial for determining the most effective treatment. Below are the types of face skin holes based on their appearance.

• Ice-Pick Scars: These scars are deep and narrow, resembling tiny punctures or enlarged pores. They penetrate the deeper layers of the skin (2 mm deep), making them particularly difficult to treat. Ice pick scars depth often requires advanced treatment to enhance skin texture.

Must Read: Pits on Face? Discover The Best Ice Pick Scars Treatment Options

• Rolling Scars: Rolling scars create a wave-like or uneven texture on the skin due to fibrous bands that pull down on the surface. While they tend to be shallow, they can cover a large area, giving the skin a rough appearance.
• Boxcar Scars: These scars are characterized by sharp, well-defined edges and are typically round or oval-shaped, resulting in visible depressions in the skin. Their depth can vary.
• Hypertrophic & Keloid Scars: In contrast to other acne scars – holes on the face that create depressions—These scars form when excessive collagen production occurs during the healing process. Hypertrophic scars remain confined to the acne site, while keloid scars extend beyond the original area, becoming thick and prominent.

Identifying the type of holes on your face is the first step toward selecting the right treatment for achieving smoother, healthier skin.

How to remove small holes on face?

There are several treatments to enhance the appearance of small acne holes on the face, ranging from advanced dermatological treatments to over-the-counter skin products. However, because each skin type varies, it’s essential to consult an experienced dermatologist to identify the best treatment for your particular scars.

Here is a list of some advanced treatment solutions to reduce the appearance of small holes on the face.

Advanced Treatment Options for Holes on Face

Advancements in dermatology have introduced several treatment options to reduce or eliminate small acne holes on the face effectively. The choice of treatment depends on the scar type, skin type, severity of the acne hole on the face, and individual preferences. Below is the list of treatments offered at Evenly Clinic to reduce the appearance of acne holes on the face:

Laser Resurfacing (Fractional CO2 Laser) for Acne Face Holes

Laser resurfacing, especially fractional CO2 laser treatment, stands out as one of the most effective methods for minimizing small holes on the face caused by acne. This advanced dermatological treatment removes damaged outer skin layers while stimulating collagen production, which encourages the growth of fresh, healthy skin.

How Does Laser Resurfacing Work?

The laser treatment focuses on scarred areas, breaking down damaged tissue, and promoting skin regeneration. This process helps to:

• Decrease the depth of acne holes
• Improve skin texture and firmness.
• Lighten discoloration, including pink or purple scars.
• Smooth out raised scars for a more even appearance.

Additionally, laser resurfacing treatment is also beneficial for reducing burn scars and surgical scars and treating hyperpigmentation and sun damage.

To achieve optimal results, multiple sessions are required, depending on the severity of the acne holes. Since laser treatments involve resurfacing the skin, it’s crucial to adhere to post-treatment care, including sun protection and moisturization, to avoid complications and ensure proper healing.

MNRF (Microneedling Radiofrequency)

MNRF treatment is another advanced treatment solution to address acne holes on the face. It combines the benefits of microneedling by creating microinjuries in the skin that trigger collagen production and radiofrequency to penetrate deeper into the skin. It is very effective in improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of boxcars and rolling scars.

Chemical Peel Treatment for Holes on Face

Chemical peels are a popular option for treating acne scars as they help to resurface the skin, enhance collagen production, and improve overall texture. By using a chemical solution, the outer layers of the skin are exfoliated, allowing fresh, healthier skin to come to the surface.

Types of Chemical Peels:

• Superficial Peels – Gentle exfoliation for mild scars
• Medium Peels – More intensive treatment for moderate scars
• Deep Peels – Comprehensive approach for severe scars

TCA Cross Peel for Ice-Pick Scars:

This method involves applying a high concentration of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) directly to the deep scars, which stimulates collagen production and helps to fill in the acne holes.

Dermal Fillers for Small Holes on Face

Dermal fillers, commonly used for wrinkles and face contouring, also help restore the lost volume and smooth out skin texture. At Evenly, our dermatologists use hyaluronic acid fillers to add volume to the larger holes of the skin, making it even. This treatment is best for rolling scars and depressed scars. As they are temporary, regular touch-ups are required to maintain the results. For long-term results, combining other treatments like laser resurfacing or microneedling helps enhance its effectiveness.

Intralesional Injections for Hypertrophic Acne Scars

To effectively treat hypertrophic acne scars, our expert dermatologists use intralesional injections.

How to Prevent Acne Holes on face and Scarring

Preventing tiny holes on the face begins with effective acne management and skincare practices. Consider the following tips:

• Treat Acne Early: The most effective way to prevent scarring is to address acne before it aggravates. Begin treatment as soon as breakouts occur and consult a dermatologist for professional advice.
• Use Spot Treatments Right Away: At the first sign of a pimple, apply a spot treatment with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide to minimize inflammation and prevent deeper scars.
• Avoid Picking or Squeezing Pimples: Popping pimples pushes bacteria deeper into the skin, causing inflammation and potential scarring. Allow pimples to heal on their own or seek professional extraction.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps eliminate toxins and keeps your skin clear. Adding lemon slices can enhance vitamin C intake, which supports collagen production and helps reduce scarring.
• Choose the Right Skincare Products: Opt for a gentle cleanser, oil-free moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect acne-prone skin and prevent irritation that could lead to scars.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking limits blood flow and decreases oxygen levels in the skin, hindering healing and increasing the likelihood of scarring. Quitting can greatly enhance skin regeneration.

By following these guidelines, you can maintain clear skin and lower the chances of developing acne holes and scars.

Expert Tips for Clear Skin

Achieving and maintaining clear skin requires a combination of a healthy lifestyle and good skincare. Here is what you need to do:

• Improve your diet by indulging in fresh fruits, vegetables, and a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Wash your face twice daily to remove the accumulation of dirt, oil, and bacteria on the facial skin.
• Moisturize after cleansing to keep your skin soft and prevent dryness.
• Opt for gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or salicylic acid to avoid irritation.
• Protect your skin from the sun by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen.
• Eat omega-3-rich foods to keep your skin supple and glowing.
• Manage stress by doing deep breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, and many others.

Why choose Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic for addressing acne holes on Face

At Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic, we are committed to providing exceptional aesthetic treatments that cater to your individual skincare and hair care needs. Our skilled dermatologists blend their extensive experience with the latest technology to offer safe, effective, and personalized solutions for all your concerns.

Visit Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic to discover our diverse range of treatments aimed at revitalizing your skin and boosting your confidence.

With tailored treatment plans, advanced FDA-approved technology, and a focus on patient care, we strive to ensure you receive the highest quality care for achieving healthy, radiant skin and beautiful hair.

Achieve Clearer, Healthier Skin with Expert Care

Acne scars, including deep pimple holes on the face, can be frustrating to deal with, but effective treatments are available. From microneedling to chemical peels and dermal fillers, there are multiple treatment options to improve skin texture and reduce the holes on the face. The best part is to take preventive steps to avoid the occurrence and severity of acne. We recommend consulting an experienced dermatologist who creates a customized treatment plan that delivers optimal results.

For health-related information, follow us on Instagram!!

Frequently Asked Questions

We hope this information is helpful. If you have any skin and hair-related questions or would like to discuss personalized solutions, please reach out to us at 7337899030. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your unique needs. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you by scheduling a consultation with us today. Your journey to vibrant skin and stronger hair begins here.